Minnesota Aeronautics Bulletin – by Christopher Roy, Director
One very important part of the mission of the Mn/DOT Office of Aeronautics is “aviation education” and “outreach.”
To demonstrate the importance of aviation education, I will share a quote with you that was made by newly appointed EAA President and CEO Rod Hightower at EAA AirVenture 2010 in Oshkosh, Wisconsin:
“When you are exposed to aviation early in your life, there’s a good chance that you’ll stay involved in aviation. I think the outreach to youth is probably one of the most important areas to expose people not only to aviation, but to the things that are important to aviation: science, math, engineering, technology, and I think America needs to stand up and be strong in that.” (Rod Hightower)
Mr. Hightower’s quote similarly reflects our attitude and spirit toward reaching out to the community and to the youth in our state. Through our outreach and aviation education efforts, we share information about the true importance and value aviation brings to their community. We can show people how aviation impacts their daily lives. We can also show them how they can be an active part of aviation and help increase its value to their community and to the youth who may someday choose careers in aviation.
Your Minnesota Office of Aeronautics is an active sponsor and participant in programs for youth, such as the following:
Aviation Career Education (ACE) Camp: The ACE Camp is held in June and July, and is open to Minnesota students who will be entering 10th, 11th, or 12th grade. ACE Camp allows students to explore a wide variety of aviation careers and all aspects of the aviation and aerospace industries through tours and hands-on projects. Campers are also given the opportunity to fly in a helicopter, pilot a single-engine aircraft, and take the controls of a glider.
Adopt-A-School Program: The Aviation Safety, Education, and Training Section of the Minnesota Office of Aeronautics in response to requests from airport managers for ideas, materials, and activities, developed The Adopt-A-School Program for visiting school students and their teachers. It provides curriculum and materials for teachers to cover with their students in advance of their visit to the airport which makes the visit more effective and meaningful and furthers aviation education.
Adopt An Airport Program: Any public-use airport in Minnesota is eligible to participate in the program. It provides a means by which communities may become involved in their local airports and assist in the maintenance and beautification of airport facilities. Local civic and community groups or individuals can adopt the airport, which means they volunteer their time to assist the airport manager or operator with activities mutually agreed upon. This program promotes increased awareness of the advantages and economic impacts that airports have on communities. It is also a means of education by which the community can learn about aviation and aviation careers, and understand what activities take place at an airport
There is a lot more I can tell you, but why don’t you take a few moments to go to our web page and see for yourself: http://www.dot.state.mn.us/aero/aved/index.html. I am sure you will find a wealth of information that will open your eyes to new ways to understand, get involved with, and enjoy aviation. Check it out!
