MOSES LAKE - Big Bend Community College offers a free three-week class for people who might be interested in an aviation mechanics career starting Oct. 26. Space is limited, so interested people should apply as soon as possible, said organizer Rebecca Milligan.

The only qualification is a desire to explore a possible new career, she said, or to have an already-existing interest in flight. "I just want them to have an interest in aerospace," Milligan commented.

Participants have the choice of a daytime class for three consecutive Fridays or a weeknight class meeting Tuesday and Thursday, Milligan said.

Friday classes will be Oct. 26, Nov. 2 and Nov. 9, with class from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday classes are Oct. 30 and Nov. 1, 5, 8, 13 and 15, from 6 to 9 p.m. "It gives (students) a nice introduction," Milligan said.

Participants will have the chance to work on airframes, both helicopters and fixed wings, and power plants, including jet and propeller-driven, and helicopter engines. Students will be able to get a taste of "what a job in aerospace would actually look like," she said.

Students who complete the class will qualify for a National Career Readiness Certificate, Milligan said. "It's a test for job readiness," and measures skill levels in reading, math and finding information. It's recognized by employers locally and nationally, she said.

People who want more information or who want to register can contact Milligan at the college, 509-793-2576, or at rebeccam@bigbend.edu.