Aviation & Transit

Aviation and transit are essential to connecting Grand Rapids and Kent County to the rest of the world. From airport operations and airline services to public transit and ground transportation, this sector supports both residents and visitors every day.

Careers in this field blend technical expertise with customer service and operational coordination. Entry-level roles can lead to specialized certifications, supervisory positions, and long-term advancement in logistics, maintenance, operations management, or administration.

If you’re detail-oriented, dependable, and thrive in dynamic environments, this pathway offers stability and growth in an industry that never stands still.

Every arrival and departure depends on skilled professionals behind the scenes and there’s space for you to grow within it.

Grow here. Start anywhere.

There's no single runway to success - just multiple way to begin. Find your path.

Entry Points

Gain experience & learn the basics

Ramp Agent
Baggage Handler
Transit Operator
Customer Service

Build Skills

Expand skills & take on more

Aircraft Tech
Avionics Tech
Route Supervisor
Operations Coordinator

Lead & Specialize

Lead & Shape your career

Pilot
Air Traffic Controler
Ops Manager
Transit Director

Start anywhere. Grow everywhere.

The work we do as a team makes a positive difference in travelers’ lives and contributes to the economic vitality of Grand Rapids and West Michigan.

- Ted N., Airport Ambassador, Experience Grand Rapids/Gerald R. Ford International Airport

By the Numbers

$86.7B U.S. Aviation Market (2025) - Projected to reach $105B by 2030 as passenger demand and air freight continue to rise.
11% Annual Growth (Bus Market) - North America’s bus industry is projected to grow more than 11% annually from 2025–2030, fueled by urban growth and sustainability efforts.
$17–$19/hour Starting Roles - Entry-level positions like baggage handling and ramp operations offer accessible starting points while experienced pilots and technical leaders can earn well into six figures.

Career Pathways Quiz

Not sure where to start? Take our Career Match Quiz!

Aviation & Transit in Grand Rapids:

Airport hub

Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) is expanding with a $600M project, creating new opportunities across operations, engineering, IT, marketing, HR, and safety.

Beyond the airport

The Rapid bus system keeps the city moving, with routes across 185 square miles, plus Amtrak and freight rail offer driver, support, and operations roles.

Diverse roles

From airfield staff and mechanics to IT, dispatch, and marketing, there’s a mix of technical and customer-facing careers.

Growing momentum

GRR and local transit continue to invest in infrastructure and innovation, opening pathways for careers in aviation, logistics, and public transportation.

A woman with long brown hair stands in front of a large propeller-driven aircraft in a hangar.

Workforce Development a month ago

A Day in Aviation & Transit with Lizzie Molnar

5 min

Step Away From the Desk Not everyone wants to sit at a desk from 9 to 5 every day. If you’d like more flexibility and freedom in your work, consider a career in hospitality and tourism. There are many…

Aviation & Transit

In the Air: Fly aircraft, support passengers, or ensure safe operations behind the scenes.

On the Ground: Coordinate arrivals and departures, manage baggage, and keep travelers on schedule.

Behind the Controls: Maintain vehicles and aircraft, inspect equipment, and keep systems running safely.

Moving the Community: Drive buses, manage routes, and support public transit operations across the region.

Grow here. Start anywhere.

Entry Points

Build Skills

Lead & Specialize

Start anywhere. Grow everywhere.

By the Numbers

Career Pathways Quiz

Aviation & Transit in Grand Rapids:

A Day in Aviation & Transit with Lizzie Molnar

Pathways

Food & Beverage

Hotel & Lodging

Event Management

Recreation & Entertainment