Aviation and Aeronautics (preview)

Wayne County Aviation & Aeronautics CTE Program

Launching Careers. Lifting Futures.

Wayne RESA, in partnership with Wayne County and the Wayne County Airport Authority, is developing an exciting new Aviation and Aeronautics Career and Technical Education (CTE) Program. This innovative countywide initiative is designed to introduce middle and high school students—especially those underrepresented in STEM fields—to high-demand careers in aviation, from piloting and aircraft maintenance to autonomous systems and beyond.

Why This Program Matters

Detroit Metropolitan (DTW) and Willow Run (YIP) airports are major drivers of Michigan’s economy, supporting over 86,000 jobs. The aviation industry is booming and projected to need over 2 million new professionals globally by 2042. This program aims to meet that demand—starting right here in Wayne County.

What Students & Parents Can Expect

This program creates a clear path from classroom to career in one of today’s most exciting fields. It empowers students to build valuable skills, earn college credits, and connect with potential employers—all while still in school.

Hands-on Training in aviation technology, piloting, and aircraft repair
Real-World Experience through simulators, software, and industry-grade equipment
Dual Enrollment Opportunities with colleges and universities
Access to Industry & Military Partnerships for mentorship and career pathways
Free Transportation to program sites

Three Regional Hubs

The program will be anchored by three regional “Hubs” at:

Davis Aerospace High School (City of Detroit – Coleman A. Young International Airport)
Willow Run Airport
Grosse Ile Municipal Airport

Update: We are now working with Romulus Community Schools to lead the drone technology component of the initiative. This reflects input from Senator Camilleri and a commitment from the Romulus district to expand regional innovation in unmanned systems.

Accomplishments and Future Plans

Progress Made

Convened a countywide advisory group of district leaders, postsecondary institutions, community organizations, and aviation employers
Hosted a Knowledge Visit with over 20 education and industry leaders
Attended the AOPA National Conference to build national connections
Visited leading programs:
- Alabama Aviation & Aeronautics High School (Bessemer, AL)
- Aviation Institute of Maintenance (Atlanta, GA)
Developed a cross-sector governance structure to guide implementation and ensure long-term quality
Received commitments from all 33 school districts in Wayne County, including identification of main contacts for each
Created regional consortia to coordinate curriculum, instruction, and program delivery across districts
Hosted curriculum selection meeting (Jan. 27) to finalize course offerings and identify host districts for hands-on instruction
Submitted a competitive application for an FAA grant, demonstrating proactive pursuit of federal investment

Note: Grant decision pending

Stakeholder Engagement

We are proud to have built a diverse coalition of stakeholders committed to the success of this program

Government & Policy Partners

Wayne County Executive’s Office
Michigan Department of Transportation
Michigan Aeronautics Commission
Michigan Economic Development Corporation
City of Detroit
City of Romulus

School District Partners

All 33 Wayne County public school districts have committed to program participation.

Cross-Sector Collaboration

Local Assets

Sustainable Funding

Timeline & Milestones

Year 1 Timeline and Milestones

Review of Year 1 Timeline and Milestones

March

Identify launch districts
Identify launch programs
Begin student enrollment
Work on “Intent to Apply” process for regional approval

April

AOPA program approval
Tarmac team provides guidance on summer programming
Continue student enrollment

May

Supplemental curriculum development
Postsecondary partners confirmed and articulation agreements completed
“Intent to Apply” due date

June

Finalize equipment and facility design and upgrades
Transportation planning begins

July

Summer exposure programming

August

Summer exposure programming continues

September

Revisit labor market data and consult advisory team

October

MDE Office of CTE first application window for state approval

November

Confirm Year 2 programs, including expansion of host districts

December

Year 1 programs in host districts continue

January

Postsecondary partners confirmed and articulation agreements completed
Equipment and facility design and upgrade
Transportation planning

February

Curriculum development
MDE Office of CTE second application window for state approval

2025 Legislative Funding Request

Funding Request: $25 million

Lead Agency: Wayne RESA

Partners:

Wayne County
Wayne County Airport Authority
Public School Districts
Postsecondary Institutions
Industry Experts

These funds will enable:

Facility acquisition and renovations at airport hub sites
Simulators, aircraft equipment, and classroom technology
Development of transportation systems to ensure student access
Dual enrollment infrastructure and partnerships with colleges
Recruitment of qualified educators and industry mentors
Program design, curriculum development, and instructional materials
Outreach and awareness efforts to drive enrollment across the county

Wayne RESA's Mission

Wayne RESA is committed to building equitable opportunities for all students to explore aviation. Whether your child dreams of flying planes, repairing aircraft, or leading in aerospace innovation, this program provides a launchpad for success.

This investment will prepare thousands of students for meaningful careers while simultaneously positioning Michigan as a national leader in aviation education and workforce development.