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FAQs

What is aviation and aerospace?

Aviation is all about flying aircraft, from small planes to helicopters. Aerospace includes aviation plus spacecraft, rockets, and satellites. Both fields offer exciting careers, hobbies, and learning opportunities for students who love flight, technology, and exploration.

I am interested in a career in aviation or aerospace, but I don’t know where to start.

If you’re interested in aviation or aerospace but don’t know where to start, there are lots of ways to begin exploring right now—whether you’re curious about flying planes or pursuing a career behind the scenes. Organizations like EAA have programs that help beginners learn about aviation, connect with others, and take first steps toward jobs or hobbies in the field. 


Get a taste of flying: EAA’s Learn to Fly resources can help you understand what it takes to become a pilot, whether you aim for a private pilot license, sport pilot, or ultralight rating. You can even arrange a free introductory flight through programs like Young Eagles or Eagle Flights to experience flying firsthand. 


Learn and connect: Tools like AeroEducate offer aviation activities, career information, and badges to help you learn about different pathways—everything from engineering to air traffic control. 


Explore scholarships and local programs: Organizations nationwide offer scholarships to students preparing for aviation and aerospace careers, whether you’re learning to fly, entering college, or pursuing advanced degrees. Visit the Wisconsin Department of Transportation Scholarship information page for a comprehensive list of scholarships available in our state and region. Explore nearby airports and ask about youth programs. Attend aviation events like EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh where many organizations recruit students. Talk to your school counselor. Connect with local pilots or flight schools for guidance and possible mentorship.


Explore careers and hands‑on opportunities: EAA’s Work in Aviation section explains the many career paths available—not just as a pilot but also in airports, airlines, aircraft manufacturing, government, and more. 


Join the community: Getting involved with a local EAA chapter or youth aviation programs (like Young Eagles rallies or youth camps) lets you meet pilots, mechanics, and other aviation enthusiasts who can offer advice, mentorship, and real experiences around aircraft and aerospace professionals. 


In short, start by learning about aviation online, trying an introductory flight, joining local aviation groups, and exploring educational resources and scholarships—these steps will help you figure out what part of aviation or aerospace excites you most and how to pursue it.

How do I know which aviation path is right for me?

Start by exploring what excites you most. Do you like hands-on work, designing and building, or flying planes? Try different activities—flight simulators, STEM projects, Young Eagles flights, or aviation camps—to see what you enjoy before choosing a path.

How old do I have to be to learn to fly?

You can start learning to fly at different ages depending on the type of pilot certificate:

  • Gliders or ultralight aircraft: You can begin training as young as 14–16 years old (varies by aircraft type).

  • Private pilot (powered aircraft): You must be at least 16 years old to fly solo and 17 years old to earn your private pilot certificate.

Even before these ages, you can get involved with programs like EAA Young Eagles, flight simulators, and aviation camps to gain experience and prepare for formal flight training.

Do I need perfect grades to pursue aviation?

No! Passion, persistence, and curiosity are just as important as grades. Focus on learning, practicing, and getting hands-on experience in aviation.

How long does it take to get a pilot's license?

For a private pilot license, most students take 3–6 months if flying regularly. It can take longer depending on weather, availability, and how often you practice.

What is the average cost of getting a pilot’s license?

The cost of earning a private pilot license (PPL) can vary depending on your location, flight school, and aircraft type, but on average:

  • Total cost: Approximately $10,000–$15,000 in the U.S.

  • Breakdown:
    Flight instruction and aircraft rental: $8,000–$12,000
    Ground school and study materials: $200–$500
    Exams, medical certificate, and other fees: $200–$500

Keep in mind that these are estimates for a private pilot license. Advanced licenses, ratings (like instrument or commercial), or flight training for larger aircraft will increase the cost.

Programs like EAA scholarships or local youth aviation programs.

If I do not receive a scholarship, can I apply again next year?

Yes! If you don’t receive a scholarship this year, you can apply again the following year as long as you still meet the eligibility requirements. Each year is a new opportunity to apply and be considered.

What kinds of education do I need for aviation careers?

It depends on the career. Pilots need flight training and certifications; aerospace engineers need college degrees in engineering; technicians and mechanics may attend technical schools. Many careers also benefit from strong skills in math, science, and problem-solving.

What programs are available for beginners?

Beginners can join youth aviation programs like Young Eagles flights, Girls On The Fly, EAA Air Academy camps, and local homeschool or school aviation clubs. These programs let you experience aviation hands-on and meet mentors in the field.


Check out our Programs and Events pages for more information.

Where can I study aerospace locally?

In Southeastern Wisconsin, you can explore programs at:

  • Gateway Technical College (Kenosha) – Aeronautics with pilot training

  • Carthage College (Kenosha) – Opportunities connected to NASA Wisconsin Space Grant Consortium

  • Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) – Engineering programs with aerospace focus

Check out our education page for more links and information.

Where can I find promotional materials for the classroom?

You can find classroom-ready aviation and aerospace materials from several trusted sources:

These resources include printable materials, lesson plans, and activity guides to help you bring aviation and aerospace topics into the classroom.


You can also visit our Education & Scholarships page for more resources!

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