Brian E. Mueller Chairman | Grand Canyon University
Brian E. Mueller Chairman | Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University (GCU) recently collaborated with Falcon AeroLab to host the first Arizona AirVenture Experience, a STEM and aerospace enrichment program. The event took place at GCU and various locations around Phoenix, providing students aged 9-16 with hands-on aviation experiences. Activities included tours of Luke Air Force Base, glider flights at Estrella Sailport, simulated freefall at iFLY Scottsdale, and drone assembly and programming.
Dr. Randy Gibb, GCU's provost and a retired Air Force command pilot, emphasized the need for more people in aviation and space operations. "We need more people in aviation and space operations. Look what’s going on with SpaceX," said Gibb.
The initiative aims to inspire K-12 students to pursue careers in STEM fields related to aviation. "If you can get students excited about: How do you fly a drone? How do you fix the drone when it breaks? What are the dynamics of lift and drag? It brings together so many elements, so much curiosity about STEM," added Gibb.
Falcon AeroLab CEO Mark Hyatt shared his motivation for expanding the program into Arizona after a successful track record in Colorado. "They (Gibb and Lambertson) said they’d love to inspire kids in high school (who want to pursue STEM careers) to consider coming here to GCU," Hyatt mentioned.
Hyatt's organization has already seen success stories such as Ella Hurley, who achieved several piloting milestones before age 20. Falcon AeroLab aims to address future pilot shortages as projected by industry reports.
Paul Lambertson, dean of GCU's College of Engineering and Technology, highlighted the importance of early inspiration for students interested in STEM fields. "STEM requires an earlier inspiration," he noted.
Plans are underway for further collaboration between Falcon AeroLab and GCU with mini camps scheduled for January followed by full-week camps in May.
"Added Gibb, “They (Falcon Aerolab) really want to motivate young men and women into aviation careers and get them excited about engineering, science, physics, math and technology.”
Arizona is considered an ideal location for fostering aerospace careers due to its strong industry presence including companies like Boeing and Honeywell.