Cameron University launches summer academy while Oklahoma aviation programs seek funding

The Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission convened on August 21, 2025, to discuss funding for various educational programs aimed at enhancing aerospace and aviation knowledge among students across the state. The meeting highlighted several initiatives, showcasing the commitment to fostering interest in STEM fields, particularly in aeronautics.

One of the key discussions centered around Cameron University’s proposed summer academy in aerospace engineering and applied mathematics. Dr. Anne Nalley emphasized the importance of the program, which aims to engage middle school students, both boys and girls, in hands-on learning experiences related to physics and aeronautics. The academy, scheduled for June 2025, received a funding recommendation of $3,268. Dr. Nalley expressed her enthusiasm for the program, noting its potential to inspire future generations in the field of aerospace.

The commission also reviewed the FIRES Initiative Science and Technology Accelerator (VISTA), which is set to launch a one-day immersive drone program for high school students in Southwest Oklahoma. This initiative aims to introduce students to drone technology and coding, with a funding recommendation of $5,000. The program is designed to spark interest in unmanned aerial systems and related careers.

Additionally, the Guthrie Edmond Regional Airport and Ponca City Regional Airport presented their programs, which focus on exposing students to aviation careers. The Guthrie Edmond Regional Airport, represented by Caden Young, received a recommendation of $2,900 to support its efforts in engaging 25 local students. Meanwhile, Ponca City Regional Airport requested $7,500 for its Northern Oklahoma Flight Academy, which serves students from sixth to twelfth grade.

Southeastern Oklahoma State University also highlighted its annual Take Flight camp, which introduces students in grades 7 through 10 to aviation careers. The program, which has been running for ten years, aims to accommodate more students this year and received a funding recommendation of $10,000.

The meeting concluded with a presentation from the University of Oklahoma’s Sooner Flight Academy, which reported record attendance and expansion of its programs. The academy received a recommendation for $40,000 to continue its efforts in providing aviation education to K-12 students.

Overall, the commission's discussions underscored a strong commitment to enhancing aerospace education in Oklahoma, with various programs receiving support to inspire and prepare the next generation of aviation professionals. The funding recommendations will be reviewed in the coming weeks, with the potential to significantly impact student engagement in STEM fields across the state.