STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN WEEK-LONG AVIATION ACADEMY

(Van Nuys Airport, California – July 18, 2014) Twenty-four middle school students

participated in the annual Aviation Careers Education (ACE) Academy hosted by Van Nuys Airport (VNY). This week long program gave middle school students an in-depth look into the world of aviation including career options and tips.

Students learned about career opportunities in the field of aviation and about VNY’s rich history. Kids were selected based on their level of interest in aviation and were able to go behind-the- scenes to get a first-hand look at daily operations in the industry which included visits to various airports, museums and aviation businesses. They were given the opportunity to learn from experienced individuals in the aviation field including airline pilots, mechanics and aviation professionals.

Students got an inside look at how aviation operates and exposure to career options available. "This was an enjoyable program. I’ve decided that I now want to pursue a career in aviation and get my pilot’s license" said Sammy Strear, one of the Middle School students. Another student shares a similar take "I’ve learned a lot about aviation through the ACE Academy. I didn’t consider a career in the aviation industry until I participated in this program," Gabriel Hall.

The ACE Academy’s main objective is to educate students about the aviation industry and to provide them the opportunity to explore different career options that aren’t commonly known in the aviation field. VNY’s ACE Academy will continue July 29 - August 2, with the High School program.

About Van Nuys Airport:

VNY is one of three airports owned and operated by Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA), a self-supporting branch of the City of Los Angeles, governed by a seven-member Board of Airport Commissioners who are appointed by the mayor and approved by the Los Angeles City Council.

One of the world's busiest general aviation airports, VNY serves as a valued San Fernando Valley resource, providing ongoing leadership in general aviation, business and community service. Dedicated to noncommercial air travel, VNY had over 270,000 operations in 2013. More than 100 businesses are located on the 730-acre airport, including four major fixed- base operators and numerous aviation service companies.

Annually, the airport contributes approximately $1.3 billion to the Southern California economy and supports over 12,000 jobs. In addition, VNY provides programs to benefit local residents, along with educational initiatives and aviation-related career and training opportunities. For more information, visit

As a covered entity under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Los Angeles does not discriminate on the basis of disability and, upon request, will provide reasonable accommodation to ensure equal access to its programs, services, and activities. Alternative formats in large print, braille, audio, and other forms (if possible) will be provided upon request.