First-Ever Student Pilot Day Brings 400 Oklahoma Students To Learn About Aviation

Aviation is an important industry in Oklahoma so getting students interested in those types of careers early, is crucial.

400 kids from all over Oklahoma got to get up close with all things related to flying at the first-ever Student Pilot Day. Maxwell Smith is a senior at Enid High School and was one of the students in attendance. With his high school graduation right around the corner, he is focused on figuring out his future as a pilot.

"I started looking for more options as an airline pilot and so that's the goal,” Smith said. “After I graduate, I am going to work on my hours."

With the help of the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission, Smith was able to get a close look at different types of aircraft.

Robin Cavanaugh, a commander with the 138-fighter wing, thinks it is great to expose students like Smith to everything that aviation has to offer.

“Whether that be in the civilian community, in the military, just to give them lots of options once they transition into their next phase of life and career opportunities,” Cavanaugh said.

Along with hearing from people in the military, Smith got to talk to pilots with American Airlines. He is already practicing for his test so he can one day become one of them.

"If you are flying planes for people, you need to know what you're doing and need to do a good job,” Smith said.

Smith hopes this day will inspire his friends and other students to look to the skies for their future as well.