Scouts Gain Access to the Fundamentals of Aviation and Aerodynamics

Scouting America (aka Boy Scouts of America) has updated its Aviation Merit Badge, allowing the youth to explore everything from aerodynamics to industry careers through hands-on education. The badge is now the first in the organization’s collection to feature an interactive online resource guide.

“We are incredibly excited to introduce additional resources in this format for the Aviation Merit Badge,” expressed Roger Krone, president and CEO of Scouting America. “This badge offers a unique opportunity for Scouts to learn about a vital and constantly evolving industry. We hope it will spark curiosity, encourage an interest in STEM fields, and perhaps even inspire future pilots, engineers, and aviation professionals.”

Though the organization had already offered an Aviation Merit Badge, it was given a massive makeover that makes it practically unrecognizable from the prior version. It has a completely new list of requirements, paired with a digital resource guide and workbook to provide a streamlined and visually captivating path to earning the badge.

The highlights of the former Aviation Merit Badge aren’t going anywhere, however. Scouts will still build miniature planes, get the option to take a real discovery flight, and learn principles of flight.

Under the updated process, Scouts will begin by learning about the history of aviation and the milestones that made the industry what it is today. They will then dive into concepts of flight, including the four forces of flight, types and uses of airplanes, navigation and flight planning, weather, air traffic control, and safety regulations, before exploring career opportunities in all parts of the industry.

Scouts already have access to the new content and can begin working with qualified counselors to get started. While some of the course is on paper, it also incorporates several hands-on activities, research-centered projects, and potentially even visits to aviation-related facilities.

FMI: www.scouting.org