Kent State University has received a significant grant from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to create an initiative to bolster the workforce for aircraft pilots and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) operators in Northeast Ohio. Kent State is one of 32 schools nationwide to receive this grant funding to train the next generation of aviation professionals.
The university will receive $419,708 to introduce a comprehensive workforce development program targeting high school students and teachers across as many as 10 partner schools in the region. The program is designed to provide essential educational and training opportunities in aircraft piloting and UAS operation and will target communities historically excluded from STEM, underscoring Kent State’s dedication to extending opportunities to rural, urban, disadvantaged and underrepresented groups. This programming not only aims to enrich the diversity of the emerging aviation workforce, but also to spark economic development and foster entrepreneurship within these communities.
“With this generous grant from the FAA, Kent State’s College of Aeronautics and Engineering is poised to make significant strides in aviation workforce development,” said Jason Lorenzon, assistant professor in the College of Aeronautics and Engineering. “Our targeted approach will ensure that high school students and teachers in Northeast Ohio have unprecedented access to high-quality aviation education and training, paving the way for high-paid employment opportunities and contributing to the diversification and growth of the industry.”
The funding is part of the FAA’s Aircraft Pilots Aviation Workforce Development Grants program. This initiative will address the growing demand for skilled aviation professionals by supporting educational programs that prepare students for careers as pilots, aviation maintenance technicians, aerospace engineers and drone operators.