Southern Oklahoma Students Gather to Celebrate Aviation

by Sandra Shelton for oac.ok.gov

ADA, OK - Over 350 Oklahoma high school students met in Ada on Monday to celebrate Southern Oklahoma Student Aero Day 2024.  The day began at East Central University where students heard from key legislators including Senator John Haste, the Chair of the Senate Aeronautics and Transportation Committee and Representative Ronny Johns, House Transportation Chair.  The two state leaders spoke about the importance of aerospace to Oklahoma’s economy.  Students were also presented a keynote message from Captain John Keilty, a retired navy pilot, who encouraged them to find their passion in aviation. 

Paula Kedy, M.A. Ed. serves the state as the Statewide Aerospace STEM Education Manager for the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and assisted in the planning of the event with Darcy Tessman, PhD, Associate Professor, Department of Education and Program Director of Special Education for East Central University, as well as with Chris Eckler, Aviation Instructor for the Ada City Schools.  

“The aviation community is grateful to Paula. It has been a great and rewarding experience over the years to be inspired by her, Director Ardies, and Sandra Shelton and the entire team. What she and the ODAA have done for the aviation kids in Oklahoma is legendary,” said Keilty.    

From there, students attended breakout sessions at Ada High School and at the Ada Regional Airport where they engaged in hands-on activities and met with university and military representatives who provided them with information about how to further their career pathways.  Students also had the opportunity to view commemorative aircraft and to visit with industry representatives. 

“The work being done in aerospace and aviation education is remarkable and the educators in the classrooms across the state are moving young people into aeronautical careers at a record pace. We are grateful to East Central University, Ada Airport and Ada City Schools for opening their doors to these students,” said Grayson Ardies, Executive Director for ODAA. 

All of the participating students are currently enrolled in schools that are implementing the AOPA “You Can Fly” High School curriculum, a pathway of coursework designed to prepare students for careers in aerospace and aviation.  This year, 117 Oklahoma high schools are offering the curriculum, making Oklahoma #1 in the nation in the number of schools utilizing the “You Can Fly” program.