HAYDEN - Aerospace technology may seem like something from a galaxy far, far away, but it's right here in North Idaho, and many individuals in the community are learning the tricks of the trade.

"Aerospace is just going crazy right now," said Justin VanDerGriend of Coeur d'Alene. "It's a good time to jump in."

VanDerGriend is one of about 40 students enrolled in the aerospace technology program at North Idaho College, where students learn everything from basic safety protocol and aviation science to manufacturing processes associated with polymer composite structures, techniques for Nondestructive Testing (NDT) and ideas behind thermographic theory.

VanDerGriend and several of his colleagues were on site Thursday evening during an open house at the NIC Aerospace Center of Excellence, where the public met students and faculty members, watched demonstrations and inquired about the aerospace industry as a career. Several potential employers and representatives of hiring agencies were also in attendance.

Ricia Lasso, regional business specialist for the Idaho Department of Labor, said the aerospace program is helpful for the job force and she sees its benefits in her own job.

"They've hired people from this program and they started at $3 more an hour than a normal entry-level employee would start because of this training," she said. "Not only does it provide training for current employers, but it's allowing us to expand the cluster within the aerospace industry, so we're going to see this industry grow more in our area."

Professionals and students conducted demonstrations on aircraft sheet metal riveting, vacuum bagging composites with resin and fiberglass wet lay-up and molding. Wayne Cardwell, the program's recruiter coordinator, answered questions and provided information about programs such as aviation maintenance technology, computer numerical controlled (CNC) mill operator and composites materials fabrication and repair. He said the open house was a way for more people to be aware of the program, which began last fall and is already expanding.

"Our course, with composites, CNC and NDT, it gives you three different fields to go after," he said, adding that the program serves the community by giving its students options.

VanDerGriend, who grew up with a dad who worked in aerospace composite structures, said he would recommend anyone interested in the industry try it for a semester.

"Give it a try," he said. "They're going to be introduced to great people with open arms that are going to adjust your level of where you're at and make it fun and engaging for you. Give it a whirl and see where it takes you. You're always going to have work, guaranteed in this field.

"If you have a creative mind and you like to change things or think outside the box more or less, it's a great place for you to be," he added.

Info: www.nic.edu