Youth Education Programs

 Part of the mission of EAA Chapter 838 is "To provide introductory and ongoing education to youth in order to promote careers in aviation and aerospace." Our regular programs include:

Young Eagles            

Open to all youth aged 8-17, this program provides a first opportunity to ride in a private plane. This is an international program that got its start when EAA 838 chapter member, the late Sam Johnson, donated $1 million to the national EAA organization with the challenge to fly one million children before the 100th anniversary of the Wright brothers’ first flight. Sam was an avid promoter of drawing youth into aviation. In EAA Chapter 838 we hold Young Eagles rallies on the second Saturday of each month from March through November. Our local program includes a ground school to teach the technologies of flight taught by our high-school aged Aviation Explorers. Additionally, our Young Eagles have a chance to "fly" our professional-grade simulator. If you are interested in registering for this experience, or know a youth who could benefit, please visit the national website for a more thorough description, and email us with any questions you may have about our local events. To register for an event, go to www.youngeaglesday.org.

Aviation Explorer Post 218 

As described elsewhere on this site, Post 218 is the chapter’s oldest youth oriented program. Co-ed and open to ages 14 –21, Post 218 is a subsidiary of Boy Scouts of America, so goals & programs are similar to what you would expect in a Scout troop. However, there is an emphasis on aviation and providing opportunities for leadership experiences. The post has meetings and activities throughout the year, but the highlight is a week of very active participation at AirVenture Oshkosh helping behind the scenes and learning every day. The age requirement for Explorers is 14 - 17 years old.