Bristow Schools Building Aerospace Workforce Pipeline
Bristow Public Schools is laying the groundwork for the local aerospace workforce with a multi‑tiered educational pipeline designed to prepare students for careers in aviation, aerospace engineering, pilot training, and aircraft maintenance.
Starting in 8th grade, STEM teacher Julie Wilhite offers a course which introduces young students to aeronautics, the history of aerospace, and engineering design, giving them an early exposure to flight concepts and possible careers in the field.
High school science teacher, Vicki Wilson follows up with a robust offering of courses in the field of aviation. As freshmen, students are offered Physics of Flight. Students earn a physics credit while taking a closer look at the aviation world — exploring local aerospace businesses, learning what it takes to become a pilot, and studying the scientific principles behind flying. Key topics include the forces of flight, aircraft systems, and performance.
For those students who decide aviation is their path after Physics of Flight, Bristow offers additional and more specific courses . Aeronautics is one of the courses offered. Another is Aviation Pilot/Drone, a course which prepares students to take the FAA ground school test — a crucial credential for anyone pursuing a career as a pilot or drone operator. Students in this program study weather, airports and airspace, and flight planning, and begin putting together detailed career plans.
Meanwhile, students more inclined toward mechanical and technical work are not left behind. Bristow also offers an Aviation Maintenance track using the Choose Aerospace curriculum. Students in this track learn basic mechanical skills and tools, along with aviation‑specific materials, safety, and measurement techniques. Topics include flightline safety, electricity, measurement, and aircraft materials.
The initiative comes at a time when aerospace employment is growing locally. Bristow is home to employers such as Vertical Aerospace, which has been a staple in Bristow's economy, and Kratos Aeronautics, which will begin hiring in late 2025. Both are expanding operations, signaling strong demand for skilled workers in aviation and aerospace fields.. This expansion gives Bristow students a real opportunity to stay in their community while developing in‑demand skills and launching aerospace careers.
Why It Matters: By exposing students early, offering credit‑earning courses, and aligning classroom learning with local job opportunities, Bristow Public Schools is helping ensure that students have both the educational foundation and the local industry connections needed for successful careers in aerospace. As the industry grows in the region, the school district’s aerospace pipeline could become a model for rural communities looking to capture high‑tech growth.