High Schoolers Set to Build Vans RV-12iS in Tech Program

The Texarkana Independent School District has revealed a new partnership with Tango Flight, a 501c3 non-profit corporation aimed at fostering STEM participation in young students. The program will get students experience in building a fully operational Vans RV-12iS. 

Tango Flight is an educational charity with its own turnkey program made alongside Wichita State University and the Airbus Foundation. The curriculum provides students with the fundamental technical and mechanical skills they need to build their own LSA, as well as a " strong mechanical, electrical and aerospace engineering foundation." Texarkana appears to be the second school district to take advantage of their offerings, with other Texas native, Georgetown ISD beginning their project in 2016. That completed aircraft was sold off to fund the next kit, with additional fundraising expanding the program to even more local schools. Administrators find it a hard offering to pass up, providing real-world experience and manufacturing knowledge at a fairly low price point. Georgetown defrayed their ~$75,000 cost with student fundraising, an easy prospect when students see the assembled aircraft in their lunch room. 

“As a district with a strong innovative spirit, we are thrilled to introduce yet another STEM opportunity that sets us apart, promotes career exploration and gives our students a leg up on their futures,” said Texarkana ISD Superintendent Dr. Doug Brubaker. “This program will change the trajectory of some of our students’ paths.”

The “There is a growing demand for employees in the aviation, aerospace and outer space industries. Whether its pilots, engineers or aviation mechanics and technicians, the demand increases every year. These opportunities represent high-paying, high-reward job opportunities for young people. We help connect students to those opportunities,” said Craig Anthony, Director of Development at Tango Flight.

FMI: https://www.tangoflight.org