BNA Launches Innovative Apprenticeship Program

Partnership with the Tennessee College of Applied Technology Murfreesboro/Smyrna to develop workers for skilled-trades professions

NASHVILLE – Nashville International Airport (BNA) today announced the launch of its innovative Maintenance Apprenticeship Program. Structured as a partnership with the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Murfreesboro/Smyrna, the program will offer practical, hands-on experience at BNA, along with formal classroom training and books at no cost, all while providing a competitive salary and benefits to participants.

The program is currently open to applicants interested in becoming a licensed electrician. Later programs will include carpentry, HVAC mechanic, plumbing, equipment mechanic and equipment operator.

No prior experience is necessary or required to enter the program. Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent and a valid driver’s license.

Learn more about the program in this video: https://youtu.be/vdAgkykrTOQ

“BNA’s Maintenance Apprenticeship Program is a rare opportunity for individuals looking to jump-start their careers as a skilled tradesperson,” said Doug Kreulen, BNA president and CEO.

“By partnering with the Tennessee College of Applied Technology Murfreesboro/Smyrna, we can offer an unparalleled experience with a program that covers the cost of tuition and books and provides real-world, on-the-job training at BNA with a full-time salary and benefits. It’s a wonderful opportunity for those interested in embarking on this work path, which is in high-demand, and a great way BNA can foster personal advancement.”

Benefits of BNA’s Maintenance Apprenticeship Program include:

  • Paid training while working toward becoming a skilled tradesperson
  • No student debt; BNA will cover the cost of tuition and books, as well as pay trainees a salary while in class
  • On-the-job training
  • Apprentice with a skilled mentor
  • Full employee benefits

“When BNA reached out for assistance to start a skilled trades apprenticeship program, we welcomed the opportunity to collaborate on creating a pilot and model program for businesses across Tennessee to emulate,” said Nathan Garrett, assistant vice chancellor for Economic and Community Development, Tennessee Board of Regents. “BNA’s forward-thinking approach to hiring is exactly what will help boost skilled trade professionals across our state.”

BNA’s Maintenance Apprenticeship Program offers a competitive base salary with pay increases offered after the completion of each apprentice classification, an additional 1,000 hours of on-the-job training, and an additional six months of service.

For more information and to apply, visit www.flynashville.com/careers.


With nearly 18.3 million passengers visiting each year, Nashville International Airport (BNA) is one of the fastest growing airports in North America. BNA serves approximately 540 daily commercial flights to 75 nonstop destinations. According to a recent study, in 2018 alone, BNA generated more than $7.1 billion in total economic impact, supported more than 67,000 jobs in the region, and produced more than $392 million in state, local and federal taxes. BNA receives no local tax dollars. For more information, visit flynashville.com. Follow us on Facebook: @NashvilleInternationalAirport, Twitter: @Fly_Nashville and Instagram: @FlyNashville. Learn more about BNA Vision, our growth and expansion plan for the airport, at BNAVision.com.