Remember what sparkedyour love of aviation?
Someone helped you see what was possible.
Now you can do the same for the next generation.
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Someone helped you see what was possible.
Now you can do the same for the next generation.
With the AOPA Foundation Volunteer Program, you'll connect with high school students through the AOPA Foundation's aviation STEM curriculum.
Help students understand what aviation actually looks like beyond the textbook.
Talk about how you got started and the path that brought you into aviation.
Share your aviation story and connect learning to real-world opportunities.
The speaker’s real-life experience showed us that aviation doesn’t have to be a career to be meaningful. That perspective was inspiring and memorable.12th-grade student
For many students, this is the first time they'll hear directly from someone in aviation or see a path that feels real.
The program is open to all AOPA members, making it easier than ever to get involved.
Many experiences take as little as one class period.
Participate in a way that works for your schedule.
Bring your aviation experience to students, whether in the classroom or at your local airport.
We'll support you every step of the way.
Seeing real aviation equipment brought classroom concepts to life. Students are eager to do it again.School representative, FL
It’s a way to stay connected to aviation in a meaningful way. It’s a chance to share something that has shaped your life. And it’s a moment you can walk away from knowing you made a real difference, one student at a time.
Answers to common questions.
The program is open to AOPA members from all areas of aviation. You don't need to work in aviation to volunteer — your story and experiences can inspire and educate.
Signing up is simple. Once you express interest, you'll be guided through the next steps and matched with opportunities that fit.
You'll connect with students using the AOPA Foundation aviation STEM curriculum and share what your experience in aviation looks like day to day.
No. Many volunteers participate through classroom presentations and conversations with students. Some volunteers also host students at a local airport, aviation facility, or around their aircraft when appropriate. Owning an aircraft is not required. What matters most is your willingness to share your experience and help students explore opportunities in aviation.
Most volunteer experiences take as little as 45 minutes. There's no long-term commitment, so you can participate in a way that works for your schedule.
We do our best to connect volunteers with participating schools based on location and availability, though specific placements can't be guaranteed.
In some cases, volunteers may be able to coordinate or participate alongside others, depending on school and program needs.
No formal teaching experience is required. If you're comfortable sharing your story and engaging with students, you already have what you need.