Our Programs

ACE Academies

The Aviation Career Education (ACE) Academy is a weeklong, immersive program for high school students ages 13–18 that introduces participants to the skills, career pathways, and opportunities available across the aerospace industry. Through hands-on learning, industry exposure, and mentorship, students explore fields such as aviation, aerospace engineering, and drone technology while building confidence and clarity around their future career goals.

Students gain firsthand insight into aerospace careers through instruction in flight theory and aviation history, orientation flights, and behind-the-scenes field trips to aerospace facilities. These real-world experiences help participants understand how classroom learning connects to high-demand careers and emerging technologies.

The ACE Academy intentionally reaches students from special populations in aerospace, helping ensure the talent pipeline reflects the full breadth of available potential. Student feedback consistently highlights the program’s impact in expanding awareness, strengthening career aspirations, and helping students see themselves in aerospace professions.

What began more than 30 years ago as a local, in-person program has grown into a global initiative. Today, ACE Academies engage students from across the United States and internationally—including participants from Ghana, China, Nigeria, Taiwan, and the Philippines—impacting more than 4,000 youth to date and inspiring the next generation of aerospace professionals.

FAA Part 107 Drone Program

The ACP FAA Part 107 Drone Program prepares students through its Career Technical Education (CTE) approved curriculum and adult learners for the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification exam. Participants build foundational knowledge in airspace, weather, flight operations, safety, and federal regulations, supported by hands-on experience with drone technology.

The program introduces career pathways across aerospace, aviation, construction, public safety, and advanced technologies to help learners become workforce-ready for a growing industry.

Tips for Selecting a Career Pathway

  • fas fa-check Check eligibility early: Many programs require U.S. work authorization, valid medical certificates (for pilot), certain licenses or certifications (for maintenance/dispatcher). For example, United’s Aviate program requires a valid U.S. work right and FAA medical. (United Aviate)
  • fas fa-check Understand what you’re committing to: Some pathways may require time with regional carriers, or training in partner schools, or apprenticeships that include on-the-job work.
  • fas fa-check Look at the timeline & cost: Pilot training can be expensive unless sponsored. Some apprenticeship programs are paid or subsidized (e.g., Boeing, Airbus apprenticeships cover tuition in some cases).
  • fas fa-check Location matters: Many programs are tied to specific geographic locations (for example Airbus in Mobile, AL). Ensure you can relocate if required.
  • fas fa-check Maintenance vs Pilot vs Dispatcher: These career tracks differ greatly (skills required, education/training required, pay scale, schedule). Choose based on your interests and physical/medical suitability.
  • fas fa-check Stay aware of application windows: Many of these programs open applications only at certain times (e.g., apprenticeship cohorts) and fill up quickly.

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you're a student, parent, or educator, we have a program that's right for you. Join us in building the future of aerospace.
Aerospace Career Pathways Foundation – Bridging Dreams and Opportunity.

Quick Links

Contact us

121 Pearl Street, Suite A
Ypsilanti, MI 48197

Subscribe to our newsletter