EAA 932 is a grassroots organization that fosters aviation interest and participation through community outreach. With the help of volunteers, the EAA Young Eagles (YEs) Program is one that inspires and introduces young people to career paths such as aviation, engineering, aircraft mechanic, air traffic control, and aerospace. One objective of Chapter 932 is to expand the current YEs program by implementing a year-round Build and Fly program which provides hands-on build projects and year-round science/aviation education for engaged youth free of charge. This type of educational program addresses the need for accessible opportunities for young people to explore their curiosities and interests in aviation at a young age that can eventually lead to a worthwhile career path, many with opportunities outside of a traditional 4-year college.
The EAA Young Eagles Build and Fly Program provides kids with the opportunity to be involved in a program where they can physically build a model airplane that they can fly. The goals for 2021-22 are to enroll 7-10 interested youths into the program by October 2021 with students “graduating” within 3 months having completed the construction of a remote-controlled airplane and to offer students two separate sessions over the Fall/Winter and Spring/Summer. The chapter has established a partnered relationship with a local club of the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) to offer additional support to these young aviators. Kids will learn about how airplanes are built, what makes an airplane fly, and how to control an airplane. All of this is accomplished by fun activities at the airport.
In addition to the launch of the Build and Fly Program, the Community Foundation for McHenry County has funded, in part, the materials needed to run a “ground school” on days when weather does not permit Young Eagle flights for roughly 60 kids per event. The main barrier to the full implementation of this program is the building structure in which this classroom/workshop is to be held. The chapter community building is a structure on Galt Airport property that is in the process of renovation. With renovations already underway, the chapter plans for it to be ready in September 2021 to begin the first RC plane build by the end of October 2021. The goal for the program is to be able to run all year round. We are asking those who would be interested in seeing this program get off to a solid start to please reach out to Bill Tobin – bill.tobin@sbcglobal.net or Marty Papanek – marty@eaa932.org