Engineering the Future: AVI’s Internship Program in Action
Interns Niles Alexis & Troy Anderson, pictured with mentor Alberto Garcia (left), and during live training with an AVI technician Lorisa Gomez(right).
At AVI Aviation Inflatables and AVI Survival Products, we’re proud to spotlight the meaningful contributions of our current Engineering interns and the mentorship driving their growth. Under the guidance of Engineering Manager Alberto Garcia, this internship experience bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world application—right here on our production floor.
Real Projects with Real Impact
Interns Niles Alexis and Troy Anderson are currently working on a complex 3D model using SolidWorks Computer Aided Design (CAD) software. Their design will be fabricated and used to pack an emergency slide designed to function on a widely operated Airbus commercial aircraft. From day one, they’ve been immersed in hands-on, high-impact work directly tied to AVI’s operations.
Mentorship That Makes a Difference
“Both Niles and Troy have been extremely agile and accommodating,” says Garcia. “They’ve already shown their ability to adapt to sudden production challenges—a critical skill that will serve them well in their future careers.”
Building a Strong Aviation FoundationEarly in their internship, they completed basic Aviation MRO training, focusing on general safety, handling hazardous materials, identifying suspected unapproved parts, and preventing foreign object damage. These sessions provided a solid foundation in aviation standards and terminology, preparing them to navigate the industry's complexities effectively.
Learning the Full Lifecycle of Engineering Design
One of the most unique aspects of the AVI internship is the opportunity to see a complete product life cycle in action. “I want them to understand how engineering design fits into the bigger picture of large-scale production,” Garcia explains. “At AVI, interns can follow their designs from a hand-sketched concept through fabrication, testing, and validation—all under one roof.”
Shaping the Industry’s Future Talent
As the internship continues through August, AVI remains committed to fostering innovation and developing top talent. “Fresh minds bring new energy, ideas, and tools to our team,” Garcia adds. “It’s a mutually beneficial experience that strengthens both our internal capabilities and the future of the aviation industry.”
Stay Tuned
We’ll continue to share updates as Niles and Troy progress in their internship journey. Their story is just one example of how AVI is investing in people, process, and the future of aerospace engineering.
About AVI, an FCAH Aerospace Company
AVI, an FCAH Aerospace brand, provides comprehensive, cost-saving solutions for survival products, inflatables, and accessories through our divisions, which include Aviation Inflatables, AVI-Survival Products, and AVI-Accessories. Our portfolio of services encompasses solutions that support commercial & regional airlines, government & military enterprises, helicopters, & general aviation.