A·vi·a·tion – the flying or operating of aircraft.
Hasn’t everyone always dreamed of flying their own plane? Well you can make that dream a reality with the Aviation academy here at West Boca. The Aviation Academy is an academy that has been introduced here to West Boca in recent years. The head of the academy is West Boca teacher Susan Hutchings. To get a better understanding of the academy and what her and her students do in their day to day academy class I asked her some questions.
Questions:
1. What is the aviation academy?
The Aviation Academy was established to prepare students for high-paying, rewarding careers in aviation and aerospace. The WBHS Aviation Academy has partnered with Embry Riddle Aeronautical University to provide dual-enrollment courses for our students to earn college credits in Principles of Flight and Private Pilot Ground School. WBHS students have the opportunity to earn two industry certifications in Private Pilot and Drone operations. The Aviation Academy has also partnered with the Boca Raton Airport Authority, Aldrin Foundation, and Civil Air Patrol to introduce students to the many facets that Aviation and Aerospace industries offer.
2. When was the academy introduced to West Boca? The Aviation Academy was established at WBHS in 2022.
3. What do the students of the Aviation Academy learn?
Students start off by working hands-on with STEM Projects, learning different careers available in Aviation, aerodynamics, human factors, technical components of aircraft, weather, airspace, how to fly on aircraft simulators, drone regulations and radio frequencies, and all knowledge for the FAA Private Pilot Written Exam.
4. Why did you start the academy?
Mr. Capitano, the local aviation community, and the Palm Beach School Board worked together for many years to create the Aviation Academy to address the pilot shortage and create a pipeline for students to enter into the rapidly expanding Aerospace Industry.
5. What jobs can be done with aviation?
Pilots, mechanics, air traffic control, airport management, finance, sales, drone operators, and astronauts. The sky’s the limit! According to Boeing’s Pilot and Technician Outlook, the world will need over 600,000 new pilots and nearly 700,000 new technicians in the next 20 years.
6. What was the trip to Embry Riddle Aeronautical University about?
Aviation Academy students were given the opportunity to tour the Embry Riddle flight school, see the 2-story aircraft simulators, observe the student-led flight line at the Daytona Beach Airport, see actual college classrooms and experience college life for the day.
And lastly,
7. How can one apply for the academy?
Ask your guidance counselor to apply to the Aviation Academy or email Dr. D’Amico at gwen.damico@palmbeachschools
