How often do we hear the phrase… where will the next generation of aviation professionals come from, or how do we inspire aviation interest in today’s youth? This topic of discussion and concern is heard throughout the aviation industry.
How do you create enthusiasm toward aviation among today’s youngsters? One of the more successful ways has been KidVenture during EAA AirVenture. Throughout the week some 450 volunteers putting in over 10,000 volunteer hours will significantly raise the awareness of aviation, in particular aircraft maintenance, to thousands of youth between the ages of 4 to 17 years old. Past estimates have been that well over 20,000 kids and parents pass through KidVenture during the week.
I enjoy spending time at KidVenture while attending AirVenture Oshkosh and the enthusiasm is wonderful to see. The Future A&P booths are a huge hit and in recent years up to 1,000 Future A&P badges are earned. The A&P booths offer tasks such as riveting and the engine booths will have conventional four-cylinder engines and turbine engines that the kids can inspect and work on under the guidance of skilled A&P mechanics. These are only a few examples of the exposure and hands-on activity kids can experience. If even a small percentage of them continue on and choose an aviation career, I’d say it’s a success!
KidVenture is located at Pioneer Airport behind the EAA museum and can be reached by taking the KidVenture shuttle bus from the main bus stop directly to KidVenture or by hopping on the EAA museum bus going to the EAA museum and walking a short distance to Pioneer Airport. KidVenture is also a short walk through the Nature Center from the main gate or auto parking lots.
See you at Oshkosh, Ron
