Inspiring the Next Generation of Aviation Enthusiasts with Youth Programs
From The Runway Up: An Airport and Aviation PodcastShow Notes
In this episode of From the Runway Up, hosts Becky and Caitlin explore two impactful youth aviation programs in Knoxville, Tennessee, that are shaping the next generation of pilots and aviation mechanics. First, they talk with Eric Dragonetti, CEO of CAVU Pilot Flight School, about the future of aviation training and the rise of flight schools during the pandemic. Then, they chat with Jesse Katz, founder of the Sky Program, a hands-on youth initiative focused on aircraft restoration and aviation education.
Learn about the exciting work that local youth are doing, from restoring Cessna aircraft to learning the technical aspects of flying, risk management, and mechanical skills. This episode highlights the dedication of these programs to create a safe, educational, and inspiring environment for young people to explore careers in aviation.
Key Topics:
The origin and growth of CAVU Pilot Flight School
How CAVU Pilot supports aspiring pilots with discounted discovery flights
Jesse Katz’s Sky Program and its focus on hands-on learning through aircraft restoration
The impact of youth aviation programs on local communities
The importance of mentorship in aviation education
The unique challenges and rewards of teaching young people about flight and aircraft mechanics
Insights into the local aviation ecosystem, including support from PS Engineering and the EAA Chapter 17
Guest Highlights:
Eric Dragonetti: CEO of CAVU Pilot Flight School, discusses the expansion of his flight school and the joy of teaching aspiring pilots.
Jesse Katz: Founder of the Sky Program, shares his passion for youth aviation education and the rewards of restoring aircraft with young students.
Show Notes:
CAVU Pilot Flight School: Learn more about their mission and programs at CAVU Pilot
Sky Program (Youth Aviation Program): Visit YouthAvPro.org for more details about Jesse Katz’s program and how you can get involved
PS Engineering: A big thank you to PS Engineering for their support in youth aviation education. Learn more about their products at PS Engineering
EAA Chapter 17: A local chapter supporting aviation education and youth programs. Visit EAA Chapter 17
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
Youth Aviation Programs: Jesse mentions the Peach State Aerodrome and 502 Club as examples of successful youth aviation programs across the country.
Discovery Flights: Consider gifting a discovery flight experience from CAVU Pilot for someone curious about learning to fly.
Thanks for Listening!
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review From the Runway Up.
The post Inspiring the Next Generation of Aviation Enthusiasts with Youth Programs appeared first on From the Runway Up.
More from From The Runway Up: An Airport and Aviation Podcast
Drones are changing the way industries work—and airports are no exception. In this episode of From the Runway Up, Becky and Caitlin talk with Katie Ryan, an airside operations specialist at the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority, about the rapidly evolving world of unmanned aircraft.
In this episode of From the Runway Up, Becky and Caitlin sit down with Matt Bergwall, Executive Director of the Vision Jet product line at Cirrus Aircraft, to explore why Cirrus has become one of the biggest innovators in personal aviation. The conversation highlights the company's focus on safety, technology, pilot training, and why Knoxville's McGhee Tyson Airport serves as the headquarters for Cirrus' customer delivery, training, and service operations.
Join us in this episode as we explore the beauty, history, and community importance of the most visited national park in America—the Great Smoky Mountains. Dana Soehn, president and CEO of Friends of the Smokies, shares insights on the park’s history, visitor experience, and how support from individuals makes a difference.
What happens when a major ultra-low-cost airline shuts down? In this episode of The Runway Up, the team sits down with aviation industry analyst Bill Swelbar and Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority Vice President of Air Service & Marketing Jim Evans to unpack the closure of Spirit Airlines and what it means for travelers, airports, and the future of affordable air travel.
In this heartwarming episode of From the Runway Up, Becky and Caitlin explore the powerful intersection of aviation and animal rescue with Michael Schneider, founder of Pilots to the Rescue.