1,500 Students Explore Aviation Careers at Van Nuys Airport

Van Nuys Airport has created another truly impressive, “The Sky’s the Limit: Aviation Career Day.” The airport last Thursday hosted no fewer than 1,500 Los Angeles-area students for a day’s worth of adventures into what makes the industry tick. Participants were also treated to a behind-the-scenes look at the history and daily operations of VNY, one of the world’s busiest general aviation airports.

Los Angeles City Councilmember Nury Martinez, Clay Lacy Aviation, Van Nuys Airport and The Valley Economic Alliance hosted 54 exhibitors showcasing interactive exhibits, 17 static aircraft displays, high-tech video presentations and industry experts. Major event sponsors included Clay Lacy Aviation, Western Jet Aviation and Signature Flight Support.

Students participated in a panel discussion, “How to Enter a Career in Aviation”, hosted by Aerolease/Aeroplex that offered insider career tips from panelists. Aircraft displays included a U.S. Navy F-18, NASA Armstrong Research Center BE-20 King, an LA Fire Department rescue helicopter and a WWII-era Condor Squadron AT-6. Industry experts, including personnel from LAFD and airport police were onsite to talk about their careers.

“In a time when the aviation industry is experiencing a shortage of pilots, air traffic controllers and other aviation professionals, it is more important than ever to introduce aviation to our students,” said City of Los Angeles Councilwoman Nury Martinez. “This is a fantastic event that introduced youth to the many professions and opportunities available in aviation, many of which can be found right here at VNY,” said Jim Hansen, owner and founder of Western Jet Aviation.