Aviation Education & Career Expo
20th Anniversary Aviation Education & Career Expo
"Dreams With Wings"
Join us for the 20th Aviation Education & Career Expo, where high school and college students (ages 16–22) can explore exciting career opportunities within the aviation industry. With industry leaders, vendors, aircraft displays, guest speakers, demonstrations, and scholarships, this event provides the resources and insights needed to help launch a successful career in aviation. Don’t miss your chance to soar into the future!
Paragon Aviation Group - Presenting Sponsor
Rider Jet Center - Event Host
Over $2 million in scholarships and counting!
Friday, November 6, 2026
The Aviation Education & Career Expo is one of the largest and most impactful aviation events in the United States. Since 2005, it has connected high school and college students with industry professionals, offering unique opportunities to explore careers in aviation and aerospace. Each year, the Expo awards scholarships and internships, with over $2 million in scholarships granted to date—and counting.
Co-founded by aviation professionals Julie O'Brien and Sarah Thompson, the Expo brings together industry leaders, educational institutions, and aviation organizations to provide mentorship, resources, and hands-on experiences. With interactive activities, keynote speakers, and networking opportunities, the Expo empowers students to take the next step in their aviation careers, offering the tools and inspiration to help them succeed.
To secure your spot at this exciting event, please register for free by downloading and completing the attached vendor registration form.
We look forward to your participation!
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity!
To register, simply download and complete the attached student registration form.
Whether you are pursuing flight training or an academic program, this is your opportunity to share your passion for aviation and take the next step toward your goals. Applicants will be required to submit answers to the provided essay questions, so be sure to review them carefully and showcase your unique story.
Deadline: October 09, 2026 at 11:59 PM EDT (Midnight)
2026 Scholarship Essay Questions – Start Preparing Today!
Whether you're applying for flight training or academic scholarships, taking the time now to thoughtfully craft your essay can help set your application apart. We encourage you to start early and use this opportunity to tell your unique story and showcase your passion for aviation.
Question Option #2:
As we celebrate 20 years of the Aviation Education Expo, our theme “Dreams with Wings” highlights the future carried by pilots. How will earning your pilot’s license shape your career and community impact? Describe your aviation goals and how you plan to use your training to inspire or serve others over the next 20 years.
Jamail Larkins
Aviation through the eyes of the FAA's First Ambassador for Aviation Education.
Fly right seat in some amazing airplanes, learn about issues affecting pilots or any aspiring aviation professional, and most importantly learn about scholarships and grants to help make your dreams in aviation a reality!
Kristine Yaroschuk
A civilian pilot for Maryland State Police assigned to Trooper 3 in Frederick. She was the FIRST female pilot in the Aviation Command and is one of only three (3) female pilots employed by the Maryland State Police.
Over 20 years ago she was paragliding in California when a helicopter had to come rescue someone who was injured. When she saw the helicopter land, she knew that was what she wanted to do.
Samantha Mitchell
(Black Women in Aviation) bridges the gap between interest and opportunity by connecting:
- Exposure → Awareness
- Mentorship → Confidence
- Professional Development → Career Readiness
- Community → Retention and Growth
Whether supporting a student discovering aviation for the first time or a professional navigating advancement in the industry, BWIA meets individuals where they are—and helps them move forward with purpose.
Washington County Police K‑9 Unit
K-9 detection dogs are highly trained canines that utilize their sense of smell to locate specific targets, such as narcotics, explosives, or missing persons.
They are critical assets in law enforcement, airport security, and search-and-rescue operations worldwide.
U.S. Army Golden Knights
The U.S. Army Golden Knights are the official, elite demonstration and competition parachute team of the United States Army.
Composed of roughly 95 active-duty Soldiers and officers, their primary mission is to serve as aerial ambassadors, connecting the American public to the military through pinpoint aerial exhibitions and competitions.
South Mountain Aviation Maintenance
South Mountain Aviation, not only will service and maintain Gulfstreams, Globals, Hawkers and Citation Jets but sells, installs, maintains and repairs avionics systems for general aviation aircraft, including business jets, twin turboprops and single-engine piston airplanes.
The Legacy Awards celebrate the remarkable lives and contributions of individuals who have left an indelible mark on the aviation community and beyond. These awards honor the memory of those whose passion, dedication, and selflessness continue to inspire and influence others. As we remember their legacies, we reflect on the profound impact they've made in shaping the future of aviation and the lives of everyone they touched.
This year, we proudly recognize individuals who demonstrated extraordinary leadership, compassion, and service to the aviation industry and their communities. Their stories serve as a powerful reminder of the values that drive us forward, and their legacies will continue to inspire generations to come.
Legacy Award: Jason Emeric Brunsman
August 21, 2004 – February 14, 2024
Jason Emeric Brunsman touched the lives of many with his deep passion and love for aviation. He was a student at Northern Virginia Community College and achieved the rank of 2nd Lieutenant in the Civil Air Patrol. Jason served in various capacities including Flight Sergeant, First Sergeant, Aerospace Officer, and Executive Officer. He was an active member of the CyberPatriot team, StellarXplorers, and Honor Guard.
He quietly and selflessly made a significant impact. He was always ready to assist those in need, from helping individuals off the streets to supporting new officers and making a difference in the lives of those around him.
Jason's life was characterized by his love for God, his family, and his passion for the skies. His legacy lives on through the family who loved him dearly and the countless lives he touched, including the entire Aviation Education Committee.
Legacy Award: In memory of Sarah Thompson
Sarah was my friend, and an industry partner. She was passionate about everything she engaged in.
Highly regarded by her aviation industry colleagues, she became a marketing consultant to such national aviation entities as the United States Ultralight Association, AOPA, Experimental Aircraft Association, and International Council of Air Shows. In 2004, she helped create this “Aviation Education & Career Expo”. At that time we had no idea that our “little field trip” would become one of the largest aviation education events in the country, awarding over $2 million dollars in aviation scholarships!
Legacy Award: Fury Gilad
Fury Gilad was a friend of this event and the mother of Shye Gilad - a longtime supporter, donor, host and employer of all things "Aviation Expo". She looked forward to this event every year and enjoyed watching young students pursue their dreams for the Skies. She was especially fond of the US Golden Knights and would have loved being here today.
Legacy Award: In memory of Dave Rider
Dave Rider was a pilot, businessman, developer, construction company owner, engineer, and humanitarian. Dave Rider started the Rider Jet Center in 2003 and was a champion for aviation and business in Washington County, Maryland. He was a well-known philanthropist and a successful general contractor.
Dave Rider was a Veteran of the US Army Reserves, and he started flying in 1967. He also was a hot air balloon pilot, skydiver, and adventurer.
Legacy Award: LeRoy W. Homer Jr.
The LeRoy W. Homer Jr. Foundation is a memorial legacy foundation honoring the memory of LeRoy Homer, First Officer of the United Airlines #93 when it crashed in Shanksville, PA on September 11th, 2001. The mission of The LeRoy W. Homer Jr. foundation is to encourage and support young adults who wish to pursue careers as professional pilots and increase awareness to the field of aviation.
Unforgettable Moments at Previous Aviation Education & Career Expos
Each year, the Aviation Education & Career Expo has provided a dynamic platform for students to connect with industry leaders, discover career paths, and ignite their passion for aviation. From exciting aircraft displays and hands-on demonstrations to inspirational guest speakers and valuable scholarships, past editions have left attendees motivated and ready to take flight toward their future.
Experience the momentum that has made the Expo a must-attend event for aspiring aviation professionals!
Navigate to the Press
Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this exceptional event, which will provide an enhanced experience for all involved. Should you have any questions or require further information, please feel free to call Julie O’Brien at 240-409-0712.
For any questions, please contact: students and institutions at Aviationexpo.school@gmail.com, and vendors at Aviationexpo.vendor@gmail.com.
We look forward to seeing you there!
