Coming Summer 2025

“Soaring into STEM: Exploring the World of Aviation”

Day 1: Introduction to Aviation and Aerodynamics

Theme: The Science of Flight

Morning Session (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

• Welcome & Program Overview

  • Icebreaker activity: “Why Are You Excited About Aviation?”
  • Safety briefing and program rules.

• Interactive Lecture: Basics of Aerodynamics

  • Principles of flight (lift, drag, thrust, and weight).
  • Fun demonstration using paper airplanes.

• Activity: Build and Test Paper Airplanes

  • Experiment with designs to explore lift and drag.

Lunch Break (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM)

Afternoon Session (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM)

• Hands-On Workshop: Building a Glider

  • Assemble simple gliders from kits.
  • Test flights and competition for longest/most accurate flight.

• Group Discussion: Careers in Aviation

  • Explore different roles in aviation (pilots, engineers, mechanics).
  • Share examples of youth making strides in aviation.

Day 2: Engineering and Technology in Aviation

Theme: Innovation Takes Flight

Morning Session (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

• Interactive Lecture: Aircraft Systems and Technology

  • How engines, avionics, and control systems work.
  • Introduction to drones and their role in aviation.

• Activity: Introduction to Flight Simulators

  • Use simulators to “fly” a virtual aircraft.
  • Basic navigation and control practice.

Lunch Break (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM)

Afternoon Session (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM)

• Hands-On Workshop: Build a Model Airplane or Drone

  • Students work in teams to assemble models.
  • Focus on teamwork and problem-solving.

• Guest Speaker/Q&A Session:

  • Invite an aviation professional (pilot, engineer, or mechanic).
  • Discuss their career path and take questions from students.

Day 3: Applied STEM and Aviation Careers

Theme: From Classroom to Cockpit

Morning Session (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

• Field Trip or Demonstration:

  • Visit a local airport, aviation museum, or flight school (if possible).
  • If a field trip isn’t feasible, host a live demonstration with a small aircraft.

• Interactive Activity: Weather and Navigation

  • Teach basics of weather patterns and how they affect flight.
  • Use maps and tools to create simple flight plans.

Lunch Break (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM)

Afternoon Session (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM)

• Activity: Flight Simulator Challenge

  • Use skills from Day 2 to complete flight scenarios.
  • Friendly competition with certificates for top performers.

• Closing Ceremony:

  • Showcase of student projects (gliders, models, etc.).
  • Distribute participation certificates.
  • Final words of encouragement and program feedback.

Key Takeaways for Students:

• Understand basic principles of flight and aerodynamics.
• Gain hands-on experience in building and operating aviation models.
• Learn about careers in aviation and pathways to get involved.
• Develop teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.