Tehachapi build a plane

We just won a $10,000 STEM grant from Northrop-Grumman! Their generosity will help a lot to keep this program free to the students.

Build-a-Plane today. She's about ready to sit on her own feet!

Diane Barney flew her first flight in the Build-a-Plane Zenith CH750 Cruzer yesterday. Couldn't ask for a better one! If I didn't know better, I'd say she was a professional test pilot. She's going to help us fly off the FAA mandated 40 hours for certification. Welcome aboard, Diane!

Build-a-Plane. Fitting the overhead panel. Building up the wheels. Landing gear legs on (no photo).

It's a new school year, so we have a number of new students in Build-a-Plane. We've also started an electrical wiring session for some hands-on learning. The RV-10 is finally getting her engine mount and her legs! Lots going on.

We're slowly making a machine shop for students to learn in. We're making good progress. Northrop-Grumman, thanks for the metal brake and shear. Hydrochrome, thanks for the mig welder, disk/belt sander, chop saw, We also have a band saw and a mill. Now if we could just get a metal lathe...

Only in the Antelope Valley! Some of the Build-a-Plane students as they listen to the first commander of Area 51 recount some of his experiences. Excellent learning experience!

Another Build-a-Plane student hooked!

Build-a-Plane academics today featured Charlie Baker, X-15 Crew Chief, discussing the X-15 program with students. Needless to say, there was rapt attention. Soon the first commander of the AF legendary classified location will address them. Only in the Antelope Valley.

More Young Eagles flights. Students really get a kick out of flying.

Quite a few working on their toolbox final exam. If they successfully build a nice-looking toolbox by following written instructions and minimal mentor intervention, they graduate to building airplanes.

Nineteen students today. Keeping busy. Started learning electrical stuff.