Aeronautics Now Part of High School Students' Lives

May 2019 - Founded by Camil Dumont with the assistance of Catherine Tobenas, this exciting program delivers training in aviation technology to schools. I first met them at a meeting held to explore the possibility of establishing a new EAA chapter in Bromont, Quebec. It’s a pleasure to publish Catherine’s article on the success of the program so far. — Ed.

With a strong presence in five high schools in Quebec, the Aviation Training Program (ATP) of Aviation Connection will be expanded to five additional schools by January 2020, including a school in Ontario.

More than 500 students will benefit from the program. The ATP provides a three-year structured course offered 100 percent free to high school students, aged 13 to 18.

Starting in September, school credits (science and technology) will be awarded to students registered in the program.

The problems of labour shortages in the aviation industry, worldwide, represent a serious threat to our economy. New technologies in transport are developing at a high speed. The competition is fierce!

Bringing aerospace to high school students is no luxury — it is a necessity.

The ATP is a great opportunity for students to develop an interest in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education. Teachers are thrilled. Students have great fun learning STEM subjects while practicing on the flight simulators or building radio-controlled airplanes and drones. With a total of 10 young instructors, 80 percent undergoing training to become professional pilots, Aviation Connection ATP program is a fantastic way to pass on the passion to bring young people to aviation careers.

Aviation Connection is presently collecting funds to take 25 deserving students to EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh this year. So far, $7,000 has been raised. The Quebec Minister of Transport allocated $5,000! The students are starting to pack. Aviation Connection is now working with EAA to see how these exhilarated kids can be accommodated at AirVenture where they intend to present the first three RC cargo aircraft they built.

Aviation Connection is a Canadian Charitable Organization. Sponsorship and donations in kind or in cash, are welcomed. Tax receipts can be provided.

For more information about Aviation Connection, contact us at ctobenas@aviationconnection.org or 450-969-2247.