The changing scenery for aviation missionaries:
In October of 2003 Interlace conducted a Needs Analysis on the current aviation missionary field in the United States. The survey was carried out from September 26th through October 8th of 2003 and interviewed two-dozen faith based aviation training organizations who represent a significant association of all faith-based aviation missionary training organizations. The research indicated the need to incorporate more significant life skills training that would provide the necessary skill sets for successful missionary/humanitarian work. Feel free to download the Needs Analysis here.
Since 1997 Interlace has provided an environment for individuals seeking to serve as aviation missionaries opportunities to obtain aviation maintenance and flight training (see our Photos link from Mr. Lockwood while on an internship with MAF). With the knowledge we gleaned formalizing the Needs Analysis we started to develop processes to increase our ability to offer real Life Skills training. With the Tribal Consortium we are afforded increased opportunities to provide necessary life skills training that better prepares individuals for missionary and humanitarian service, locally or globally. Interlace will continue to be a support base for individuals seeking advance aviation training but encourage other interested individuals to partner/volunteer as we work to provide needed services to the Native Americans of Northern California.
Our program is comprised of two avenues of training:
Life Skills
Getting rooted in a local church will instill the student with a ministry vision beyond the nuts and bolts of aviation. It will encourage being grounded in the Holy Bible and also allow the student to be sent-out, commissioned, and supported both spiritually and financially, through a larger body of people. Enrolling in courses at local colleges (i.e. Simpson College, Shasta Bible College, and Shasta Community College) will enrich the student with cultural awareness courses, foreign government / history awareness courses, language studies, and Bible and ministry training courses. Providing services that support the Tribal Consortium initiative will provide real-life experience to develop effectively communication, people based promotional skills and cultural sensitivity.
Advanced Aviation Pilot/Maintenance Training
With the Tribal Air objective, there is created opportunities to further develop specialized pilot experience and engage in hands-on work provided through flight aircraft maintenance and potential part-time contract maintenance work.
Prospective trainees, please read our letter to you.
(Updated: October 24th, 2005)
