The aviation and aerospace fields are growing at a remarkable pace, and the demand for skilled professionals is rising throughout Illinois and across the country. When students are introduced to aviation and STEM concepts early, they gain the confidence and knowledge needed to pursue meaningful, high paying careers in technical fields, engineering, and professional flight.

Investing in aviation and CTE education prepares students for real world workforce needs, encourages creativity and innovation, and strengthens the competitive future of our state. By exposing students to aviation in their primary and secondary years, we give them access to opportunities that can change the trajectory of their lives and expand the talent pipeline for an industry that depends on the next generation.

Sky Tribe works directly with schools to integrate aviation content into existing STEM and CTE programs and to make aviation education accessible to students in every region of Illinois.

The aviation industry continues to face shortages in pilots, technicians, engineers, air traffic controllers, aerospace specialists, and skilled technical workers. Major organizations, including Boeing and AOPA, report that maintaining a strong aviation workforce will rely on early training, structured programming, and intentional career pathways.

Many companies across Illinois struggle to fill workforce gaps because students are not exposed to aviation at a young age. Sky Tribe is working to change that. Through hands-on learning, partnerships with aviation schools, and collaboration with CTE centers statewide, we help students build the skills and mindset needed to pursue further education and future careers in aviation.

A strong aviation workforce drives economic growth, keeps Illinois competitive, and inspires new technologies, new ideas, and new innovations. When we invest in aviation education, we invest in the future of our state.