(Van Nuys, CA) Twenty middle school and eighteen high school students participated in the annual Aviation Careers Education (ACE) Academy hosted by Van Nuys Airport (VNY).
“This program gave middle school and high school students a weeklong, in-depth look into the world of aviation; including career options and daily operations,” said Diana Sanchez, Van Nuys Airport’s Public and Community Relations Director.
Students were given an inside look at VNY’s rich history and daily procedures of aviation professions, including airport operations, air traffic control and LA Fire Department. The students learned about the industry and career opportunities by visiting local aviation businesses, landmarks and museums. The students were selected based on their level of interest in aviation. They met experienced individuals in the field, including airline pilots, mechanics, and other aviation professionals.
The students expressed their appreciation for this information-packed program; designed to expose them to the numerous career options available in aviation.
“This program is amazing and I’m so grateful for it and my parents’ support in my (future) career,” said Alexis Gonzales, a student from La Reina High School.
James Kang, a student at Village Christian School, added “This was an opportunity to make connections and learn how to become a pilot and more on other aviation careers.”
The ACE Academy’s main objective is to educate students about the aviation industry and to provide them the opportunity to explore different career options that aren’t commonly known in the aviation field. VNY’s ACE Academy applications are already available for next year’s sessions.
About Van Nuys Airport
VNY is one of two airports owned and operated by Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA), a self-supporting branch of the City of Los Angeles, governed by a seven-member Board of Airport Commissioners who are appointed by the mayor and approved by the Los Angeles City Council. One of the world’s busiest general aviation airports, VNY serves as a valued San Fernando Valley resource, providing ongoing leadership in general aviation, business and community service. Dedicated to non-commercial air travel, VNY had over 230,000 operations in 2017. More than 100 businesses are located on the 730-acre airport, including four major fixed-base operators and numerous aviation service companies. Annually, the airport contributes approximately $2 billion to the Southern California economy and supports over 10,000 jobs.
As a covered entity under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Los Angeles does not discriminate on the basis of disability and, upon request, will provide reasonable accommodation to ensure equal access to its programs, services, and activities. Alternative formats in large print, braille, audio, and other forms (if possible) will be provided upon request.
Following below is the original information on this now updated topic:
Once again, Van Nuys Airport is hosting its annual Aviation Careers Education (ACE) Academy for interested middle and high school students. The summer educational program is open to all middle school and high school students with priority given to students in the neighboring areas of VNY. Students are selected to participate in the program based on their desire to learn about aviation. This weeklong motivational program is designed to educate students about airport operations at both VNY and Los Angeles International Airport, as well as career and technical opportunities in the aviation industry.
“For young people interested in aviation, there is nothing more exciting than spending a week of their summer vacation learning directly from experienced individuals in the field, including pilots, veterans, mechanics, engineers and aviation professionals,” said Diana Sanchez, VNY public and community relations director. “This unique program offers students a first-hand look at aviation careers and provides an opportunity to meet and network with professionals to gain insider tips on entering the industry.”
Mark your calendars for the Summer 2018 academy:
July 9 – July 13 Middle School (grades 7th – 9th)
July 23 – July 27 High School (grades 10th – 12th)
ACE Academy is one the airport’s many educational outreach programs that benefit local residents. Interested students are encouraged to apply early. For application information, please contact the VNY Public and Community Relations office at (818) 442-6526.