IDAHO NATIONAL
Idaho
Transportation |
Clear skies ahead for teen aviators
Teens from around Idaho gathered recently at the annual Aviation Career Education (ACE) Academy, sponsored by ITDs Division of Aeronautics. Were working to capture the attention of these kids and inspire them into action, said Frank Lester, Division of Aeronautics. For them, its a chance to learn what kinds of exciting careers are possible whether its for flying a commercial airplane, operating an airport or exploring space. ACE featured astronaut and test pilot Joe Edwards; experts
in various aviation-related fields; representatives of regional and
national aeronautical schools; and tours of the Boise Airport and the
Idaho Air National Guard. The teachers saw the value in the workshop they attended, and they passed that enthusiasm along to the kids, Lester said. When they first come, they dont know what theyre going to find, he told a news reporter from the Idaho Statesman. And by the end, they dont want it to end. The academy was capped off with flights to nearby airports, such as Idaho City and Garden Valley. Each student participated in planning and navigating a cross-country flight under the guidance of an experienced pilot. Upon return to the Treasure Valley, students toured the Warhawk Air Museum in Nampa. In their own words So, just why do teenagers decide to take time out of their summers to learn about aviation? Travis Carrigan, 16, Blackfoot The birthday before high school changed my life. I received (a) flight simulator. What began as a sophisticated video game soon became a training tool, teaching Carrigan the basics of flying, such as turns, descents, takeoffs and landings. Then it happened. I figured it was time to go to my parents and ask them what I had been wanting for so long, a flight lesson. After his first lesson, Carrigan knew he wanted to be a pilot. Now, his sights are fixed on college and a degree in aeronautical engineering. Carlie Spence (a.k.a. Captain Carlie), 16, Meridian Spence attended ACE to gain an understanding of what a career in aviation would be like and that would be the first step toward her goal of being a pilot or captain of an airplane. I have always loved to fly in planes and travel. This program will give me an opportunity to experience what it would be like to be behind the wheel of an aircraft, she wrote in her application essay. Clear skies ahead.
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