Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University’s GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology is collaborating with STEM Flights to host Aerospace Day at Willow Run Airport on Friday, July 25, 2025. The event, running from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., aims to introduce local high school students to aviation and aerospace careers through various hands-on activities.

Aerospace Day provides students with the chance to explore aviation through career exploration stations, static aircraft displays, interactive demonstrations, and flight simulation experiences. The program has expanded significantly since its inception, growing from just 10 students in its first year to over 50 participants this summer.

“Students often don’t have access to aviation-focused career exploration in school,” said Paul Majeske, professor and director of the School of Technology and Professional Services Management at EMU’s GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology. “We designed Aerospace Day to help bridge that gap by bringing students to the airport to engage directly with the industry and imagine new possibilities for their future.”

Volunteer pilots and mentors from STEM Flights will provide free discovery flights, weather permitting, along with personal mentorship for those interested in pursuing flight training or other aviation careers.

“Getting students into the air and offering a new perspective—literally and figuratively—can spark transformational change in their lives,” said Carley Walker, director of development at STEM Flights. “These experiences are more than memorable; they’re the beginning of career pathways in fields that need passionate young professionals.”

Participants will interact with commercial and military pilots, air traffic controllers, aviation mechanics, airport staff, and local Civil Air Patrol members throughout the day to learn about various roles within the aviation industry.

This year's event is supported by Event Partners Crosswinds Aviation, STEM Flights, GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology; Gold-level Sponsor Pentastar Aviation; Silver Level Sponsors CHI Aviation; and Kalitta Charters.

For more information or registration details for Aerospace Day, visit the STEM Flights website.

The GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology offers educational programs in engineering fields such as cybersecurity, construction management, autonomous vehicles among others. It emphasizes practical application through research-informed education. More details can be found on their website.

Eastern Michigan University was founded in 1849 as Michigan's second oldest public university. It serves over 13,000 students across various disciplines including arts sciences professions delivered through multiple colleges within the university framework recognized nationally for excellence diversity commitment applied education further info available via EMU Today site updates announcements related content accessible online

STEM Flights is dedicated nonprofit organization promoting customized aviation education inspiring youth pursue Science Technology Engineering Math careers positive general aviation experiences detailed info available www.stemflights.org