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
More info to come — mark your calendars. Over $2 million in scholarships and counting!
Friday, November 6, 2026
Registration for vendors and students coming soon — stay tuned!
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.
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity!
Student registration will be opening soon. More details to follow.
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.
Honoring individuals and organizations whose long-standing dedication has left a lasting impact on the aviation community.
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!
