Greenville Technical Charter High School to receive national grant

Greenville Technical Charter High School (GTCHS) is one of 17 schools in the United States selected by American Airlines to receive a Flight Education Grant. The grant will fund equipment and related costs for Exploration Flights, also known as Discovery Flights, that use unmanned aerial systems.  These flights motivate prospective aviation students with an initial and authentic flight experience. American Airlines stated that they are “honored to be a part of what’s going on at GTCHS. Judging by the dedication of their teachers and school administrators, we are certain these kids have bright aviation futures ahead and look forward to seeing them in the industry soon.”

GTCHS is one of 70 schools in the U.S. and the only high school in South Carolina selected by the Aircraft Owners and Pilot Association to offer the Aircraft Owners and Pilot Association (AOPA) High School STEM Curriculum. The AOPA curriculum is a comprehensive four-year program aligned to rigorous math and science standards. In addition to future pilots, the program provides a pathway for future engineers and aircraft technicians.  Carl Washburn, Head of the Greenville Technical College Aircraft Maintenance Department, says, “The flight and aerodynamic theory you (use to) train your high school students has proven to give your students a head start in our aviation program.”

The 2019 Boeing Pilot and Technician Outlook forecast predicts that 804,000 new civil aviation pilots and 769,000 new maintenance technicians will be needed to fly and maintain the world’s fleet over the next 20 years. As a public charter school and middle college located on the Barton Campus of Greenville Technical College, GTCHS is in a unique position to encourage young people to pursue careers in the aviation industry. The school is committed to providing equitable opportunities for all students to acquire an education that prepares them to be citizens, lifelong learners and a part of a global workforce.