The cradle of aviation museum will launch "the future is flying," a program to equip youth ages 17-21 in nassau and suffolk counties, new york, with the skills and knowledge to enter the drone…

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) awarded the Cradle of Aviation Museum a $235,800 Museums for America (CFDA 45.301) project grant on October 1, 2025, to develop and deliver "The Future is Flying," a three-year workforce development program. The program equips 100 youth ages 17-21 in Nassau and Suffolk Counties, New York, with skills and knowledge to enter the drone technology field through a free, three-week curriculum delivered in collaboration with county schools. Participants receive instruction in drone technology principles and real-world applications, hands-on flight training, and preparation for Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification examination.

The program delivers supplementary educational and career exploration services, including job shadowing experiences and requirements for students to develop and present case studies examining drone applications in specific industries. These components are designed to expose participants to aerospace career pathways, demonstrate connections between academic studies and practical applications, spark interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields, and prepare students to obtain industry credentials upon completion. The project is scheduled for completion by September 30, 2028.

The cradle of aviation museum will launch "the future is flying," a program to equip youth ages 17-21 in nassau and suffolk counties, new york, with the skills and knowledge to enter the drone technology field. The museum will collaborate with the county schools to identify students to participate in a free, three-week program serving 100 students over two years. They will learn principles of drone technology and real-world applications, receive flight training, and be prepped for the FAA certification exam. Students will also participate in job shadowing and will present a case study on drone use in a specific field, showcasing career pathways. The project will expand student knowledge about aerospace careers, demonstrate how academic studies apply to real-world issues, spark interest in stem through learning experiences using drones, provide practical training, and prepare students to receive industry credentials.