In a brilliant collaboration announced last week, the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) and Boeing are making a bold move to address future aviation and aerospace industry workforce shortages by partnering to offer young people age 18 and under free admission to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2020. The free youth admission is available throughout AirVenture week and will have a direct impact by introducing more youth to the career possibilities in the world of flight.
The Boeing Company is financially supporting this effort for the next two years to encourage more aviation-minded families and their children to attend the massive event that brings more than 10,000 aircraft from around the world to Oshkosh each year. Along with Boeing's financial support, a small fee on AirVenture advanced-purchase adult admissions and value-added opportunities such as the Aviators Club will support this free admission opportunity for young people.
“All of us in aviation, and related industries are focused on attracting young people to our community, where outstanding careers are available on many levels and in many market segments,” said Dave Chaimson, EAA’s vice president of business development and membership. “There’s no better place to demonstrate the possibilities than at Oshkosh each year, during the World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration. Thanks to support from Boeing, who shares our same mission and values when it comes to talent development, our entire partner base will be able to showcase countless career opportunities that will be incredibly fulfilling and potentially life-changing for those youth attending AirVenture this summer.”
Jack J. Pelton, EAA’s CEO and chairman of the board said that one of EAA’s core missions is growing participation in aviation, and in 2019 after EAA reduced admission costs for students, the event saw an increased number of families coming to AirVenture. “Inspiring young people and giving them a first look at what’s possible in aviation is only achievable if we can get them in the gate. This effort will build on the more than 60 years where AirVenture has earned a reputation as a wonderful family event. We’re incredibly appreciative of Boeing's support and, like EAA, Boeing is committed to inspiring the next generation of aeronautical innovators. Because of Boeing's belief in our mission, we can invite youth from around the world to experience AirVenture at no cost,” Pelton said.
The program is designed to “encourage the natural curiosity of young people,” according to William Ampofo, vice president of business aviation, general aviation, and OEM services, Boeing Global Services. “At Boeing, we aim to inspire and prepare the next generation of innovators, and EAA AirVenture provides a unique opportunity to accomplish that mission. We are proud to provide an opportunity for thousands of youth to experience this world-class event, and be inspired to use their talents, creativity, and vision for the future of aviation,” Ampofo said.
The 68th annual EAA fly-in convention will be July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport. Complete admission pricing and advance online purchase is currently available on the EAA website.
