Altus high school receives aerospace grant

ALTUS — The Oklahoma Aerospace and Aeronautics Commission approved funding for multiple projects across the state in October 2024.

One of those projects includes assisting Altus High School students prepare for careers in aerospace.

Projects mentioned include statewide airport construction, new non-stop flight incentives for OKC Will Rogers international Airport and educational initiatives designed to improve the aviation classroom laboratory environment in statewide schools, according to a press release.

The commission gave grants to many other entities, including $300,000 for classroom lab improvement to aerospace education institutions across the state, the release said. One such entity was Altus High School, which received $40,000.

Emily Jones, Aerospace/Aeronautics and Science teacher at AHS, said they plan to provide skills and knowledge of careers in aerospace in Oklahoma, offering AOPA (Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association) aviation 1 and 2. They currently have 40 students enrolled in the high school program (their only program) and plan to expand district-wide in the future.

With the grant, they will be able to offer students hands-on experience for the largest growing industry in the state, Jones said.

“Aviation and Aeronautics is a leading industry in our state, second only to oil and gas production,” Jones said. “We are showing our students that they can remain in Oklahoma and have as many opportunities for successful careers.”

The students and staff were ecstatic to get the opportunity to expand their knowledge of aviation and aeronautics and “all it has to offer,” Jones said. They are currently setting up a room which will be completed in January.