From Airplanes to Engines: Inland Lakes Students Discover Career Pathways

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Students listen to Gaylord Airport staff present while standing in front of a white-and-red prop plane on a runway under a bright blue sky.

May 5, 2026 - Thirteen students from Inland Lakes School recently participated in a pair of Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium Talent Tours in Gaylord, giving them the opportunity to explore careers in both the aviation and automotive industries. The tours provided students with a behind-the-scenes look at a variety of career paths while connecting classroom learning to real-world applications.

The day began at Gaylord Regional Airport, where students learned about the many careers that keep airport operations running safely and efficiently. Stops included North Country Aviation, where students met with aviation mechanics, and Guardian Flight, where they learned about emergency medical transport services and the highly trained pilots, nurses, and paramedics who provide critical care in the air. Students also toured the airport maintenance facility, met with the airport director, and learned about aerial firefighting operations from the Fire Boss crew. One of the highlights was the opportunity to climb inside aircraft and see aviation careers up close.

Northern Performance staff talk to students while standing around a car on a dyno in a red-walled garage, with tools and a red blower.

Students then visited Northern Performance Cars, where they explored careers in automotive technology and performance mechanics. They learned about vehicle diagnostics, engine performance, and the technology used to modify and enhance vehicles. During the tour, students observed a vehicle on a Dynojet machine and witnessed a new shop record being set, providing an exciting firsthand look at high-performance automotive work. They also had the opportunity to view vehicles from underneath and learn about the problem-solving skills required to diagnose and repair complex mechanical issues.

Throughout both tours, students learned about the education, training, and experience required for a wide range of occupations, from entry-level positions to highly specialized careers. The experience highlighted how passion, persistence, and technical skills can open doors to rewarding career opportunities in Northeast Michigan and beyond.