Local high school students learn about careers in aviation
NAA staff and partners hosted 35 Golden Gate High School students who are attending the Grace Place Summer Campers program for a talk and tour on July 12. The program was designed to educate and inspire students about aviation and non-aviation careers.
The students heard from these Airport agency representatives: Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF), jointly operated by the City of Naples and the Airport; Collier County EMS MedFlight, Mosquito Control District and Sheriff’s Office—Aviation Unit; and the Airport Authority.
Presenters shared their excitement about their roles, some of the interesting things they get to do in their jobs and the unique paths they took to achieve career success. ARFF personnel demonstrated how they extinguish aircraft fires from the truck cabs and invited the campers aboard. Not to be outdone, Sheriff representatives flew their drone inside the ARFF station bays to the delight of the visitors.
Career opportunities at the NAA, specifically, and in the aviation industry, in general, were the focus for the Airport’s talk. And, it was smiles and selfies all around at the EMS hangar when the all-female flight crew showed off their new helicopter and explained their important role when community members experience medical distress.
The students’ final stop was at Mosquito Control where they learned about the dangers of mosquitos and how the team and their aircraft respond.
The tired campers departed the NAA feeling happy and armed with the knowledge that not even the sky is the limit for their bright futures ahead.
Grace Place is a nonprofit located in Naples with the mission to put faith into action, and to provide pathways out of poverty by educating children and families. Learn more about Grace Place and how you can support this community program here.