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37 Countless organizations and agencies have some tie to providing aviation education. This tie ranges from being a sole focus of their group to having a minor component. The groups listed in this chapter are a sample of national organizations with some tie to aviation education and can be a resource for implementing practices identified in this report. Many of the organiza- tions have local or state chapters specific to a particular region or state that work in a specific geographic area to promote the goals of the overall organization. Those local or state chapters are often under an associationâs main webpage and can be contacted for specific support at the local level. In addition to the national organizations listed in this report, there are also state groups such as state aviation departments, as well as state airport and pilot groups, that can also be engaged in aviation education activities. There are too many state groups to list; however, a suggested method to investigate those groups is to conduct an internet search for airport manager or pilot organizations or associations within a specific state of interest. The organization of this chapter is federal agencies, national industry and trade organiza- tions, national youth organizations, and then a summary. 5.1 Federal Agencies Federal agencies recognize the need to develop aviation interest through educational oppor- tunities. The federal agencies and their websites identified in the following sections offer abundant resources for educators to use already-prepared materials or to develop their own materials for use in classroom curriculum. The materials are freely available through links on the websites. The agencies covered are the FAA and NASA. 5.1.1 FAA FAA interest and support for aviation education has been constant since its beginning in 1958. Mervin K. Strickler, Jr., became the father of aerospace education shortly after joining the FAA in 1960. Under his leadership, the FAA established the STEM Aviation and Space Educa- tion (AVSED) Outreach Program in 1961 and eventually gained legislative authority education activities through Public Law 94â353 in 1976, which was to amend the Airport and Airway Development Act of 1970. As a result, a rich range of opportunities is available to individuals and educators alike to learn for themselves or to teach others about the vast world of civil and commercial aviation. Young aviation enthusiasts or educators for all grade levels can access the available programs and learning activities through the AVSED pages on the FAAâs website by searching AVSED. C H A P T E R 5 Sample of Organizations Involved in Aviation Education
38 Developing Innovative Strategies for Aviation Education and Participation The site contains a page targeted to students, with links to puzzles, games, and other activities for youth to access directly. A page targeted to educators organizes AVSED programs by grade level (elementary, middle school, and high school). The same page links educators to the same activities students can access and to classroom curriculum (again organized by school level). Links to additional resources enable teachers or their students to take their education further, explore careers, and research aviation through professional websites of aviation and aerospace organizations and through FAA social media links. Educators may be particularly interested in the information under the Partnerships link, such as the Adopt-a-School program, and in the information under the Grants/Scholarships link. For students of all school levels who display avid interest in aviation careers, the FAA conducts aviation education programs in the summer through the Aviation Career Education (ACE) Academy. See www.faa.gov/education. 5.1.2 NASA NASA exists to promote space flight and exploration and to use science, technology, and mission results to advance the aviation industry and improve daily life here on earth. As such, NASA has a stake in providing education opportunities to prepare future professionals to con- tinue learning STEM disciplines and to carry on civil aerospace research and development as the NASA professionals of tomorrow. The NASA education site has abundant resources for educators and students. Resources range from web activities to electronic newsletters to webinars and YouTube. The site also offers links targeted to opportunities for educators organized by grade level, kindergarten through high school, with informal education opportunities also available. Additional links target students, organized by the same grade levels, giving students many opportunities to connect electronically through clubs, games, monthly topics, and websites specifically for students, indexed alphabeti- cally. Most options for educators have filters available to sort opportunities as needed to take advantage of what is offered. Those educational opportunities also extend to professional devel- opment for the educators themselves, whether preservice, in-service, or informal educators, and the levels covered range from Kâ20. See www.nasa.gov. 5.2 National Industry and Trade Organizations National, and international, industry and trade organizations are well aware of the chal- lenges encountered daily in the aviation industry and what needs and opportunities exist for improvements, particularly related to increasing the interest and participation of young people in aviation activities. The following organizations highlighted in this section have a variety of resources available for educators through membership or from the websites. ⢠Advancing Women in Transportation ⢠Aerospace States Association ⢠Air Traffic Control Association ⢠Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association ⢠Airlines for America ⢠Airports Council InternationalâNorth America ⢠Airport Minority Advisory Council ⢠American Association of Airport Executives ⢠Army Aviation Association of America ⢠Association for Unmanned Vehicles International ⢠Civil Air Patrol ⢠Experimental Aircraft Association
Sample of Organizations Involved in Aviation Education 39 ⢠General Aviation Airport Coalition ⢠General Aviation Manufacturers Association ⢠National Agricultural Aviation Association ⢠National Agricultural Aviation Research & Education Foundation ⢠National Air Transport Association ⢠National Association of State Aviation Officials ⢠National Business Aviation Association ⢠National Coalition for Aviation and Space Education ⢠Ninety-Nines ⢠Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals ⢠Professional Aviation Maintenance Association ⢠Society of Aviation and Flight Educators ⢠University Aviation Association ⢠Women in Aviation International 5.2.1 Advancing Women in Transportation Advancing Women in Transportation (WTS) is an international organization that exists expressly to increase opportunities globally for women to develop and advance their careers in transportation. Although WTS stands for Womenâs Transportation Seminar, which is how the organization originally got its start in 1977, WTS offers many ways women worldwide can develop professionally in transportation fields. The opportunities are the same regardless of the career stage, that is, whether the students are preparing to enter the workforce or whether the women are professionally engaged. Membership is open to men and women alike, and colleges do have chapters on campus. WTS offers monthly programs, networking, professional develop- ment and leadership training, mentoring, the online Knowledge Lab (members only), and their annual conference and scholarships. A monthly newsletter, TranShorts, is available to anyone who subscribes. Most, if not all, involvement opportunities require membership, except for the monthly newsletter. Memberships for educators are offered at a discount and target educators of sec- ondary, undergraduate, and postgraduate studies rather than teachers for lower grade levels. Membership offers educators the opportunity to influence the development of more educational resources and can encourage young women interested in STEM and transportation careers to join at the much-discounted student rate. The students gain access to the Student Corner/ Early Career site in preparation for college graduation. Finally, educators can immediately use TRANSPORTATIONYOU, a WTS affiliate site (linked from the WTS home page under Foun- dation) that is designed for young women ages 13 to 18. The site offers more information about involvement in WTS and transportation careers, a blog, and opportunities to connect through social media. See www.wtsinternational.org/. 5.2.2 Aerospace States Association The Aerospace States Association (ASA) is a nonpartisan organization focused on advocating for federal aerospace and aviation policy development. Through ASA, lieutenant governors, state governor-appointed delegates, individuals from industry organizations, and educators work together. The collective advocates for all 50 states to gain funding for research, design, training, and economic development and to educate youth interested in STEM disciplines to keep states competitive in a global industry. By joining ASA, educators gain the opportunity to influence policy changes at the state and federal levels that benefit their students who are interested in aerospace and aviation careers. The collective advocates for all 50 states to gain funding for research, design, training, and economic development and to educate youth interested in STEM disciplines.
40 Developing Innovative Strategies for Aviation Education and Participation Some links to hearings and studies on the Library page could be used by other colleagues and in the classroom in various ways. College sophomores (exclusively) will be interested in the schol- arship opportunity available on the site, and all students may find some links on the Library page interesting for their personal use or classroom projects. See www.aerostates.org. 5.2.3 Air Traffic Control Association The Air Traffic Control Association (ATCA) was established in 1956 by a group of air traffic controllers. ATCA exists to see that progress in the science of air traffic control continues and to preserve a safe flight environment as technology advances and air traffic demand continues to grow. Membership in ATCA offers benefits such as savings to attend events, the ATCA Bulletin (the monthly newsletter), subscriptions to the Journal of Air Traffic Control and Air Traffic Control Quarterly, daily e-mail bulletins, and networking and other opportunities to be actively involved in the organization. Students receive discounted memberships (pre-graduate level) and Young Aviation Professionals. Educators at secondary levels may find the publications, some networking and event opportu- nities, and the scholarship links beneficial in educating students and mentoring them for careers in air traffic control. A free link named Aviation Sites, which is under Resources, connects to aviation news sites, audio streams of live air traffic control, live flight tracking, and the Aviation Weather Center. Students at the secondary and undergraduate levels may find the publications, the link to flight schools (under Resources) and information available under Scholarship useful. The Scholarship page describes the five options available, along with the requirements for each, and includes links to the application and deadline to apply. See https://www.atca.org/home. 5.2.4 Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) is a nonprofit advocacy group estab- lished in 1939 that exists to protect the freedom to fly while keeping general aviation safe. AOPA connects existing and future aircraft owners and pilots; offers education, resources, and training material for pilots, nonpilots, and policymakers; and advocates for general aviation with gov- ernment agencies. Cost of membership and the associated benefits per category are explained in greater detail on the website, with five categories for adults, three categories for drone pilots, and free memberships for student pilots, youth ages 13 to 18, and active duty military aviators. Information is readily available without requiring membership. For example, general aviation statistics are included (although at the time of the writing of this report, the numbers are several years old), and a robust area of the site contains links to up-to-date news and videos, including online articles from the publications. Students can also find, or be directed by their teachers to, flight school information, including access to online training. The You Can Fly page of the web site links students and educators to learning opportunities, including the High School Aviation Symposium and a high school STEM curriculum. Perhaps this organization might also offer easily accessible means of gaining speakers to present to classrooms and assemblies on a variety of aviation topics. See https://www.aopa.org/. 5.2.5 Airlines for America Airlines for America (A4A) is an organization that advocates for air travelers and collabo- rates with airlines, labor, Congress, and the FAA to establish measures and shape policies that improve air travel for all. A4A, founded in 1936, is known for key achievements such as the creation of the Civil Aeronautics Board, establishment of the air traffic control system, and airline deregulation. The You Can Fly page of the website links students and educators to learning opportuni ties, including the High School Aviation Symposium and a high school STEM curriculum.
Sample of Organizations Involved in Aviation Education 41 The website contains a high volume of information that could be useful for aviation educa- tors for classroom activities or for incorporation into the curriculum. The site also contains career and job opportunity links. Scholarship or grant information did not seem to be readily available. Landing pages such as The Airline Industry, Policy Priorities, Data & Statistics, the blog, and news pages likely contain material that educators could use in lesson planning and creating activities for students to develop greater interest in aviation and airlines. See http:// airlines.org/. 5.2.6 Airport Minority Advisory Council The Airport Minority Advisory Council (AMAC) started the important work of promoting the inclusion of minority-, women-owned, and disadvantaged businesses in aviation and aero- space industries for contracting opportunities and for their professional development in 1984. Membership targets those already conducting business in the industry, offering benefits such as conferences, networking opportunities, and links to legislative, regulatory, and many other resources. However, AMAC also offers some free content educators could use, as well as pro- grams for high school and undergraduate students through the AMAC Foundation. Educators can access membership benefits through the individual membership, and students can access membership benefits through the student membership. Free resources available on the website include the Connections newsletter, podcasts, and press releases. Students can participate in Project LIFT and internships and can apply for several scholarships detailed through the Foundation link on the website. Project LIFT consists of multiple hands-on events conducted throughout the year, in which students not only learn more about aviation and aviation-related businesses but also gain personal connection with experienced mentors. The internships are both paid and unpaid, generally completed as part of their college studies, and placement is with corporate members of the AMAC. See http:// amac-org.com/. 5.2.7 Airports Council InternationalâNorth America (ACIâNA) Airport operators around the world created Airports Council International (ACI) in 1991 to represent their worldwide common interests and foster cooperation with partners throughout the air transport industry. ACI pursues the interests of airports in discussions with international organizations. The most important relationship is with the International Civil Aviation Organization, in which inter- national standards for air transport are debated and then developed. ACI defends the positions of airports and develops standards and recommended practices in the areas of safety, security, and environment initiatives. ACI also advances and protects the interests of airports in impor- tant policy changes on airport charges and regulation, strengthening the hand of airports in dealing with airlines. ACI provides the platform for pursuing a constructive and cooperative relationship with the airline associations, governments, and regulators. ACI also offers its members numerous training opportunities, a customer serviceâbenchmarking program, detailed industry statistical analyses, and practical publications. See https://airportscouncil.org. 5.2.8 American Association of Airport Executives The American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) was formed in 1928. Membership consists of airport executives from large-hub, international airports all the way to local, general
42 Developing Innovative Strategies for Aviation Education and Participation aviation airports and includes individuals from companies and organizations that support air- ports. AAAE has a comprehensive catalogue of opportunities for those airport management professionals to train and gain professional development and certification with a designated group, AAAE Young Professionals or AAAE YoPro, which targets people age 35 and under for career networking and development. Resources on the website accessible without a membership seem limited to the blog, press releases, and general information about AAAE. Under Resources, a page has student resources with links that seem appropriate for undergraduate and graduate students and faculty. The resources include handbooks both for students who organize or participate in a student chapter and for faculty advisors who mentor them along the way. Through membership, students gain the opportunity to attend AAAE-sponsored conferences, educational seminars, and webinars at discounted student member rates and have access to scholarships. Faculty advisors also receive discounted memberships with access to some of the same resources. Educators also can take advantage of the training and professional development opportunities to enhance instruction and the complimentary subscriptions to Airport Magazine and Airport Report Today. AAAE has six regional chapters that offer additional connectivity to the airports and aviation professionals within those geographic areas. Many of these groups offer scholarships for students. See https:// www.aaae.org/. 5.2.9 Army Aviation Association of America The Army Aviation Association of America (AAAA) was started in 1957 and bears the distinc- tion of being the âonly not-for-profit organization dedicated to representing the broad interests of Army Aviation.â There are 73 chapters worldwide. The 17,000 members consist of active duty and reserve soldiers, those who have retired, students, and civilians in the government and affili- ate organizations, all with a shared interest in Army aviation. Educators and students can find current and back or archived digital issues (and articles) of ARMYAVIATION magazine freely accessible through the website. The AAAA Scholarship Foundation, Inc., offers many scholar- ships with the primary requirement being that the student either is a member or must be a child of, sibling to, or a spouse of a current or deceased member. See https://www.quad-a.org/. 5.2.10 Association for Unmanned Vehicles International The Association for Unmanned Vehicles International is the worldâs largest nonprofit orga- nization dedicated to the advancement of unmanned systems and robotics. Membership covers 60 countries worldwide, consisting of both corporations and individual industry professionals who work in the defense, civil, and commercial markets. Involvement, advocacy, safety, and innovation are high priorities of the organization. Membership levels and the associated benefits are described on the website, including student and university memberships. The landing pages for each membership level contain unique links to educational resources and opportunities that are exclusively accessible with membership. The organization stresses that all levels are invited and welcome to join the organization and to apply for attendance at the sponsored events. Manufacturer and government advocacy events, including student competitions, are described on the Events page of the website. The Industry News page contains a variety of freely accessible resources, including up to two recent issues of Unmanned Systems magazine with creation of a site login. Additional free resources include a Careers page and a Know Before You Fly page, which educates prospective users about safety and responsible operation of UAS. Neither of those pages requires a membership or site login to search. Information about scholarships or grants was not readily discoverable. See http:// www.auvsi.org/.
Sample of Organizations Involved in Aviation Education 43 5.2.11 Civil Air Patrol The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) began in the late 1930s, in response to the pending entry of the United States into World War II. CAP functions as an auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force and carries out its mission through aerospace education, cadet programs, and emergency services. Efforts and resources in aerospace education are divided into internal (member) and exter- nal (public) categories, and the programs available serve to advance knowledge in the STEM disciplines as they relate to aviation and to promote leadership and development in aerospace education. Kindergarten through Grade 6 educators are invited to become members for a one-time fee, through which they gain access to complimentary STEM education resources such as a coordi- nated 21-lesson curriculum. Although the physical materials are at the expense of the teacher, the materials are inexpensive supplies teachers may already have on hand or can easily pur- chase. Lessons incorporate good character and physical fitness, allowing teachers to mentor and encourage students to consider becoming involved in the CAPâs Cadet Program for youth over 12 years old. Students who wish to enroll in the Cadet Program must first complete the require- ments from the Aerospace Education Program and gain leadership, physical fitness, and moral leadership training as they complete the program. Competitive scholarships are also available for those cadets who wish to continue their studies in aviation and STEM fields. See https://www. gocivilairpatrol.com/. 5.2.12 Experimental Aircraft Association The Experimental Aircraft Association or EAA began uniting aviation enthusiasts in 1953. Members fly, fix, and build (or do all of the jobs) recreational aircraft worldwide. An individual membership in EAA gives educators access to EAA publications, news and articles, videos and webinars, and even software for building an aircraft (SOLIDWORKS). Local educators can also bring their classroom for museum tours that include a short film. Students have a variety of options for involvement. The EAA has designed a program for directly educating youth starting with the Young Eagles program, which gives youth from 8 years old to 17 years old their first plane ride and leads to free membership. Membership gives youth the opportunity to experience Sportyâs Learn to Fly, an interactive online course, and their first flight lesson, if they are at least 13 years old, both free of charge. Finally, after completing those steps, young people interested in continuing their hands-on aviation education can apply for scholarships for additional flight training, EAA Air Academy camps, and college. EAA also offers numerous options at the annual EAA AirVenture, which is an annual gathering of aviation enthusiasts held each summer at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Students can apply for internships, with most available in Oshkosh but also some international opportu- nities available in France. See https://www.eaa.org/eaa. 5.2.13 General Aviation Airport Coalition The General Aviation Airport Coalition (GAAC) focuses on promoting and preserving the nationâs general aviation airports through information sharing and networking about legisla- tion, policies, and best practices that affect day-to-day operations for airports. Most of the web- site content and focus of activity seems more suited to professionals involved daily in general aviation operations or invested due to local economic impacts and value of all the airports have to offer. However, educators and students can access the Issues page and blog, and membership gives access to the GAAC library. A discounted membership is also available for students. See http://www.gaairportcoalition.org/.
44 Developing Innovative Strategies for Aviation Education and Participation 5.2.14 General Aviation Manufacturers Association The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) began in 1970 in Washington, D.C. GAMA focuses on the general welfare, safety, interests, and activities of the global business and general aviation industry. GAMA promotes how the manufacture, maintenance, repair, and overhaul of aircraft fit into local, national, and global economic growth and serve critical transportation needs. Memberships are for businesses, and the specific criteria for application for each type of membership are described on the Membership page of the website. Publications and news articles that could be used in aviation education are freely available through several links on the website. The Opportunities in GA page contains links to a STEM- inspired Aviation Design Challenge for high school students, links to aviation-related programs and internships for high school and college students, a flying machine design competition called GoFly, and scholarship opportunities. See https://gama.aero/. 5.2.15 National Agricultural Aviation Association The National Agricultural Aviation Association (NAAA), founded in 1966, has a member- ship today of about 1,900 individuals in 46 states. The NAAA supports the agricultural aviation industry, which is pivotal in the protection of food supply, forestry, public health, and biofuels through aerial application of products. The NAAA offers networking and educational oppor- tunities, facilitates government and public relations, and works with the industry to recruit members and staff and to distribute information. The website contains details for membership levels and costs, with the Associate level identified for those who want to promote aerial appli- cation but who are not actively involved in doing so themselves. The Associate level may be applicable for those interested in, but not involved in, aerial applications. Membership includes a subscription to Agricultural Aviation magazine, a subscription to the members-only NAAA Newsletter, and access to media and education materials for free or available for purchase. NAAA also works with the National Agricultural Aviation Research & Education Foundation to offer educational programs. On the NAAA website, the membership page and associated links offer several resources through various media to develop educational programs, including a select number of archived issues of Agricultural Aviation, an educational brochure, and elemen- tary and secondary curriculum guides specifically designed for classroom or social organization leaders (such as 4-H). The website also gives information about scholarship opportunities both for those interested in careers in agricultural aviation and any other education desired beyond high school. See https://www.agaviation.org/. 5.2.16 National Agricultural Aviation Research & Education Foundation The National Agricultural Aviation Research & Education Foundation (NAAREF), founded in 1982, is a not-for-profit organization supported by donations and grants that exists to promote and foster research, technology transfer, and advanced education between aerial applicators, allied industries, government agencies, and academic institutions. NAAREF does this through several programs: Professional Aerial Applicatorsâ Support System, Operation Self-regulating Application and Flight Efficiency, Compaass Rose, and Fly Safe Messages. Details about each program can be found through individual links on the web page through the NAAA website. All of the programs share the dedication to training and programming that educates and enhances the professionalism of agricultural aviation pilots and the safety of the pilots, along with the safety of everyone affected by agricultural aviation activities. See https://www.agaviation.org/.
Sample of Organizations Involved in Aviation Education 45 5.2.17 National Air Transport Association The National Air Transport Association (NATA), founded in 1940, advocates for the general aviation industry with local, state, and federal agencies. While membership consists of 2,300 com- panies ranging from small to large serving general aviation in some capacity, a majority of those member companies classify as small business enterprises with 40 or fewer employees. In addition to government advocacy, NATA members gain access to the Annual Meeting and Aviation Busi- ness conference, as well as its Safety 1st Professional Line Service Training program, considered an industry standard that has trained thousands of line service specialists. NATA established a secondary organization called the National Air Transportation Founda- tion, which supports aviation businesses that serve the flying public by offering education and training for their employees. Scholarship information is linked through several landing pages on the website. The available grants and application process for educators who wish to make aviation education activities part of their curriculum are also described through links on various pages. All membership levels, including discounted student memberships, and the associated benefits are described on the membership pages of the site. Any resources available to public nonmembers, including the opportunity to attend events and conferences, can be accessed by creating a login. See http://nata.aero/. 5.2.18 National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) The National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) was founded in 1931 and is one of the most senior aviation organizations in the United States, predating even the FAAâs pre decessor, the Civil Aeronautics Authority. NASAO was established to ensure uniformity of safety measures, to standardize airport regulations, and to develop a truly national air trans- portation system responsive to local, state, and regional needs. NASAO represents the men and women in agencies of state government aviation who serve the public interest of the states, Guam, and Puerto Rico. NASAO members organize, promote, and fund a variety of aviation programs across the nation. All states develop statewide aviation system plans and airport capital improvement plans. The states invest more than $3 billion annually in planning, operations, infrastructure development, maintenance, and navigational aids at more than 5,000 airports across the country. Each year, state aviation officials conduct safety inspections at thousands of public- use airports. In 1986, the nonprofit NASAO Center for Aviation Research and Education was created to âenhance the public good through an increasingly safe air transportation system.â It is also a major participant in the International Aviation Art Contest for children and in other aviation education efforts. NASAO staff present the views of the states to Congress and the Administration. NASAO works closely with the U.S. Department of Transportation, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the Transportation Research Board, and the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. See http://www.nasao.org. 5.2.19 National Business Aviation Association The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), founded in 1947 and based in Wash- ington, D.C., exists to help build a better, more productive, efficient, and successful business aviation environment, nationally and globally. Membership categories and costs vary based
46 Developing Innovative Strategies for Aviation Education and Participation on criteria relative to ownership and operations of U.S.-registered aircraft and sales volume, among other criteria, and include corporate, business, business aviation contractor, airport, and affiliate memberships. Educators and students at the high school and undergraduate levels may find publications and resources, such as Business Aviation Insider and the weekly e-newsletter NBAA Update, suitable for learning and potential career development. However, membership is required to access those resources. The website has a link titled For STUDENTS that offers many resources to enhance student learning and career development, whether through independent access or led by educators, and it appears schools can register for membership. Students in middle school, high school, and college are encouraged to engage with current business aviation professionals at the Careers in Business Aviation Day, always held on the final day of the Business Aviation Conference. Students can also access on-demand education, a mentoring network, and networking oppor- tunities, such as through college or university roundtable sessions. The website contains a com- prehensive list of scholarships, with application links and deadlines featured prominently. See https://www.nbaa.org/. 5.2.20 National Coalition for Aviation and Space Education The National Coalition for Aviation and Space Education (NCASE), started in 1993, works with the FAA to promote aviation and space education and support schoolsâ efforts to do the same at the local, state, and national levels. A main draw and starting point for students and educators on the NCASE website is the Guide link. This comprehensive, quick reference tool lists aviation and aerospace organizations within the NCASE membership and marks the types of education resources they offer. The website also contains links to aviation history and publications and to educator and stu- dent resources. Educator resources reach a broad range of age levels, from early childhood or elementary through high school, and some resources especially target underrepresented groups in aviation, such as girls and minorities. The student resources focus mostly on flight training, and the aviation camp links direct interested individuals to other websites and contact informa- tion. While some links are broken, some links are still active, and all of them suggest keyword searches that could be used to find camps nearby. The NCASE website stresses that its focus is to serve as a facilitator for education. See http://www.aviationeducation.org/. 5.2.21 Ninety-Nines The Ninety-Nines, named for the 99 charter members, is an international, nonprofit orga- nization of licensed women pilots started in 1929. The organization focuses on promoting the advancement of aviation through education, scholarships, and the collaboration of its thousands of members in 44 countries. The Ninety-Nines own and manage the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum in Atchison, Kansas, and The 99s Museum of Women Pilots at the headquarters in Oklahoma City, both easily accessible resources for educators in proximity to those locations. Free resources on the website that could be used for student research include links to the two museums, short blog posts under âWhat We DoâWomen Pilots Today,â and current and archived issues of Ninety-Nines, the organizationâs publication. A link to the Speakerâs Bureau could also provide some enhancement of classroom discussion about women in aviation. Student pilots are eligible for membership as long as they have a student pilot certificate (or equivalent for non-U.S. student pilots). A variety of scholarships is available, includ- ing research scholarship grants and Fly Now Awards for student pilot members. See https:// www.ninety-nines.org/.
Sample of Organizations Involved in Aviation Education 47 5.2.22 Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals The Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP), a nonprofit organization founded in 1976, exists to encourage and advance minorities in all aviation and aerospace careers. The websiteâs organization streamlines information about educating youth on the Project Aerospace landing page. Aerospace Professionals in Schools provides teachers the opportunity to request speakers who will come and talk with students about careers in aviation and how that relates to STEM disciplines. Educators also can direct students to the youth opportunities in which they can directly participate. Through OBAPâs partnership with the Academy of Model Aeronautics, teachers can find STEM tools for the classroom. Through the same program, Project Aerospace, middle and high school youth can enroll in the Aviation Career Education Academies, which are week-long summer camps held nation- wide. Students ages 16 to 19 can enroll in the OBAP Solo Flight Academy, where they spend 2 weeks immersed in aviation training that culminates in a solo flight experience. Qualified stu- dents have the chance to attend the Academy Introductory Mission through OBAPâs partner- ship with the U.S. Coast Guard, and they can apply to enroll in the National Flight Academy. Several scholarships are available and linked through the Project Aerospace section of the website. Memberships are available both for youth and for educators (institutional member- ships come with five adult memberships) and are the only way to access OBAP publications. See http://www.obap.org/. 5.2.23 Professional Aviation Maintenance Association The Professional Aviation Maintenance Association (PAMA) began with its inaugural con- vention in 1972. PAMA focuses on improving safety in the aviation industry by dedicating resources to enhancing the professionalism of aviation maintenance technicians. Resources include educational opportunities, networking, and convention attendance and access to a variety of print and digital publications (referenced but not immediately available on the website). The website does contain a dedicated page for job opportunities. A range of memberships is available, with requirements and costs detailed on the member- ship page of the website, and discounted rates are available for those who meet the listed criteria. There is a specific membership level for educational institutions engaged in the aviation indus- try. The site stresses that local and regional chapters, which are identified through a dedicated page on the site, are the cornerstones of the organization. No information about scholarships or grants was readily discoverable on the website. See https://www.pama.org/. 5.2.24 Society of Aviation and Flight Educators The Society of Aviation and Flight Educators (SAFE) is an organization of aviation educators that is member oriented. SAFE works with industry partner organizations and the FAA to foster professionalism and excellence in aviation and to promote safety in flying through continuing education, professional standards, and accreditation. The website describes a range of member- ship levels and the associated benefits. The website also contains a directory for finding a SAFE educator, noting that the profiles are self-created member profiles not necessarily endorsed or recommended by the organization. A link to job opportunities is also on the website. Membership benefits can include items such as a subscription to Flying magazine and mentor- ship programs, as well as many discounts on services, apps, and publications; however, exclu- sions apply based on membership level. An individual must be a member to access educational resources. Grants are available for Kâ12 teachers who wish to incorporate aviation-themed lessons into their normal classroom curriculum. The grant requirements allow for a variety of activities Aerospace Profes sionals in Schools provides teachers the opportunity to request speakers who will come talk with students about careers in aviation and how that relates to STEM disciplines. Kâ12 educators can find free resources available through the Public Resource Center page on the website, and member resources are available through the MembersÂOnly Resource Center.
48 Developing Innovative Strategies for Aviation Education and Participation and field trips to fulfill the grant. Kâ12 educators can find free resources available through the Public Resource Center page on the website, and member resources are available through the Members-Only Resource Center. See https://www.safepilots.org/. 5.2.25 University Aviation Association The University Aviation Association (UAA) has been an active forum for college students, faculty, staff, and aviation practitioners to collaborate and improve aviation education for the last 70 years. Membership provides benefits such as educational programming, access to publi- cations, networking and professional development opportunities, and scholarships for students. The website seems geared toward high school and college students, and toward postgraduate aviation professionals. Educators may find becoming a member useful for access to the publica- tions, to mentor students expressing interest in aviation education, and to encourage students to seek scholarships and detailed information about potential colleges they could attend. Members also have access to several conferences throughout the year that offer more mentoring, network- ing, and additional education opportunities. See http://www.uaa.aero/. 5.2.26 Women in Aviation International Women in Aviation International (WAI), founded in 1990, has 116 chapters and more than 12,000 members, including men, worldwide. WAI focuses on encouraging and advancing women in all aviation career fields and interests. Several types of membership are available, including multiple options for stu- dents (relative to where they live). Benefits include the bimonthly Aviation for Women publication and monthly WAI Connect electronic newsletter. Joining WAI also gives students and edu- cators access to membership in local chapters, educational out- reach programs, networking for career development, conference attendance, and scholarships. The Great Lakes Chapter of WAI is active in providing educational opportunities. Downloadable educational resources ideal for classroom use are available through links on the WAI website under Education & Careers. See https://www.wai.org/resources. WAI recommends using them either as part of the classroom curriculum or for special events such as the Girls in Aviation Day. The Pioneer Hall of Fame online also offers teachers opportunities for student research and reporting to generate greater interest in aviation. Young women interested in aviation careers can access the career links for more information, mentorship opportunities, and scholarships for continu- ing their aviation education. See https://www.wai.org/. 5.3 National Youth Organizations Youth organizations interested in aviation education offer a distinct advantage of already being involved in educational programming, which dovetails nicely with additional educational opportunities specifically focused on aviation. The organizations featured in this section offer varying degrees of existing opportunity with the potential for more, and the websites contain diverse examples of these opportunities. Organizations covered include ⢠4-H ⢠Boy Scouts of America ⢠Girl Scouts of the USA ⢠Project Lead the Way Source: Great Lakes Chapter of Women in Aviation The Great Lakes Chapter of WAI is active in providing educational opportunities. Examples include their annual Womenâs Aviation Career Symposium and Girlâs Day in Aviation.
Sample of Organizations Involved in Aviation Education 49 5.3.1 4-H 4-H is an organization focused on helping youth and families to develop skills to strengthen and help their community and generate innovative ideas to improve our economy. 4-H got its start more than 100 years ago through clubs organized around the needs and shared inter- ests of their community. The clubs served as a bridge between public school education and rural agricultural life, giving young people hands-on experiences and skills in health, science, agriculture, and environmental protection. Educational opportunities will be most effective through a local 4-H club, but the website does contain information about the programs avail- able on the Parents landing page under 4-H Programs at a Glance, and from there one can explore the various programs available. It also appears that anyone can purchase curriculum from the 4-H shop, and several curricula relative to STEM disciplines are available. Something to consider is that in keeping with the intent of the organization, teachers can also reach out to local 4-H clubs to collaborate on projects and classroom initiatives. Educators can also become involved through challenges posted on the website, highlighting a project that meets a need within the community. See https://4-h.org/. 5.3.2 Boy Scouts of America The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) has been training Americaâs youth since 1910. Age and activities determine levels of par- ticipation and the types of activities, which shift in complex- ity as they grow and continue learning. Based on the website, the Exploring and Venturing scout levels offer the greatest opportunities for STEM and aviation education training. Free resources and lessons are available through the Exploring and activity library links. Potentially, a school could also establish a club, following the requirements, steps, and guidelines of BSA, and conduct a variety of hands-on education programs for students that apply STEM to aviation. Keywords that can expedite searching on the site are âaviationâ and âSTEM edu- cation.â See https://www.scouting.org/. 5.3.3 Girl Scouts of the USA The Girl Scouts of the USA, first started in 1912, teaches girls the skills needed to thrive in todayâs world, giving them a safe place to try new things, to fail or succeed, and to continue working toward improvement, success, and leadership. The Girl Scouts train girls in STEM disciplines from Kâ12 and offer badges earned through use of STEM skills. The flexibility of the programming provides much opportunity for connecting the Girl Scouts, STEM, and aviation, so educators may find it beneficial to partner with a local troop and offer STEM programs or activities or volunteer to speak to a troop about STEM and aviation innovation. See https://www. girlscouts.org/. 5.3.4 Project Lead the Way Project Lead the Way is a nonprofit organization that empowers students to thrive thanks to expertise and support from those who champion their mission. The organization is working with educators and students in Grades Kâ12 to promote hands-on, real-world learning experiences so that students can develop their STEM skills. Teachers can download the Implementation Guide to get a program started at their school and can gain tips and best practices from other teachersâ experiences through the blog. Several other guides and resources, including fund raising and In keeping with the intent of the organization, teachers can also reach out to local 4ÂH clubs to collaborate on projects and class room initiatives. Source: Mead & Hunt, Inc.
50 Developing Innovative Strategies for Aviation Education and Participation program brochures, are available for download with registration to tailor a program to meet the studentsâ needs. Project Lead the Way students have access to resources that will help them research and apply for scholarships, seek preferred admission to colleges, find internships, and more. See https://www.pltw.org/about-us. 5.4 Summary The organizations and agencies listed in this chapter have some ties to aviation education and can be resources for implementing practices identified in this report. Many of them are inexpensive or free, with websites for easy access and searching to find the activities that are a fit for the program under development. Because of the variety in content, age level, range of activi- ties, media, and scope available from one program to the next program, individual programs will likely be customized and adapted year over year.
