AOPA's High School Aviation STEM Symposium set for November 16

The sixth annual AOPA Foundation High School Aviation STEM Symposium provides an educational and networking opportunity for educators. Teachers are able to meet directly with aviation industry leaders, career professionals, and other educators to share information and ideas on bringing the aviation industry and science, technology, engineering, and math programs inside the classroom. 

Pilots, aerospace engineers, scientists, technologists, and technicians are all high-paying, in-demand careers that need to be filled within the coming years. While COVID has impacted many segments of the aviation industry in the short term—it has not diminished the demand for professionals that will be needed across a wide range of careers. There is no better time than the present for high school students to have exposure to these STEM careers.

Highlights of the STEM symposium include introductory remarks from AOPA President Mark Baker, the future of aviation and aerospace workforce discussion with FAA Deputy Administrator Bradley Mims and AOPA Senior Vice President of Government Affairs and Advocacy Jim Coon, and a special appearance from country singer and pilot Dierks Bentley. Several breakout sessions including information from airline cadet programs, how to start an aviation program, and a deeper look into aviation careers will be featured throughout the event.

Symposium attendee and Triple Tree Aerodrome Executive Director Robb Williams said, “I have proudly attended every AOPA STEM Symposium since its inception in 2015. AOPA has continually improved this program and partnered with industry leaders in education and aviation to make a learning opportunity like no other… As an aviator, educator, and parent, I can think of no better resource for my students and professional development opportunities than the AOPA STEM Symposium.”

Attendees will be able to access the virtual STEM symposium from the comfort of their home, office, or classroom on November 16. The content will be recorded and available for a limited time after the live event.

Educators, administrators, and aviation professionals interested in attending the AOPA Foundation High School Aviation STEM Symposium can register for the event online.

"This [event] gives me tremendous hope for the future," said Jamie Beckett, the AOPA You Can Fly Ambassador for Florida. Beckett is hosting a breakout session on how to create high school clubs that give students hands-on aviation experiences. 

The You Can Fly program is funded by charitable donations to the AOPA Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization. To be a part of the solution, visit www.aopafoundation.org/donate.