Oklahoma to See Sustainable Pilot, Maintenance Technician Development Programs for Youth

Senator Jim Inhofe of Oklahoma has been awarded 2 grants to establish an aviation workforce in the state, issued under Section 625 of the FAA Reauthorization act of 2018. The Senator worked with the Trump administration to establish the programs, geared towards the development of aircraft pilots and aviation maintenance technical workers. The Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission and Oklahoma State University obtained nearly $1 million combined in funding from the programs. 

The Commission received a $491,000 grant for the specific development of pilots via statewide implementation of training for teachers, as well as the "You Can Fly" Pilot and Unmanned Aircraft Systems Pathway High School Curriculum to students. The education material will provide  students in their teens with the science, aviation, engineering, mathematics, and technology materials needed for meaningful aviation-based learning. The commission will also host a series of regional aviation days for students, with an additional high school "Pilot Day".

"Oklahoma would not be able to thrive without aviation maintenance technical workers,” Inhofe said. “It is essential that we find ways to improve their career opportunities and ensure they have the proper training to keep up with the ever-changing aviation industry. I am proud to have seen this funding through to the finish line and I know Oklahoma State University will put it to good use, educating the next generation of aviation maintenance professionals.”

FMI: www.inhofe.senate.gov