Students learn aviation from experts
Minden-Tahoe Airport was a happening place on May 19-21 when Douglas County’s sixth-grade students had the opportunity to visit and learn about the local airport and various areas of aviation.
Sponsored by the Sports Aviation Foundation and the Douglas County School District, 377 enthusiastic young scholars were escorted by volunteers through nine aviation education modules relating to their sixth-grade science curriculum. Volunteer presenters were experienced, knowledgeable and enthusiastic.
Helicopter demonstrations were sponsored by the Nevada Army Air Guard Lakota and the Care Flight helicopters and crews. Several of the helicopter pilots and crews were from Carson Valley. The students learned about career opportunities available right here at home for ambitious young people.
A member of the Nevada Army Air Guard Lakota speaks to students about the type of helicopter he flies.
Students learn about Careflight during their visit to the Minden-Tahoe Airport.
Groups visited the Civil Air Patrol, learning about cadet opportunities, the atmosphere of U.S. Air Force military life, and how to “preflight” an airplane.
The 99s, International Organization of Women Pilots performed experiments pertaining to aviation, with hands-on student participation.
SoaringNV ardently explained about gliders, soaring and related opportunities in our area. Weather was next.
Here students learned about local world record flights, and why Minden is known as one of the world’s best soaring sites.
Aircraft instruments and panels were described. Everyone was able to handle instruments that came out of an actual airplane. Different aspects of airport operations, including our Automated Weather Observation System, were actively demonstrated by the airport’s professional operations manager.
The airport manager and a knowledgeable volunteer discussed aviation career opportunities and the Young Eagles Program.
This successful airport event was applauded by teachers as well as the volunteers. Comments were, “great organization- easy to follow and understand the rotations,” and “My students were treated to informative presentations on aviation by caring and knowledgeable volunteers.”
Over 40 volunteers participated and expressed that they learned a lot themselves.
“Wonderful job overall,” commented one teacher.
Successful events such as this one, exemplify the value and importance of the Minden-Tahoe Airport in our Community.
See the original article in the Record-Courier. And more photos in the Photo Gallery.