the passion

The Legacy Aviation Learning Center became possible when three pilots and general aviation enthusiasts invested $1.5 million in a once-in-a-lifetime property bordering Cherry Capital Airport in the Spring of 2022. Their passion for reviving general aviation and desire to provide opportunities to aspiring youth drove them to purchase the Delta-Two Hangar and attached 4,600 sq. ft. office building. 

  • Dan and Peg Jonkhoff: Visionary, investor, co-owner. Member of TVC Airport Authority. EAA member. Pilot and aircraft owner.

  • Matt and Lauren Golba: Visionary, investor, co-owner, pilot and aircraft owner.

  • Bryan Linck: Airline Pilot, former educator/non-profit COO with a passion for youth, aviation careers, community-building. Aircraft Owner. 

The Founders' foresight and in-depth understanding of the impact of this projected shortage of aircraft mechanics and technicians in the industry compelled them to aspire to create a world-class aircraft maintenance technician school, Legacy Aviation Learning Center.

the pARTNERSHIPS

Sustaining the AMT workforce is a shared investment that helps future generations achieve their potential. By aligning with local educational partners, we want to ignite interest in aviation careers and create pathways to economic stability. Collaborations include:

  • We are partnering with K-12 STEM programs within northern Michigan schools will provide a broad base of students with tech-forward opportunities for exploration.

  • Our partnership with Northwest Education Services (North Ed) Career Tech, a career and technical educational school that serves over 20 high schools in the region, will introduce students to the opportunities available. As a regional leader in trades training, North Ed equips students with opportunities for postsecondary placement or higher education. Our engagement in their Aviation Maintenance Program will provide approximately 50 students in grades 11 and 12 with the general prerequisite modules of the airframe and powerplant (A&P) certification as AMTs.

  • Our sponsorship of the U.S. Air Force Auxiliary Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program helps us transform local youth into leaders who are motivated to pursue aerospace careers.

  • Our sponsorship of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Young Eagles Program will introduce hundreds of youth per year to the joys of flight. By providing discovery flights in Traverse City and the surrounding region, Legacy Aviation will inspire youth to explore the career opportunities available.