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ACE Academy offers teenagers chance to learn about careers in aviation

Navigating small airplanes, controlling air traffic and exploring Blackhawk helicopters are all part of the Aviation Career Exploration (ACE) Academy, June 16-18, hosted by ITD's Division of Aeronautics in Boise.

Thirty teenagers will have the opportunity to participate in the academy, which is open to high school students ages 14-18. The deadline for submitting applications is May 9.

Teenagers participating in the academy will experience a variety of activities that provide social experiences and learning opportunities. During the three-day academy, students will hear from experts in various aviation-related fields, as well as representatives of regional and national aeronautical schools. Tours of the Boise Airport, local aviation businesses and flight operations, and the Idaho Army and Air National Guard are also scheduled.

"Every student comes in wanting to be a pilot," said Tammy Schoen, with ITD's Division of Aeronautics. "Once they participate in the experiences we offer, they begin to look beyond the ordinary and many leave excited about other aviation-related careers they might pursue."

The academy is capped off with flights to nearby airports, such as Idaho City or Garden Valley. Each student has the opportunity to experience a flight under the guidance of a veteran pilot who has donated time and an airplane to make this possible for ACE participants. Upon return to the Treasure Valley, students will tour the Warhawk Air Museum in Nampa.

A $60 registration fee is due upon a student's acceptance to the academy. Scholarship assistance is available. A limited number of host families also are available for students attending from outside the Treasure Valley.

For more information, call the Division of Aeronautics at (208) 334-8775, or click here for more information and the application.