A&P Training Director Opportunity (Paid Position)
Overview
Disciples Worldwide Aviation exists to equip the next generation of missionary pilot mechanics—individuals who are not only trained aviation professionals but also committed missionaries. Our vision is to reach remote and unreached people groups with the Gospel by using aviation as a powerful tool for access and ministry.
We offer a fully-funded, comprehensive three-year training program that prepares students both spiritually and professionally. The program includes:
- All required flight certifications and experience
- Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certification
- Theological education
- Intentional discipleship training
All of this is offered tuition-free, enabling students to graduate debt-free and fully equipped for the mission field.
Partnership with ABWE
Disciples Worldwide Aviation works in close partnership with the Association of Baptists for World Evangelism (ABWE), a respected missions organization with over a century of experience. While ABWE has long supported mission aviation, its growth has been limited due to a shortage of fully qualified missionary pilot/mechanics. This gap, largely due to the high cost and complexity of aviation training, is one we aim to close.
Disciples Worldwide Aviation was founded by a couple inspired through their son’s journey to become a missionary aviator. After witnessing firsthand the challenges he faced in pursuing his calling, they envisioned a better path for others. In partnership with ABWE, they launched DWA to create a reliable, sustainable pipeline of trained missionary pilots and mechanics.
Unique Program Funding Model
One of the distinctive features of our program is that students are not required to pay out-of-pocket for training or housing. Instead, we utilize a self-sustaining model that includes:
- Purchasing and restoring aircraft through student labor under the guidance of A&P instructors.
- Selling restored planes to fund flight training.
- Donor support to supplement any financial shortfalls.
This model allows us to operate debt-free while offering high-quality training and hands-on experience.
Facilities and Infrastructure
- 5 new one- and two-bedroom cabins for student and staff housing
- 3 RV pads with full hookups for visiting families or volunteers
- 2 on-site airplane hangars, including a 6,000+ sq. ft. A&P training hangar
- 2 off-site airport hangars
- 4 aircraft currently in use for various levels of flight instruction, from private pilot through CFII
Open Position: A&P Training Director
We are currently operating on a small scale with one student and a part-time A&P instructor. By July 1, 2025, we aim to expand to accommodate four full-time A&P students. To achieve this, we are seeking a full-time A&P Training Director.
The ideal candidate will:
- Be an active member of a local church, demonstrating strong Christian character and accountability.
- Be in substantial agreement with our Statement of Faith.
- Possess a passion for missions and a heart to see the Gospel reach the nations.
- Have significant experience maintaining and repairing aircraft commonly used in missions, especially high-wing Cessnas.
- Be capable of leading and mentoring students in both aviation and spiritual growth.
Compensation will be provided and will be determined by mutual agreement.
Location: Cottonwood Canyon Ranch, Wyoming
The Disciples Worlwide Aviation Training Center is located at Cottonwood Canyon Ranch, approximately 17 miles east of Lovell, Wyoming, and about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Cody (the eastern gateway to Yellowstone National Park.)
The ranch spans thousands of acres on the western slopes of the Bighorn Mountains and borders:
- The Yellowtail National Recreation Area
- Big Horn River
- National Forest and BLM lands
This rugged and remote setting provides ideal conditions for mission aviation training, including multiple bush plane landing areas and diverse terrain. Considered by some to be the “Alaska of the Lower 48”, the area offers a unique blend of challenging flying conditions and favorable weather.
Winters bring moderate snow to the lower ranch areas, while higher elevations receive heavier snowfall. Seasonal temperatures vary widely but are made more comfortable by the region’s low humidity.
Contact Information
If you believe God may be calling you to be part of this ministry and you meet the above qualifications, we invite you to connect with us:
Contact: Doug Zook, Executive Director
Phone: (307) 271-1575
Email: doug@dwaviation.org
We would love to hear from you!