AOPA selects Rose State College for summer teacher training in aerospace education

The Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission held a meeting on April 21, 2025, where several key initiatives aimed at enhancing aviation education were discussed. A major highlight was the decision to host the summer teacher training program for the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) at Rose State College. This program, now in its fourth year, will take place on June 12 in the college's new Tannenbaum aerospace and cybersecurity facility, which has been generously made available for the event.

The meeting also covered a recent collaboration with Pittsco Education, a prominent STEM education company. Two teachers from Bartlesville were selected to beta test a new drone kit, which they will bring back to their classrooms for student engagement. This initiative is expected to enhance hands-on learning in local schools and the product is set to launch in February.

Additionally, discussions included efforts to strengthen ties with Tulsa Public Schools through the Steam Catapult Foundation. The aim is to integrate aviation-related programs into the pre-enrollment schedules of high schools in the district, potentially starting in the next academic year.

The commission also reflected on the success of the previous Oklahoma Student Aero Day, which attracted over a thousand students. Plans for the Northern Oklahoma Aero Day in April were confirmed, aiming to engage schools north of Interstate 40.

Overall, the meeting underscored the commission's commitment to expanding aviation education and fostering partnerships that benefit Oklahoma's students and educators. The initiatives discussed are expected to enhance the state's reputation in aviation training and education.