Brevard Public Schools has received a $2 million grant to launch an aviation program at Space Coast Junior/Senior High School, offering students hands-on training and career opportunities in the aerospace field. The funding, announced this month, comes from a state education initiative focused on expanding STEM programs across Florida. The school, located in Cape Canaveral, will use the grant to build a dedicated training space and hire instructors with industry experience.
The program will include flight simulations, aircraft maintenance courses, and partnerships with local aerospace companies. Students will work on projects like drone operation and aerodynamics, skills that align with the Space Coast’s role as a hub for space and aviation industries. Principal Maria Lopez said the program addresses a growing need for skilled workers in the region.
The grant also covers certifications for students, such as private pilot licenses, which could help them enter the workforce or pursue higher education. Local employers, including SpaceX and Lockheed Martin, have already expressed interest in collaborating with the school.
Parents and educators praised the initiative during a recent meeting. 'This gives kids a clear path from high school to jobs here,' said John Carter, a parent and former NASA engineer. The program is expected to start in the fall semester with 50 students.