September 27, 2019
SIU to host ‘Girls in Aviation’ program that explores careers
CARBONDALE, Ill. — Students from elementary school to high school who have an interest in aviation have an opportunity next week to learn more about the aviation industry Oct. 5 at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
“Girls In Aviation Day,” presented by the SIU aviation program’s Women in Aviation Saluki Aviators chapter, is designed to provide girls with hands-on aviation-related experiences. The event, which has been going on since 2014, focuses on encouraging and supporting girls to become involved in the aviation industry in the future.
The free event is from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Participants are asked to bring a bag lunch.
Event consists of aviation-themed activities
The program will be in SIU’s Transportation Education Center and the aviation technologies hangar at Southern Illinois Airport between Carbondale and Murphysboro. Students will receive information on where to meet when they register.
Registration closes Oct. 3. It is recommended participating students be 7 years old or above.
The activities will be taught and led by aviation professionals in a real pilot and mechanic training environment. Students will be able to see the planes, fly in flight simulators and participate in other fun activities.
Registration information
Parents can sign their daughters up by emailing Olivia Vincent, president of SIU’s Women in Aviation registered student organization, at olivia.vincent@siu.edu. Please include the child’s name, age, shirt size and emergency contact information.
Excellent future career potential
The 2019 Boeing Pilot and Technician Outlook predicts that there will be a large need for people within the aviation industry over the next 20 years.
Experts predict 804,000 new civil aviation pilots, 769,000 new maintenance technicians and 914,000 new cabin crew for a worldwide fleet in commercial and business aviation and civil helicopter industries.