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- Hangar/Training Area: 15,336 square feet for hands-on aircraft maintenance training.
- Classrooms and Offices: 16,954 square feet with 10 classrooms, a library, break rooms, a cafeteria, and six private offices.
- Direct Airport Access: Hangar connected to CVG taxiways for easy aircraft movement.
Epic Flight Academy has seven locations across the U.S. including both flight academies and mechanic schools. This new location is Epic’s second mechanic school to open and it is the first to be in such close proximity to a major international airport, providing unique, hands-on experience and access to resources for students.
Epic has seen remarkable growth with its new location, now accommodating 250 students and 25 staff members (at full capacity), and gearing up to launch its third class of aircraft mechanics. The facility not only stands as an example of advanced training but also symbolizes a thriving partnership with the local community.
We had the privilege to connect with several Epic team members, who offered their perspectives on the new mechanic school and its positive impact on both the community and students. Check out their insights in the video below:
Epic’s Mechanic Programs
Epic Flight Academy’s 19-month program prepares students for three Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certifications offering significant employment opportunities at CVG.
These FAA certifications include:
- Airframe Mechanic
- Powerplant Mechanic
- A&P Mechanic
Clark emphasized, “The curriculum that we are teaching is preparing them to become airframe and powerplant mechanics. It doesn’t matter if you’ve had prior experience or no experience. The saying is right: pilots need heroes too, so our motto here is we take you from 0 to hero—even if you’ve never picked up a tool before, it doesn’t matter. We’re going to teach you everything you need to know, and when you’re done with the program, you’re going to take the FAA test and get certified to work on airplanes.”
Our Role & Expertise
Marque Engineering’s contributions to this project encompassed comprehensive MEP engineering services, site lighting, photometrics, and fire protection schematic design.
The mechanical systems include a 40-ton VAV rooftop unit, providing zoned temperature control throughout the office space, ensuring optimal comfort for both staff and students. In the aircraft hangar, five gas-fired unit heaters and two large exhaust fans maintain a comfortable environment in both summer and winter.
On the electrical side, Marque Engineering implemented a new 480V/3Ø and 208V/3Ø power service to meet the facility’s demanding requirements. The site lighting and photometrics achieved an impressive 45% energy savings, underscoring the project’s commitment to efficiency.
To meet stringent safety standards, the plumbing design for the aircraft hangar incorporated emergency eyewash stations, sinks, and utility tubs.
Luck highlighted some additional features: “The way the classrooms were laid out—we have a nice flow now, with restrooms at each end. The HVAC is nicely zoned with different ways to control it through the master panel. The constant circulation of hot water is super cool—something new that we don’t usually have to worry about at our FL campus. The aesthetics look great and fit into the local area.”
He also praised the collaboration involved in the project: “We couldn’t have been happier with the team, just the collaboration together to make the process of the building go so quickly. We were blown away.”
Looking Ahead
Throughout the development of the project, the deep integration of Epic Flight Academy within the local community was evident. From conception to the academy’s current activities, the support and welcome received were exceptional.
John Clark expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “Here at our CVG location, the welcome that we received here has been phenomenal in this area. Everybody has been doing everything they can to get us adjusted to the area, helped us get settled in, and welcomed to the community. I can’t say enough good things about CVG and what they’ve done for the school here.”
John Luck also highlighted the community’s support: “It’s been a lot of fun, a great process, and a great project. To be welcomed so much in Northern Kentucky—what a great place to do business. I’ve never had a welcoming feel in a community quite like this one. It’s a tremendous place to be.”
The enthusiasm and involvement of local partners and residents has created a supportive environment for the academy’s staff and students, demonstrating how a supportive community fosters growth and enhances educational environments.
Luck reflected on the broader impact: “The outpouring from the community has been amazing. Everywhere we go, there’s so much aviation engraved in this community—everyone knows who we are. That’s because of the team and everyone who worked on this project. It shows how the community pulls for the new guy in town, and we’re just so happy.”
How can your next project benefit from the power of community collaboration? Connect with us today, and let’s harness this power to foster growth and innovation.
