MELBOURNE, FL — Barrington Irving will present his inspirational message of pursuing one’s dreams to over 1,000 students and VIP guests from both Brevard County Schools and Florida Institute of Technology on February 19th. Congressman Bill Posey (R-FL 8th District) will also be speaking about the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education. Mr. Irving is the first black pilot to fly solo around the world. In 2007, at age 23, he was also the youngest pilot to accomplish the feat, breaking seven speed and distance records on his 97-day trip. Mr. Irving operates his Experience Aviation school in Opa Locka, FL, and was a recognized high school athlete in the Miami area.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc. (MHIA) is sponsoring Barrington Irving in the nationwide “Dream & Soar” program, through which Mr. Irving has presented his inspirational message to more than 13,000 students across the United States over the last five years.
“I believe that this event will allow me to get my educational and motivational message out to the students at Brevard County Schools and Florida Tech. I want to show them that pursuing a career in this exciting industry and understanding the value of a STEM education, can enable them to realize their dreams – just as I did,” says Mr. Irving.
“In order for our nation to lead the world and remain competitive our young people must be prepared to meet the challenges of the future,” said Congressman Bill Posey (FL-08). “Florida’s Space Coast has been at the forefront of American innovation for many years and getting students excited about Science, Technology, Engineering and Math is the key to maintaining our edge.”
Congressman Posey continued, “Furthermore, I commend Barrington Irving for his dedication to inspiring young people to take on the role of becoming the next generation of scientists, engineers and professors.”
“I want to thank Congressman Bill Posey and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc. for bringing Barrington Irving’s Dream & Soar: Youth in Aviation to our community. This unique collaboration supports STEM outreach on the Space Coast and brings clarity to the STEM challenges faced by our schools, students, industry, military and our nation,” said Karen Gregory, President, Space Coast Chapter, Women In Defense.
The first presentation for junior and high school students will take place at Bayside High School at 9:00 a.m. EST on February 19th. Bayside High School uses collaboration, reflection, and instructional technology as essential tools, preparing all students to excel in the workforce or post-secondary education. Moreover, faculty and staff stress the importance of integrity through modeling and reinforcing high character standards.
“This is a great opportunity for our students to engage first hand with innovation and industry and make the connection between the classroom and the real world of work,” states Brian T. Binggeli, Superintendent of Brevard Public Schools. “We are proud to partner with Barrington Irving, Mitsubishi, and Representative Posey as we cooperatively bring STEM education to life for our students.”
The second presentation will take place at Florida Institute of Technology at 1:00 p.m. EST in the Gleason Performing Arts Auditorium. The presentation will be tailored to the audience of university students and working professionals. Following the presentation, there will be a VIP reception for media and guests.
“We are proud to have Mr. Irving on campus, and to partner with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc. to feature this community event,” said Anthony J. Catanese, Florida Tech President and CEO. “Young people must first dream big in order to accomplish big things. We look forward to this exciting event.”
Below are details about the presentations and the VIP reception. Please RSVP to Kate Connors at 202-549-1292 or [email protected] to ensure your spot at either the presentations or VIP reception.
