RALEIGH – The N.C. Department of Transportation's Division of Aviation has awarded grants of up to $5,000 each to 12 airports to host aviation and aerospace-themed summer academies for K-12 students.
“We're thrilled to partner with airports across the state to offer these academies," said Nick Short, interim director of the NCDOT Division of Aviation. “Not only do students have an incredible time learning about aviation, but they also gain valuable insight into the career opportunities available in this dynamic and growing industry. It's about sparking curiosity and showing them that the sky really is the limit."
These grants, which are state funded, help to inspire the next generation of pilots, engineers, air traffic controllers and aviation enthusiasts. Participating airports include:
- Charlotte-Monroe Executive Airport
- Curtis L. Brown Jr. Field Airport in Elizabethtown
- Fayetteville Regional Airport
- Henderson-Oxford Airport
- Kinston Regional Jetport at Stallings Field
- Laurinburg-Maxton Airport
- Northeastern Regional Airport in Edenton
- Smith Reynolds Airport in Winston-Salem
- Statesville Regional Airport
- Triangle North Executive Airport in Louisburg
- Washington-Warren Airport
- Wilmington International Airport
The academies are designed to engage students in hands-on activities, interactive lessons and behind-the-scenes experiences that bring the aviation industry to life. Participants can look forward to flight simulator sessions, airport tours, aircraft demonstrations and opportunities to connect with aviation professionals who share their passion for the skies.
The ACE Academy Grant Program is a key component of the Division of Aviation's mission to support aerospace and aviation workforce development. By funding these academies, the Division is helping to cultivate a pipeline of skilled professionals who will contribute to the state's robust aviation sector.
Parents and students interested in participating in this year's ACE Academies can learn more by visiting the NCDOT web page devoted to the academies, which contains contact information for each.