State Aviation Journal Summer 2020
EAA AirVenture Oshkosh
The People, the Places, and the Planes! A Look Back at the Highlights from the Past 10 Years of AirVenture
July 2020
State Aviation Journal
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Contents On the Cover
Commentary From the Publisher
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Guest Commentary By Jack Pelton
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AirVenture Holds Precious Memories By Barry Cooper
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This 2009 photo by Andrew Stevens was the top vote getter by our readers.
Focus on Aviation Education Memories: Frozen in Time By Shahn Sederberg
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Reflecting on AirVenture By Tommy Booth
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Reflecting on 48 Years of Oshkosh By Bob Kunkel
Aviation Exploration Base Looking forward to 2021
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Blue Sky Foundation Opportunities on Hold Until 2021
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FAA & EAA Working Together to Address Workforce Shortage
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Features Remembering Those Who Have Gone Before Us
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Military Aircraft & Warbird Review in Photos
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Seaplane Base; An Oasis
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EAA AirVenture: The Place to Gather for Female Aviators
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State Aviation Officials Find Value Attending AirVenture
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Organized Chaos ~ A Photo By Hal Davis
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Nighttime at EAA AirVenture Page 68 July 2020
From the Publisher
Wearing Many Hats at AirVenture As we think about the years we’ve attended AirVenture and how much we’re going to miss this year’s event, I’ve come to realize how many different hats we wear. For me, it’s been that of a state aviation official, acting president of NASAO, publisher, photographer and of course, an aviation enthusiast. To be honest, there have been times when those lines have been blurred. In fact, let me posit that the lines should be blurred. I think that leads to a more enjoyable and more fruitful experience and more importantly, it positions you better to communicate and share the experience with others. My first appearance at Oshkosh was in 1994 as a newly appointed state aviation director. My experience that year was colored in a way that would impact the way I saw and experienced the yearly event for the rest of my life. I am not alone in being the recipient of what I’m convinced was a unique exposure to the world of EAA and what constitutes the world’s greatest aviation event. I do believe, however, that the number of us who had this unique exposure are way too small. What I’m attempting to say, is that I had the privilege of being introduced to this week-long fly-in, drive-in and camp-in by someone who knew it thoroughly and intimately, and wore a different hat – that of mentor. That person was Henry Ogrodzinski. Henry O was a remarkable gentleman who displayed a passion for aviation and for life. He played an integral part in the growth of EAA, its museum and its annual convention throughout the 1980’s under the tutelage of EAA Founder Paul Poberezny. Henry spent the last 18 years of his life as President of NASAO. During that time, he advocated for, promoted, and shared his rich appreciation for the industry with anyone who would listen – and many of us did. July 2020
You will see photos of Henry and read several references to the impact he had on others throughout this issue. Who better to learn from than the one who radiated life and warmed you with his smile! Who indeed!
Paul Poberezny, EAA Founder, left, with Henry Ogrodzinski, former President of NASAO. Henry worked for Paul at EAA throughout the 1980s. 2010 photo by Shahn Sederberg.
State Aviation Journal
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Jack J. Pelton,
Guest Commentary
Chairman and CEO, EAA
“Only at Oshkosh moments” Abound at AirVenture
2021 Will Be - “One Heck Of a Reunion”
This month’s State Aviation Journal magazine has a wonderful recap of the highlights of the last many years of events at AirVenture Oshkosh. It’s been interesting to watch over 50-plus years in Oshkosh of how AirVenture has gone from a sleepy little fly-in, primarily a convention for EAA members and some curious onlookers, to the world’s greatest aviation event in one place and one location on an annual basis. It was part of Paul Poberezny’s philosophy to welcome all who wanted to participate. It now attracts hundreds of thousands of people from around the world, both flying in and driving in to see the largest variety of airplanes, from Homebuilts, to military Warbirds, to vintage airplanes, to pretty much anything that’s in the air is on the ground at AirVenture. The cornerstone of the event – the more than 1,500 forums, workshops and seminars throughout the week – has continued to expand, sharing knowledge, innovations, and information for all. You can learn everything from welding to aviation weather. Another major area of expansion has been the hands-on activities for youth, setting the stage of the next generation of aviation. That focus on innovation has also brought hundreds of aviation companies, large and small, to Oshkosh each year as the place to introduce products and update aviators on new technology and possibilities to make their flying safer, more cost effective, and more fun. Thousands of aviation enthusiasts come to AirVenture with shopping lists in hand, ready to see and review the products and make the choices that serve them best. Page 4
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Add to that those highlights that can be described as “Only at Oshkosh” moments – those unique, takeyour-breath-away times that bring out the cameras, mobile phones and whatever else because, well, you’ve just gotta get a memory of that. From the Concorde to SpaceShipOne to an unforgettable Apollo astronaut
Jack Pelton - EAA photo/Andrew Zaback.
reunion, everybody has those incredible memories, along with more personal but just-as-important memories such as chats along the flightline or around an evening campfire. In planning for AirVenture, we do take pride in anticipating scenarios that may disrupt the week and possible solutions. Typically, those emergency plans and procedures carefully considered center on weather, accidents, terrorist threats, and the like. The one scenario that had not been talked about, by EAA or nearly all major public events, was what if there was a pandemic? The health Continued on next page July 2020
Reunion Continued from previous page and safety scenarios with hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world coming together as a close community for a week are overwhelming. That includes people of various ages and immune levels, not only on the AirVenture grounds but in our host Oshkosh region. You have to account for capacity in hospitals nearby. You have to account for the medical aspects of treating people onsite. You also have the risk mitigation from a sanitization standpoint. It’s an enormous problem that unfortunately, the best thing for AirVenture Oshkosh 2020 was to cancel the event. There are many heartbreaks that come with canceling the event. We don’t get to see the many volunteers, members and supporters we’ve seen for so many years, and they don’t get to see each other. The companies that economically rely on AirVenture as their personal outreach to the aviation community are hurt. So are the local stores, hotels, restaurants, contractors, that welcome you to Oshkosh each year. We’re already working hard on 2021, with the hope that we’ll see many positive developments from vaccines to better understanding of what’s required on social distancing, masking, sanitation, and so forth. With that planning for AirVenture 2021 already underway, we also keep serving our members and aviation with our year-round programming, including Young Eagles, education and knowledge resource, our dedicated chapter network. As an organization, we will weather this storm because of our support from members and supporters. We appreciate that beyond words. AirVenture has a tremendous legacy for all of us in aviation. It inspires us, it educates us, and it gives us friendships that last a lifetime. Come join us at Oshkosh in 2021. I guarantee you that it’s going to be one heck of a reunion.
July 2020
A C-47, flies over Oshkosh during EAA AirVenture 2018.
I came to admire this machine which could lift virtually any load strapped to its back and carry it anywhere in any weather, safely and dependably. The C-47 groaned, it protested, it rattled, it leaked oil, it ran hot, it ran cold, it ran rough, it staggered along on hot days and scared you half to death, its wings flexed and twisted in a horrifying manner, it sank back to earth with a great sigh of relief - but it flew and it flew and it flew.
— Len Morgan
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Tommy Booth, left and Chris Willenborg make an impression of Henry O’s name at the Memorial Wall after a ceremony during AirVenture 2014. At right - Missing Man formation.
Remembering Those Who Have Gone Before Us EAA would not be the organization it is today without the men and women who have served aviation and EAA faithfully over the years. Many of those individuals are forever remembered with their names added to the Memorial Wall, located next to Fergus Chapel on the EAA grounds. The area gives families a quiet place to remember those who have gone before us. Created by Paul Poberezny to serve as a place where family and friends could honor their loved ones in dignity, the first ceremony was held at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 1989.
Paul Poberezny and Henry O on the deck of the EAA Heritage Gallery. Photo taken in 2010 by Kim Stevens.
Randy Burdette with his Harley and Cessna 182. Photo by Kim Stevens.
Jack Pelton addresses attendees of the ceremony held at the Memorial Wall at AirVenture in 2014.
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State Aviation Journal
July 2020
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July 2020
State Aviation Journal
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Guest Commentary
Barry Cooper Retired FAA Great Lakes Regional Administrator
AirVenture Experience Holds Precious Memories I’ve often said that I had the best job in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Having spent 40+ years working for the Agency, I was fortunate to conclude my career serving as Regional Administrator for FAA’s Great Lakes Region from 2007 to 2017. The Regional Administrator job was enjoyable for me for a number of reasons, not the least of which was that I had the opportunity to Barry Cooper represent the FAA in a large and busy region that spanned the upper Midwest. On one end of the spectrum, the region includes large airports like O’Hare, Minneapolis, and Detroit, and on the other end of the spectrum the region encompasses countless smaller rural airports that are critical to the communities they serve. Right in the heart of the Great Lakes Region is the State of Wisconsin, and in the heart of Wisconsin is Oshkosh, the home of EAA’s annual AirVenture event….which leads me to another reason why I had the best job in the FAA: I attended AirVenture each year as part of the FAA contingent. I estimate that I had the pleasure of attending AirVenture more than a dozen times during my FAA career. To this day, I still encounter people who, when they learn that I attended AirVenture many times, ask me to describe the event to them. I sometimes find this question difficult because there are so many interesting things I could mention, and in fact everyone who has attended probably has their own unique list of things that made AirVenture special to them. Page 8
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If I had to list some things that leap to the forefront concerning my AirVenture memories, that list would be something like this: • EAA hospitality and professionalism. From the first day I attended AirVenture, I felt welcomed by EAA and benefitted greatly from time spent by EAA members to provide me a thorough overview of the event. While it would be difficult for anyone to truly digest all that AirVenture includes, these orientation sessions helped me immensely to grasp the enormity of the event. Additionally, I recall shaking my head in amazement when I first learned that AirVenture is run by EAA volunteers, and I still shake my head in amazement when I think of that today. • The airshow events. Whether it’s precision formation flying, vintage and modern day military air power, aerobatics that seemed to defy the laws of physics, or Continued on next page
The author talks with Henry Ogrodzinski, former president of the National Association of State Aviation Officials, in front of the NASAO tent.
July 2020
Continued from previous page even an Airbus 380 performing maneuvers over the blue skies of Oshkosh, the air show events provided me a collection of memories that could not be seen anywhere else in the world. • Visits to AirVenture by the FAA Administrator. Visits by dignitaries are just “another day at the office” for EAA leadership during AirVenture, and they routinely handle such visits with cool professionalism. When the FAA Administrator visits AirVenture, an annual tradition, EAA does just that, but as FAA Regional Administrator, I played a small role in hosting our Administrator at Oshkosh each year. I have memories of: taking the Administrator around to interact with many of the FAAers who staffed AirVenture each year; joining the Administrator on visits to the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) tent each year, where he interfaced with state aviation officials and had an opportunity for some casual conversation with these individuals (“casual conversation” being a rare opportunity for the Administrator);
and even taking in some air show events with the Administrator when time permitted. • Being a part of the FAA team that proudly represented our Agency each year at AirVenture. This was a unique experience, and those FAAers who were working AirVenture were there because they earned it and, just as important, because they wanted to be there. There was great pride among the team of FAA professionals who earned the opportunity to represent FAA at AirVenture. That pride is something that I will always remember fondly. There are many other memories that I could have listed, but there isn’t enough time or space to capture them all. In the end, I suppose I could boil my memories down to my sheer awe at the enormity and efficiency of the AirVenture event, my pride regarding having the opportunity to be part of the FAA team supporting the event, and the friendships that I made, and still keep, because I had the opportunity to join in the AirVenture experience. It’s an event I’ll never forget, and it gave me memories I’ll never forget.
Michael Huerta, former FAA Administrator enjoys a conversation with state aviation officials at the NASAO tent. From left are, Ronnie Mitchell, former aviation director in Nebraska, Kathy Vesely, Minnesota Aviation, Huerta, Cassandra Isackson, MN Aviation Director and Barry Cooper.
July 2020
State Aviation Journal
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EAA AirVenture: Memories Frozen in Time By: Shahn Sederberg
Photos by Shahn Sederberg Page 10
State Aviation Journal
July 2020
For nearly a decade spanning between 2006 and
2014, I had the opportunity to attend EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. My main mission each year was to represent the State of Colorado in the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) tent, interacting with pilots from all over the world. There really isn’t a better place on the planet other than EAA AirVenture to engage with those who fly, have flown, and those who dream of flying. Each year I attended the world’s greatest aviation celebration, it never failed that I would return home to Colorado with new connections, professional relationships, and personal friendships. Many of these relationships hold strong to this day, based on one main passion - aviation.
Shahn Sederberg
Since I was a young child, I’ve been in awe of all things that fly as well as an interest in the craft of freezing time with a camera. After attending EAA AirVenture consecutively for nine years, I discovered this aviation celebration to be a place that not only captured my passion for aviation, but it also Continued on next page
July 2020
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Frozen in Time Continued from previous page
captured my passion for telling a story through photographs. Naturally, I was always drawn to photograph the plethora of unique aircraft that arrived at Wittman Field in an endless streak of flying metal. While the aircraft always looked so beautiful through the view finder, I also realized that the people of AirVenture held their own element of beauty and intrigue. EAA AirVenture is a target-rich environment for photographing the human energy that aviation naturally produces. Whether it was the never-ending sea of show spectators with their heads tilted toward the sky, a “thumbs-up” and smile from an airshow pilot,
Jerry’s One Man Band
or the astonishment of a child’s first aviation experience, capturing the people of EAA AirVenture injected human emotion into the stories I told though frozen moments in time. The people I have met, the friends that I made, and the memories kept, bring me a unique happiness. I cherished every moment I spent absorbing aviation at EAA AirVenture. I attest that everyone should make it a point to attend EAA AirVenture and the world’s greatest aviation celebration at least once in their life.
See more of Shahn’s photos on the opposit page and throughout the magazine.
The AeroShell team on the flight line.
Gene Soucy
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Our military has long been a fixture at every AirVenture.
A couple of young ladies portray ‘Rosie the Riveter.’ July 2020
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A Photo Review
Military Aircraft & Warbirds
Photos on pages 15-17 by Andrew Stevens and Kim Stevens Page 14
State Aviation Journal
July 2020
A day is done. Two young men rest atop an A-26 Invader.
The Day is Done The day is done, and the darkness Falls from the wings of night, As a feather is wafted downward From an eagle in his flight. - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
See more photos on pages 16 & 17
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An F-22 demonstrates its capabilities (above and below, left) during the airshow at AirVenture 2018. Photos by Kim and Andrew Stevens.
An F-86 taxis in after participating in the day’s airshow.
Canadair T-33A-N Silver Star 3.
A MiG 17F flies over Oshkosh.
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State Aviation Journal
July 2020
An F-15 Eagle demonstrates some of its flight capabilities at AirVenture. The F-15 has been the U.S. Air Force’s primary fighter jet aircraft and intercept platform for decades. The Eagle’s air superiority is achieved through a mixture of unprecedented maneuverability and acceleration, range, weapons and avionics. It can penetrate enemy defense and outperform and outfight any current enemy aircraft. The F-15 has electronic systems and weaponry to detect, acquire, track and attack enemy aircraft while operating in friendly or enemy-controlled airspace. The weapons and flight control systems are designed so one person can safely and effectively perform air-to-air combat. The F-15’s superior maneuverability and acceleration are achieved through high engine thrust-to-weight ratio and low wing loading. Low wing-loading (the ratio of aircraft weight to its wing area) is a vital factor in maneuverability and, combined with the high thrust-to-weight ratio, enables the aircraft to turn tightly without losing airspeed.
Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor
A-10 Warthog
An F-18 performs at AirVenture.
Douglas A-1 Skyraider
An F-16 demo in 2018.
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Tommy Booth
Mississippi Aviation Director Reflects on AirVenture I’ve always had a passion for aviation since I was a child. Whether it be at a local fly-in or parked along the highway next to a commercial service airport, I loved watching planes. Later when I was in college, I became interested in photography. It was then that I started attending airshows in an attempt to capture aerobatic performers on film. I had heard about Oshkosh, but I never envisioned going all the way from Mississippi to Wisconsin just to see an airshow. In 2005, I had an opportunity to attend the EAA AirVenture in my role as state aeronautics director for Mississippi. There was no Tommy Booth way I was passing this up! I made the trip that year and another eight years between 2005 and 2016. There is no way to describe all of my experiences at AirVenture. I always enjoyed riding around with Henry Ogrodzinski, who formerly worked for EAA, hearing stories about past airshows. Or, riding around with Bob Kunkel, former aeronautics director for Wisconsin and
Melissa and Tommy Booth, left, talk with Jack Pelton following the ceremony at the Memorial Wall. Chris Willenborg has his back to the camera. This was the year both Henry O and Paul Poberezny were honored.
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EAA volunteer, getting a behind the scenes tour of the airfield. I had an opportunity to meet aviation legends like Paul Poberezny, Scott Crossfield, and Bob Hoover. The aircraft are spectacular, both on static display and in the air. No matter what you are doing, instinctively you are going to look up when an aircraft flies over! Attendees always knew when the military aircraft ar-
A pair of F-22s arrive.
rived to the show site. The sounds of the Ford Tri-Motor and other piston aircraft flying overhead were quickly extinguished when an F-22 Raptor made a hard break at mid-field! I wish I could say I have a favorite, but it’s almost impossible to narrow it down to one or two. For me, Airventure was a series of “firsts”. The first time I saw – the Canadian Snowbirds, the Airbus A380, SpaceShipOne with the White Knight, and airshow performers like Michael Goulian, Kirby Chambliss, and Sean Tucker – the best of the best! Probably the greatest thrill I experienced was when I flew over the airfield in a Stearman biplane. A friend of mine was there in his plane, as well as others from around the country with their aircraft. They put together a formation flight early one morning, so they invited my wife Melissa and me to ride along with them. I flew in the #1 plane and Melissa flew in the #4 plane. We made several passes over the field in different formations. I was able Continued on next page July 2020
Tommy Booth Continued from previous page to capture some incredible photos and video of the entire airfield. That year, the US Air Force Thunderbirds were the main attraction for the event. As we were on final approach, we flew over the F-16’s parked in a row on the apron. So many times I’ve seen the Thunderbirds perform overhead, it was really neat flying over them! It’s a shame that AirVenture had to be cancelled this year. Hopefully it will be back larger than ever next year!
Sean D. Tucker, one of Tommy Booth’s favorites.
A Ford Tri-Motor flies overhead. Airbus A380
Kirby Chambliss
White Knight Two
Canadian Snowbirds
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Doc Makes First AirVenture Appearance in 2017, Returns in 2018 Doc, seen below flying over Oshkosh during AirVenture, is a B-29 Superfortress and one of 1,644 manufactured in Wichita during World War II. Since 1987, when Tony Mazzolini found Doc sitting and rotting away in the Mojave Desert, plans have been in the works to restore the historic warbird to flying status to serve as a flying museum. Over the past 15+ years, hundreds of volunteers have worked on Doc and the restoration project. Skilled workers and retirees from Boeing and Spirit AeroSystems, veterans, active duty military and others wanting to honor those who served, have spent tens of thousands of hours on Doc’s restoration. Countless individuals and organizations also made financial and in-kind contributions to keep the project going. The Boeing Superfortress first came to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in 2017 with an amazing back story of perseverance and made a return visit to Oshkosh in 2018.
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D-Day Squadron Featured at AirVenture 2018 D-Day Squadron, was on hand at AirVenture in 2018, helping to organize the mass flyover of vintage Douglas DC-3s and C-47 Skytrains that took place over the beaches of Normandy in France in June of 2019 to commemorate the thousands of soldiers that died during D-Day. C-47s led the Allied invasion during D-Day, dropping paratroopers behind enemy lines late at night to help prepare for the beach landings that took place on the morning of June 6. The flyover was also part of the larger Daks Over Normandy event, which featured DC-3s and C-47s from other countries. Nine aircraft of the D-Day Squadron flew throughout the week at AirVenture. Three additional airplanes made an appearance at different points during the week bringing the total number of Squadron aircraft appearing at AirVenture 2018 to 12. July 2020
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Hal Davis captured this Cessna 208 on floats at the seaplane base during sunrise.
Seaplane Base Provides an Oasis for EAA Attendees Located deep in the trees in a picturesque cove along the Lake Winnebago shore, the seaplane base offers a relaxing venue apart from AirVenture’s hustle and bustle. People often just sit on the shore and watch the planes come and go. Gazing at as many as a 100 floating airplanes moored can be a perfect setting for a social event as well. The seaplane base is presented by Wipaire Inc. and support provided by Honda Marine and Icom America. More photos on pages 23 - 25.
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The seaplane base offers a relaxing venue apart from the hustle and bustle of AirVenture activities.
Posing at the seaplane base. From left are Melissa and Tommy Booth, Bob Kunkel, Kate and Andrew Stevens.
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Photos by Kim and Andrew Stevens
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A View From the Tower
Above photo taken by Jim Bildilli from the tower in 2008.
FAA air traffic controllers say working the EAA AirVenture
is the “Super Bowl” of air traffic control. The FAA has staffed a tower at the EAA convention since the 1960s. FAA Air Traffic staff, including controllers, supervisors and managers, annually apply to work this event from the FAA’s 17-state Central Terminal Service Area and from its Eastern Service Area. In 2018, 65 controllers, 18 supervisors, and three operations managers were selected, representing multiple FAA air traffic facilities. The controllers are divided into 16 teams of four persons each: One Veteran controller serves as the team leader and a second Veteran may also be part of the team. Each of these controllers will have three or more years of previous EAA AirVenture experience. At least one member of the team will have one to two years of EAA AirVenture experience. This group is identified as the Limited category. The final member of each team will be new to AirVenture duty and is identified as a Rookie. Page 26
State Aviation Journal
July 2020
EAA Museum, A Big Draw During AirVenture With a collection of more than 200 historic airplanes along with worldclass galleries and displays, the EAA Aviation Museum is a year-round destination, combining the passion of aviation’s past with the promise of its exciting future. The Museum is a buzz of activity during AirVenture, attracting aviation enthusiasts from around the globe. Photos by Kim Stevens.
The EAA Spirit - A statue of Paul Poberezny, EAA Founder.
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The annual WomenVenture group photo on Boeing Plaza was the idea of the late Pat Luebke, a longtime contributor to Aviation for Women magazine, that began in 2007 and marked its 12th year at OSH 2019. Each woman participating in the photo receives a free t-shirt to commemorate the event. Above is the 2010 WomenVenture photo.
EAA AirVenture, the Place to Gather for Female Aviators Whether you are an aviation enthusiast or professional, EAA AirVenture Oshkosh has long been the perfect opportunity to connect with others who share that passion and to build camaraderie within this community. The week-long, day and night activities, aerial and static displays, exhibits, seminars, and social events meet everyone’s need to be around aircraft of every make and model. Women in Aviation International (WAI) will celebrate its 25th year of participation at this annual airshow. And despite this year’s cancelation of #OSH20, WAI will host a virtual Connect Breakfast on July 22 at 9 a.m. ET featuring dynamic speaker Vernice ‘FlyGirl’ Armour, America’s first female African American combat pilot (See opposite page). This free event will inspire listeners and help keep the tradition of connecting and engaging with other WAI members and friends during WomenVenture day. We hope you will join us! Page 28
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The WAI booth in the exhibit hall has been an ideal spot to meet with members about membership, scholarships, and purchase WAI merchandise. (L to R), the late Ann Cooper, WAI 28, and Capt. Sandy Anderson, WAI 9, connect at the WAI booth in 2010.
July 2020
WAI President and Founder Announces Retirement at AirVenture 2019 During her annual remarks at the WAI Connect Breakfast at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2019, Dr. Peggy Chabrian announced her intention to retire as president and CEO of Women in Aviation International effective April 2020. “It has been a pleasure to have established the WAI annual conferences 30 years ago, to create the organization 25 years ago, and to serve as its president since its inception in 1994.� Dr. Peggy Chabrian and Sean D. Tucker.
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Navigating the Weather at AirVenture
2019 photo by Andrew Stevens
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Photos by Jim Bildilli and SAJ
Weather in Wisconsin Roll the dice each summer - you never know what kind of weather you’ll experience attending AirVenture in Oshkosh. Some years the heat and humidity can be oppressive, in other years it’s very pleasant. Some years you get a bit of everything. In 2019 there was a downright donnybrook. Fortunately, the storm hit prior to opening day and EAA was on the Continued on next page
Getting caught in the rain are Merrill Atwater and Bob Brock of Kansas.
July 2020
Sloshkosh
Nope, not a pot of gold!
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This storm passed to the south of Oshkosh in 2019.
Weather Continued from previous page job handling the situation, or should we say “saturation�. One weather source says the average high temperture for Oshkosh during late July/early August is 81, with the average low at 61. During the same time period the chance of precip is 39%.
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State Aviation Officials Find Value in Attending AirVenture Over the Years NASAO Tent Serves as Gathering Place For more than four decades, state aviation has been represented at EAA’s fly-in in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, many years before the event was even referred to as AirVenture - the name change took place in 1998. Men and women representing their aviation division, department or commission have found promoting their state’s aviation activities at Oshkosh to be very valuable. “The Virginia Department of Aviation has been a fixture at AirVenture for more than 45 years,” said Mark Flynn, agency director. “It’s a tremendous way to interact with hundreds of thousands of aviation enthusiasts from around the world, and it’s a golden opportunity to invite them to fly in the Commonwealth of VirMark Flynn ginia. There’s no other venue quite like it,” he said. Along with promotion, state aviation officials have
Former President of NASAO, Henry Ogrodzinski.
been involved in forums, workshops, networking, meetings, and of course taking time to get rejuvenated and inspired by their surroundings. “Oshkosh is the center of the aviation universe. It’s where all airvangelists go to get their dose of aviation gospel,” said Victor Bird, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission. “It is very special for Oklahoma as the Aeronautics Commission and Continued on next page
Former state aviation directors Ray Rought (MN), left and Bill Blake (IL). Ray passed away earlier this month.
Michigan’s Matt Brinker in front of the MDOT Aeronautics display in the NASAO tent.
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State aviation officials pose with Michael Huerta (center), FAA Administrator in this 2017 photo by Kim Stevens taken in the NASAO tent.
States Continued from previous page the Department of Commerce partner with communities and airports across the State in an exhibit booth focused upon connecting with Oklahomans and recruiting aviation companies to Oklahoma.� They conclude the week with a luncheon honoring U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe, who has attended Oshkosh for 40 straight years. Bird said 150 usually attend the luncheon that puts a spotlight on the state of the aviation industry in Oklahoma. In a 2018 State Aviation Journal article, Amy LoftisDan Moran with New Mexico Walton, Government RelaDOT, Aviation Division. tions and Strategic Initiatives Director for the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST), shared that in Oklahoma they know the value of supporting their aviation and aerospace industry. At that time 500+ aerospace related Continued on next page Page 34
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Shahn Sederberg (Colorado) and Michelle Lewis (NASAO), put up a banner on the NASAO tent in 2009.
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Danielle Gaylor with the Louisiana display in the NASAO tent in 2009.
States Mike Rice, New Mexico.
Continued from previous page companies were doing business in Oklahoma because of their pro-business environment. “Attending EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh was a great opportunity to highlight Oklahoma tourism for pilots flying in from around the world, support our manufactures at the show and most importantly meet with companies who want to expand, relocate or develop industry in our Continued on next page
From left are, Paul Poberezny, Gary Stevens, and Shahn Sederberg.
July 2020
Former NASAO President, Greg Principato.
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Posing with the FAA Administrator are from left, David Green (WI), Chris Willenborg (MA), Michael Huerta (FAA), Kim Stevens, (NASAO), Vic Bird (OK), Randy Burdette (VA), and Barry Cooper (FAA). Photo by Andrew Stevens.
States Continued from previous page state,” said Loftus-Walton. For the Minnesota Department of Transportation Office of Aeronautics, each year their exhibit has been a learning experience and their level of engagement improves. Cassandra Isackson, Director, said communities have
told them that they have experienced increased traffic at their airports before and after Oshkosh as a result of their participation. In 2018 Isackson said they collected opinions on Minnesota’s Nav Aid and AWOS systems from Minnesota pilots and those familiar with flying in Minnesota. They used that information as they developed their asset management strategy. At the time, they found that about half of Continued on next page
Above, left - Phil Jones, Louisiana DOTD, passes out beads to attract attention to the NASAO tent. The bagpiper (above right) is Brandon Abernathy from the Hickory, NC Aviation Exploring Post. It wasn’t long until Brandon piped in a sizable crowd.
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In this 2016 photo, Michael Huerta, FAA Administrator poses with Bud Coward, Commissioner Emeritus with the South Carolina Aeronautics Commission and James Stephens, Executive Director.
States
In 2017 Kim Stevens, NASAO, coordinated with the FAA to promote ADS-B during AirVenture.
Continued from previous page respondents didn’t want to see a reduction in VOR coverage in Minnesota. Each state that has exhibited over the years has reported similar success in their outreach activities and quick to support the theory of, “you get out of it, what you invest in it.” For Isackson, that included recruiting businesses to their annual Maintenance Conference, which initially resulted in five new exhibitors.
While on the grounds of AirVenture, one of the traditional gathering places for state aviation officials has been the NASAO tent. The National Association of State Aviation Officials has long provided a home away from home to network, exhibit, hand out aviation charts and directories, and just kick back and visit with friends. Shelly Simi, a past president of NASAO, said “2020 will certainly live in infamy, particularly when it comes Continued on next page
Posing at the Oklahoma exhibit are from left, Grayson Ardies, Deputy Director, Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission; Brian Hackler, Senator Inhofe’s state director and deputy chief of staff; and Schellon Stanley, the Director of the Guthrie Airport Authority.
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State aviation officials and guests meet in the EAA Museum Batten Board Room, to discuss aviation issues.
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EAA has done in not holding this year’s EAA AirVenture!” Simi said by publishing this special issue, the State Aviation Journal is doing a great job of capturing the true essence of AirVenture. “The stories and personal accounts along with
Continued from previous page to the cancellation of the long-held annual aviation family reunion due to a worldwide pandemic. “It has been so difficult watching COVID-19 reek such havoc on our community, but we must continue to take extra precautions as
Wisconsin’s Hal Davis.
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Shelly Simi
Continued on next page
From left, Andy Trimble, Scott Brummond, Meredith Alt and Tiffany Novinska, at the Wisconsin Bureau of Aeronautics exhibit. Brummond noted that Aeronautics staff who worked the show were as enthusiastic as ever, grateful to be able to participate in the event – and several have done this for many years. “I guess that’s a testament to the addictive qualities of this passion we call aviation….even after many, many years for some, the event hasn’t lost its luster or gotten old,” said Brummond. (2018 photo).
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Cassandra Isackson, Director, Aeronautics Office of the Minnesota Department of Transportation, and past NASAO Chair, with their booth at AirVenture in 2017.
States Continued from previous page the dynamic photos will be a keepsake for years to come!“ Friends of NASAO, men and women in the aviation and aerospace industry other than those in state aviation, have been a part of the family gathering each year
in the NASAO tent. One of those ‘Friends’ is Kathy Yodice. “We have been going to AirVenture for decades and have thoroughly enjoyed absorbing all of the aviation heritage, learning new things, meeting the legendary characters who paved the way for us to fly, sharing good times, and making our own small impact on aviation,” said Yodice. “We’re Continued on next page
Representing the Virginia Department of Aviation at their dispaly at AirVenture, are from left, Amy Wells, Jason Davis, Kim Wells and Steve Harris.
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Alton Jordan at the Virginia Department of Aviation exhibit.
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State aviation directors, Randy Burdette, left (VA), Vic Bird (OK), center, and Chris Willenborg (MA), speak at an EAA forum on aviation in the states. Both Burdette and Willenborg are retired from state service.
States Continued from previous page grateful to have been witness to the legacy that is “Oshkosh”, as it was, as it became, and as it will become.” Ms. Yodice, an instrument rated private pilot, has been representing aviation legal interests for almost 30 years, beginning her career as an FAA prosecutor and regulatory lawyer, before then moving into private practice defending air carriers, commercial operators, repair stations, pilots, and mechanics against FAA enforcement actions and assisting entities and individuals in aviation compliance matters, medical certification concerns, and aviation-related business and transactional issues. “When my sons were born, I started bringing them [to AirVenture] as infants and they now look forward to it every summer. Every year, we spend hours exploring the museum, aircraft displays, the exhibits, and the Fly
Market, and we have so much fun reconnecting with old friends and meeting new ones.” Yodice says they begin making plans months in advance to attend AirVenture, and make lists of the things they want to find, the places they want to see, and the events they want to attend – “there is so much, we have to stay organized, and every year, it never fails that there is just so much to do that a week is never enough.”
Mike and Jeannie Ferguson at the EAA Heritage Gallery. Mike is the former aviation director from Montana.
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Above, Sen. Inhofe addresses attendees on aviation issues. At right, Amy LoftisWalton, Director, Government Relations and Strategic Initiatives for the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology.
Yearly OK Luncheon Honors U.S. Senator Inhofe For a number of years a large group of aviation supporters from Oklahoma and other invited guests, have honored U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe during a luncheon at the Pober Pixie Tent on the grounds of EAA AirVenture.
Jack Pelton
Attendees include Oklohoma airport managers, pilots, business owners and government officials. Speakers typically include Jack Pelton, EAA Chairman and CEO and other distinguished guests.
Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission director Victor Bird.
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Lisa Powell, Executive Director of the Enid, OK, Regional Development Alliance.
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Organized Chaos - a composite of 4 hours worth o Page 42
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Photo by Hal Davis
of arrivals on the Sunday prior to AirVenture 2019. July 2020
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s d n E s d & n s u d o r G Od e h t d n u Aro
Airshow attendees rise to their feet for the National Anthem.
A future aviator sits with the flight crew on the stairs leading up to a KC-10 Extender of the 349th Airmobility Wing.
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Crowds lined the flight line each day for the airshow.
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International attendees gather. In 2018 South Africans set an AirVenture attendance record with 237. South Africans have long been among the most visible international visitors at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. The country’s GA-friendly policies in part explain the popularity of the annual migration. Other countries with large attendance included Canada (538) and Australia (386).
Ray Johnson, Vintage Village, hosted the Ladies for Liberty while they were performing in that location.
NASA’s Glenn Research Center brought its submarine hunting Lockheed S-3 Viking to celebrate its 40th birthday. It’s the last S-3 ever built and the U.S. Navy accepted delivery of it on July 25, 1978. Lockheed built 188 examples of this type and this is the only one still flying.
Red Bull’s Kirby Chambliss and the Edge 540. Photo by Shahn Sederberg.
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Above and at left - A light rain fell during a portion of the C-17 demo.
B-29 “Doc� arrives at Oshkosh.
Reconginzing our neighbor to the North.
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A relaxing way to watch the airshow. Photo by Shahn Sederberg.
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The moon rises as attendees get ready to watch the night airshow.
A pair of P-51s thrill the crowd at AirVenture.
The Goodyear blimp was seen often over the years.
The B-52 bomber was showcased in 2018.
DRACO is Mike Patey’s turboprop STOL Wilga on steroids.
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A vendor demonstrates flying a drone through an obstacle course. Photos by Andrew Stevens.
Drones Drones Drones: UAS and UAM Come to AirVenture Drones came to Oshkosh in 2015 with the opening of the new Aviation Gateway Park which featured an 80-by80-by-30 foot drone cage for all attendees to experience flying a drone or to take part in an obstacle course. Since 2015, interest has grown attracting attendees of all ages, with new vendors displaying their products inside the pavilion. Demos are typically held every hour and in the evenings
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there are opportunities to fly drones and model airplanes at EAA’s Pioneer Airport. The newest venue in Aviation Gateway Park introduced in 2019 was the Urban Air Mobility (UAM) Showcase. The UAM Showcase included a number of prominent and innovative companies in the urban air mobility industry.
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UAS continues to attract attention. In the drone cage at AirVenture 2017.
At AirVenture 2019, Airbus showcased an example of their experimental aircraft.
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The Royal Air Force Eagle Squadron Ford Mustang GT, inspired by the British Spitfire, was unveiled at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2018.
Ford Motor Company, An AirVenture Staple For many years the Ford Motor Company has supported EAA’s youth aviation education programs by auctioning a oneof-a-kind vehicle that salutes an aviation legend. In 2018, Jack Pelton, EAA CEO and chairman of the board noted, that for 20 years, Ford Motor Company has supported EAA’s programs to build the next generation of aviators through commitments such as these one-of-a-kind collector vehicles. The Eagle Squadron Mustang GT, shown above, features a 700-hp 5.0-liter Ford V-8 topped with a Ford Performance supercharger, an RTR carbon fiber wide-body kit, Continued on next page Page 50
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Continued from previous page
and a tactical performance suspension package. Each year at AirVenture Ford displays its full line of vehicles including GTs and sometimes its Concept cars. In 2019 Ford also displayed Joey Logano’s Mustang GT No.22, shown below. Logano is the 2018 NASCAR Cup Series champion.
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The 2012 Tuskegee Ford Mustang.
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Bob Kunkel Reflects on His 48 Years of Attending Oshkosh My first EAA Convention was in 1970, the year it was moved from Rockford, Illinois to Oshkosh. That year my wife and I looked at every airplane. Now about 10,000 planes fly in during convention week. I missed attending a few years until my selection as Director of Wisconsin Bureau of Aeronautics in 1988 - the Bureau sponsored an exhibit booth. In 1990, I was asked by EAA to help host the Wisconsin governor during his visit to the convention. This was the start of 28 years of hosting government officials and other dignitaries visiting AirVenture. One of the most memorable years was 1994 when EAA formed a group to host the Apollo astronauts attending AirVenture to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the moon landing. I spent three days with Jim Lovell and his wife. The next years EAA formalized and expanded the “host team� to host top DOT and FAA officials, governors, congressmen, senators, key congressional staff and foreign dignitaries. This gave me a unique opportunity to get to know on a personal basis, key FAA officials, as well as our Wisconsin political leaders both in Washington and at the state capital. Our relationship was very beneficial in Continued on next page
Bob Kunkel arrives at the Heritage Gallery.
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Kunkel, left, with former Congressman Blake Farenthold of Texas.
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Bill Blake, left, greeets Kunkel in front of the NASAO tent. Behind the two are, from left, Donna and Jim Bildilli, and Nancy Blake.
Continued from previous page dealing with aviation issues throughout the year. Twice I was able to testify before congressional committees on key aviation legislation. One year at EAA, I spent an entire day with our Governor and his key aid. We talked about aviation issues in Wisconsin several times throughout the day. This could have only happened at AirVenture. I hosted the Governors of Mississippi and Missouri plus the Lt. Governor of Minnesota. On all these occasions, the State Aviation Director was included in the tours and meetings. NASAO for years sponsored a luncheon at AirVenture for State Directors. Key FAA officials often attended,as well as congressional staffers. After retiring from the State in 2000, for the next 10 years I worked in the EAA Carpentry Shop as a volunteer for a month before the convention. This experience gave me a whole new view of AirVenture and the preparation that goes into the convention. Once the convention started I switched hats and did hosting duties. After 48 years from my first EAA convention, I retired from volunteering in 2018.
Kunkel, left, briefs former NASAO President, Greg Principato on AirVenture activities.
Kunkel, left, enjoys a moment with Mike Ferguson, former Montana Aeronautics Director.
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s d n E & s d d s d O n e u r o Mo d the Gr n u o r A
Left - The Patriot Parachute Team often kicks off the afternoon air show and the day’s skydiving activities, putting on a patriotic display of the American flag during the National Anthem. In a second act, the team demonstrated what it takes to be an elite U.S. Navy SEAL, and a member of one of the premier skydiving demonstration teams in the nation. The team also performs a pyrotechnics routine in the night air show, highlighting maneuvers only their team has ever performed.
Left - Air show pilot Jeff Boerboon, EAA 363600, and a few friends considered what might happen when two identical, high-performance aerobatic airplanes came together as one. They combined Jeff’s Yakovlev Yak-55 with another, to produce the Yak-110.
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The Aeroshell Aerobatic Team of T-6 Texans.
At left and above - The Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum in Hood River, Oregon, brought an uncommon aircraft to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2018. The aircraft is a glider that was used to train pilots to fly larger troop-carrying gliders like the Waco CG-4, and both were developed from more common powered aircraft of the day.
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Dr. Peggy Chabrian, WAI.
Harrison Ford, left, and Jack Pelton. Photo by Andrew Stevens.
A Who’s Who at AirVenture GAMA’s Sarah McCann, Director of Communications and Augustin Chabbert in 2017. Tom Thomas is the photo bomber.
Brigadier General Charles McGee, Tuskegee Airman with NASAO President, Greg Principato at AirVenture. Principato is now President & CEO of NAA.
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Tom Poberezny and Red 3.
Kim Stevnes hitches a ride in front of the NASAO tent with Donna and Jim Bildilli.
Former Arkansas Aviation Director, John Knight with current director, Jerry Chism.
Attending a forum at AirVenture.
Former FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt talks with attendees at the afternoon airshow in 2009.
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Steve Summers, New Mexico in 2016.
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“Year of the Tanker”
Refueling Aircraft Showcased at AirVenture 2018
The “Year of the Tanker” at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2018 wouldn’t have been complete without the Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker (shown above and to its right). At top, a DC-10 simulates a refueling with an F-22. An HC-130P/N (near right) flies along the flightline.
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AEB camp participants including adult advisors and some staffers at AirVenture in 2019. Photo by Chris Bildilli
Aviation Exploration Base Inspires Students
With 2020 A No-Go, Campers Look Forward to 2021 By James Bildilli Wow, AirVenture is cancelled! I can’t begin to imagine the disappointment that attendees are experiencing after hearing about the hiatus for 2020 of one of the largest, if not the largest annual aviation event. Most will miss meeting new friends and reuniting with older acquaintances, seeing the largest collection of aircraft in the world including the flying history that fought to preserve our freedom, and aircraft innovations that will carry us into the future. The campers at the Aviation Exploration Base will share that same emptiness that nearly everyone who attends will experience. The Base’s
Post members from Springfield, Illinois set up their tents prior to AirVenture.
July 2020
Jeff Skiles talks to Explorers.
central purpose is to provide a learning experience for high school age young adults who are “exploring” aviation as a possible career. The camp was initially started by Carl and Adele Helmle in the early 80’s as a “super event” for their Aviation Explorer Post based in Racine, Wisconsin. Exploring is a part of the Boy Scouts of America program that is co-educational and career oriented for teenagers. Over the years, the “Scouts” as they are usually referred to, have made camp at Continued on next page State Aviation Journal
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Aviation Explorers Continued from previous page
several locations around the EAA grounds. However, for the past 25 years, it has been located adjacent to the Civil Air Patrol encampment near the northern terminus of the “Red” tram on Knapp street. Today, youth participation has increased substantially since those early days. Nearly 250 youth and adult advisors converge on the Aviation Exploration Base annually. They come from all over the United States and sometimes even a group from England joins in. Most of the Explorers volunteer to work for Home-Built Aircraft Parking, but have been given assignments all over the grounds…including ultralights, flightline ops and on occasion shucking corn for a Home Builders’ corn roast, parking cars and working at KidVenture at the museum. Attendees who arrive via aircraft most likely have met an Explorer because they are the ones in the orange vests who help direct traffic to their assigned areas after they have landed and turned off the run-way. Sometimes, the Explorers receive special assignments which might include assisting with crowd control around special, unique or one-of-a-kind air-
The tram takes Aviation Explorers to their work assignments at AirVenture.
craft. That may not sound that interesting, but one of the benefits that they’ve received is meeting famous aircraft designers, pilots and airshow performers. In some cases, they have been allowed to have “up close and personal” experiences with those “special” aircraft. Altogether, the AEB contributes more than 5,000 hours of volunteer services for each convention. To accommodate the increased attendance, the Exploration Base has not only relied upon personal donations, but has received some corporate donations Continued on next page
Explorers watch aerobatic maneuvers during an air show.
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In 2010, someone flew over in a lawnchair.
Aviation Explorers Continued from previous page
from Sporty’s Pilot Shop, the James Ray Foundation, AOPA and EAA as well. The camp is a registered 501c3 non-profit organization incorporated within the State of Wisconsin. The camp has become so popular that it is nearly “maxed-out” with regard to accommodating any additional attendees. Attending AirVenture as an Aviation Explorer has impacted the lives of each and every participant. Most will choose some segment of aviation as a career, perhaps as an aeronautical engineer, a pilot, a crewmember, a mechanic, or as an esteemed member
of our military services. Others will choose aviation as a hobby because it’s challenging, constantly changing and most of all… just “plane” (not a typo) fun. You know they’ve had an unforgettable experience when on the trip home they’re either talking about planes… or just falling fast asleep from exhaustion. Be sure to visit the Aviation Explorer Base website at: aviationexplorationbase.org.
Jim Bildilli is a contributing writer/photographer for SAJ and Co-Chairman of the Aviation Explorer Base.
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Blue Sky Educational Foundation
Cancellation Puts on Hold, Scholarship and AirAcademy Opportunities for Students By Dr. Lee Siudzinski What am I really missing now that July has arrived? Well, like thousands of others, AirVenture 2020! The decision to cancel was obviously in everyone’s best interest. Making AirVenture safe has always been a key component of this annual event. I have attended the last 10 years of AirVenture faithfully. The event has a special draw and meaning because it is a place and event where you meet your old friends and make new ones. As Executive Director of the Blue Sky Educational Foundation (BSEF), two aspects of AirVenture have a special meaning for me. One, is the scholarships our BSEF/Jim Thompson Foundation administers for students from throughout the United States to attend the very special EAA AirAcademy. Each year BSEF brings eight students from throughout the United States to AirVenture for the first time, but surely not their last time. We also bring two of those students from the previous year back to work as interns at the Air Academy. These experiences are life changing for the students, their
Jim Brough, FAA, left with Lee Siudzinski at KidVenture.
families and friends. After AirVenture was canceled this year, the task of informing students from Texas, New Mexico, and Washington that they would have to wait until next year to attend was a difficult one. In addition to first expressing their incredible disappointment, the second reaction was, can we come next year. The answer Continued on next page
Students and staff at the Air Academy Lodge at EAA.
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Lee Siudzinski, left, talks with Cate Majka and her students from St Viator High School in Arlington Hts, IL.
Blue Sky Continued from previous page
was yes! The second aspect is visiting and supporting KidVenture. I have been involved with this incredible family event since its inception. When it began, I served as the Executive Director for the Science, Math, and Technology Project for the EAA and worked closely with Dan Majka who started KidVenture. He and hundreds of volunteers each year help make this a special place for families to share the excitement and aviation/ STEM learning opportunities together. It is amazing how it has grown from a tent behind the Eagle Hangar for several hun-
dred kids and their parents, to a host of buildings and displays adjacent to Pioneer Airport with thousands attending each day during AirVenture. To all my friends and friends to be, see you next at AirVenture 2021. I know it is going to be the best ever, until 2022 of course.
KidVenture at Pioneer Airport.
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FAA and EAA Work Together to Address Workforce Shortage It’s unfortunate that this year’s KidVenture program was canceled this summer due to safety concerns relating to COVID-19. While the event is not happening, this article will discuss a great initiative developed over a decade ago that continues to this day James Brough, FAA Program Lead National STEM AVSED Program.
Each year, the FAA’s Science Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Aviation and Space Education (AVSED) program shows up in force to support EAA’s KidVenture experience. All in support of the next generation of aerospace professionals. Jim Brough, the FAA STEM AVSED program lead sees this as a great example of how collaboration helps everyone. “Through this partContinued on next page
As the aerospace community faces a growing shortage of skilled professionals, The Federal Aviation Administration and EAA are actively collaborating to introduce America’s youth to the many jobs in aerospace. The last week of July, marks the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) AirVenture, the largest fly-in aviation convention in the world. While more than a half-million people (and 10,000 aircraft) attend each year, a big component of the week is KidVenture. Page 64
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Partnership Continued from previous page nership with EAA we are truly having an impact on kids and building strong relationships across the aerospace community. We all get to share our passion for aviation with thousands of kids during the week.� For over a decade, the STEM AVSED program has worked with EAA through a partnership supporting their shared commitment to youth across the country. KidVenture, now in its 12th year, brings together an army of volunteers from across the aerospace community and the agency, including support from Flight Standards, Aviation Safety, and the Air Traffic Organization through their support of, the National Association of Air Traffic Controllers (NATCA). Each year the program has grown and now Continued on next page July 2020
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Above, a student learns to follow directions by putting nuts and bolts together in the right order. Below and at right, students learns to rivet by making nametags.
Partnership Continued from previous page includes many other external partners as well including Boeing, Bombardier, Cleveland Brakes, the Airline Pilots association and many more. Located in the Pioneer Hanger, KidVenture uses handson activities to introduce kids to aviation maintenance, air traffic control, and flight operations. The program has
grown and has become a must-see part of AirVenture, attracting hundreds of kids who are eager to learn about all of the career opportunities available in aviation and aerospace. These immersive activities encourage kids to problem solve, and work together as they traverse the hanger. During their time at KidVenture, kids learn many skills Page 66
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including riveting, disassembling an engine, troubleshooting electrical systems, and they even learn to pre-flight an actual plane. All these activities are under the supervision of dedicated cadre of volunteers. In all, the total number of volunteers for KidVenture exceeds 200 people each year. KidVenture also hosts an impressive list of guests each year including the Secretary of Transportation, many FAA Continued on next page
SAJ Publisher, Kim Stevens talks with Jim Brough, FAA.
July 2020
Partnership Continued from previous page administrators, and local politicians. This partnership is a great example of how working together, we can have a positive impact on children, at the same time introduce the next generation to the aerospace world, and have an impact on the workforce shortage.
Above, students build balsa models. Below and at right, students put the final touch on props.
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Night Time at EAA Photos by Shahn Sederberg
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The AeroShell team departs for their night air show demonstration.
Night Time at AirVenture is Something to Behold The fun doesn’t set with the sun as there are many activities that continue into the evening, including featured concerts, special educational programs and a fabulous night airshow on Wednesday and Saturday. Over the past quarter century, the Night Air Show, has proven to be a must-see “skylight” for every AirVenture enthusiast. Tens of thousands are dazzled by an unmatched display of precision aerobatics from many of the world’s top air show performers mixed with dazzling pyrotechnics.
Each of the night air shows conclude with a thunderous fireworks display that has been termed as “one of the best in the entire Midwest.”
More photos on the following pages
Shock Wave Jet Truck performs during the night airshow.
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Photo by Shahn Sederberg
Photo by Kim Stevens
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Sitting Pretty Until Next Year See you in 2021!
Photo by Hal Davis
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