FlyQuest unveiled a one-of-a-kind mobile classroom to help both stimulate students’ interest in STEM education and bring the wonders of a career in aviation to them as part of an effort to address the aviation workforce shortage.
The classroom, a renovated motor coach, features flight and air-traffic control simulators, cutaways of aircraft engines among other items and was made possible in part thanks to support from the Huntsville-Madison County Airport Authority and local fixed based operator out of the Huntsville International Airport (HSV), Signature Flight Support.
“At FlyQuest, we’re always looking for new ways to fulfill our mission of awakening dreams and providing opportunities for young people to pursue aerospace education and aviation careers,” said Mark Spencer, chairman of FlyQuest. “With the introduction of our mobile aviation classroom, we look forward to doing this in a unique way that will inspire students and give them unforgettable memories.”
With the impending aviation workforce shortage top of mind both within and outside of the aviation industry, the aviation community is working together to support initiatives like FlyQuest’s that provide innovative solutions to curb the shortage’s predicted impact. By introducing careers in STEM to students, these groups hope to ensure careers in aviation remain top-of-mind among young people.
“At Signature Flight Support, we believe the best outcomes come when we work together. That’s why we’re excited to support FlyQuest in their shared mission of making sure aviation remains attainable for all aviation enthusiasts and introducing the joys of aviation to young people,” said George Davis, general manager of Signature Flight Support Huntsville.
“Huntsville International Airport is pleased to be a partner with FlyQuest and Signature Flight Support to be able to take aviation education to students in local schools,” said Betty Fletcher, Huntsville International Airport chairman of the board of directors. “We actively support this program because ultimately the students who choose these careers will sustain our industry. We believe that proactive measures like this are necessary and we hope that other airports and organizations will follow suit and make an effort to encourage students to consider STEM and aviation careers.”
“The pilot shortage is a reality and therefore it is more imperative than ever that we find new ways to promote both STEM and aviation opportunities to our children”, said Madison County Commission Chairman Dale Strong. “Not only are these opportunities lucrative career paths, but also voids that need to be filled in order for us to continue to operate the transportation network that is supported today. This mobile classroom will prove to be a unique tool that will bring aviation to the students and I commend FlyQuest, Signature Flight Support and Huntsville International Airport for being proactive with this measure.”
