Learning Hub Bolsters Local Aviation Activity

The EAA's Education Center in Oshkosh, Wisconsin has found continued interest since opening in July 2022, offering a "center for aviation learning for young people as well as experienced pilots".

The Education Center will be searching for additional growth in 2024 in the hopes of serving thousands more. The $6.2 million Center was funded to completion after a final $600,000 matching grant from the Ray Foundation in late December 2023. Now complete, the 30,000-square foot facility has been financed privately from top to bottom.

The Education Center is divided between the Pilot Proficiency Center and the Youth Education Center. Regular classes and activities for both demographics are held year-round, from conferences and simulator sessions to children's activities and summer camps.

“Approximately five years ago, this was merely a dream - to create a place where young people could be inspired by the world of flight while current pilots could build their existing skills,” said Jack J. Pelton, EAA’s CEO and Chairman of the Board. “Having now seen what has occurred here in just 18 months, we know what the support of those who believed in the dream has created, expanding the possibilities for people of all ages within EAA’s aviation community based here at Oshkosh.”

“As we close out the initial fundraising portion for the EAA Education Center’s existence, its success shows what is still possible to support EAA’s mission of growing participation in aviation,” said Margaret Brill, EAA Aviation Foundation vice president. “There are many more opportunities that we will be exploring in 2024 to connect with even more people interested in the world of flight.”

FMI: www.eaa.org