Collegiate Tailgate on Tuesday at Gateway Park

July 23, 2018 - EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is made possible in part by more than 5,000 volunteers, many of whom are participants in EAA’s Collegiate Volunteer Program. The program allows college students and college-age attendees to experience AirVenture from a new perspective while gaining knowledge and experience in a variety of fields.

“Our true purpose for the entire Collegiate Volunteer Program is to get the next generation involved in volunteerism — to see the value in it,” said Cassie Bruss, EAA HR business partner and volunteer program manager. “The Collegiate Tailgate also offers a good networking opportunity.”

The Collegiate Tailgate, which will be held Tuesday night in Aviation Gateway Park from 5-6:30 p.m., is a great way for college-age attendees to meet other young aviation enthusiasts and industry organizations. The tailgate includes cookout foods such as brats and burgers as well as a DJ, a bags tournament, and the opportunity to win prizes in a bean bag toss.

According to Cassie, the tailgate is also often attended by college representatives and this year will include a presentation by EAA Chapter Field Representative David Leiting. A former president of EAA Chapter 1342 at the University of North Dakota, David will share insights on how to start an EAA chapter at your college or university.

The Collegiate Tailgate is sponsored by Aviation Supplies & Academics and Endeavor Air, and is free to all college-age attendees. Advance sign-up is not required.