The third annual Civil Air Patrol Aviation & Aeronautics Business Academy launched Aug. 10, bringing together cadets from across the nation for a week of immersive learning in aviation, aerospace, and business leadership.
The opening sessions at Vaughn College in Queens, New York, introduced cadets to the academy’s capstone project. This collaborative challenge requires participants to research, design, and present innovative solutions to real-world issues in aviation and aeronautics.
Academy staff guided cadets through group assignments, early planning sessions, and introductory classes to help frame their approach. The day also allowed participants ample time to brainstorm ideas and begin building strategies that will carry them through the week.
The second day’s program brought high-profile engagement from both Civil Air Patrol and the aviation industry. U.S. Air Force representatives joined cadets for the entire day, offering mentorship and sharing career insights. At the same time, a New York Wing deputy commander lent leadership perspectives from within the organization.
“The goal of the Aviation & Aeronautics Business Academy is to give cadets a 360-degree view of the aviation industry. From technical and regulatory knowledge to leadership and business skills,” 1st Lt. Eden West said.
“By the end of the week, these cadets will have experienced hands-on project development, interacted with industry leaders, and learned how to think like innovators.”
Cadets also attended a series of expert-led lectures, including sessions by the Federal Aviation Administration on regulatory frameworks and safety priorities, Delta Air Lines on operational logistics and airline management, and an aerospace engineer on design innovation and the future of flight.
These presentations not only connected classroom theory to real-world applications but also exposed participants to the diverse career pathways available in aviation.
Throughout the week, cadets will continue refining their capstone projects while engaging in specialized workshops, networking opportunities, and site-specific learning experiences. The academy will conclude with formal presentations of each team’s project, judged by a panel of industry professionals and CAP leaders.____Capt. Roman VitanzaDirector of Public AffairsSouthwest Region
