Aviation Education & Career Expo
19th Annual Aviation Education & Career Expo “Dream it Today, Live it Tomorrow”
Join us for the 19th Aviation Education & Career Expo, hosted by Paragon Aviation Group and Rider Jet Center (KHGR), 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!
Friday, November 7, 2025
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, having granted over $1.7 million in scholarships to date.
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.
UPDATE: Student registration closed
Vendor Setup
Early Setup: November 6th, 1 PM - 4 PM
Morning of the Event: 7 AM - 8 AM
Doors Open for Students: 8:30 AM
Event Begins Promptly: 9:00 AM
We are now accepting applications for the 2025 Scholarships. 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.
2025 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.
Share your goals for flight training and your long-term career aspirations. How do you plan to achieve these training objectives, and how would receiving this scholarship help you pursue your dream of becoming a pilot?
Question Option #2:
Choose any aircraft and create a logbook or journal that details a one-week road trip journey. As you document your adventure, consider the following: Where are you flying? What destinations or stops are included? Who is accompanying you? Most importantly, what is the mission or purpose behind your journey?
Former Naval Aviator Michah Lenox "Snoop" (Demo)
A retired U.S. Navy F/A‑18 Super Hornet strike fighter pilot, Micah "Snoop" Lenox now serves as an L‑39 Albatros jet demonstrator and instructor with Up and Ready Flight Support.
He has appeared at aviation events such as the Rider Jet Center Aviation Education & Career Expo, delivering high‑performance demo flights and mentorship to aspiring aviators.
U.S. Army Golden Knights (Demonstration Team)
The U.S. Army Golden Knights are the elite parachute demonstration and competition team of the U.S. Army.
They frequently appear at major aviation and community events, showcasing precision free‑fall parachuting, aerial demonstration jumps, and public outreach focused on teamwork and service.
Taylor Warren — Potomac TRACON Air Traffic Controller
Taylor Warren is an air traffic controller at Potomac Consolidated TRACON (PCT), the terminal radar control center managing the Washington, D.C. metro and surrounding regional airspace, including Dulles, National Airport, BWI, and Richmond. He participates actively in the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA), including advocacy and congressional engagement regarding controller staffing and safety regulations.
Washington County Police K‑9 Unit (Demonstration)
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office K‑9 Unit regularly participates in community events such as the Washington County K9 Trials and National Night Out, where deputies and their police dogs (e.g. Sammi, Creed, Mauser) perform public demonstrations of detection skills, obedience, and teamwork.
Young Park — Executive Chef, First Chime In‑Flight Catering
Young Park is the founder and executive chef of First Chime, a boutique in-flight catering firm operating from the Washington, D.C. metro area (Frederick, MD). A classically trained chef and former corporate/jets flight attendant, she launched her business in Seoul before relocating to the U.S.
Her meals, served to major airports like IAD, DCA, and BWI, are bespoke, high-end, and crafted to clients’ dietary preferences. First Chime also offers private dining and corporate flight attendant training.
South Mountain Aviation — Maintenance Demonstration Team
South Mountain Aviation, founded in 2024 and based at Rider Jet Center in Hagerstown, MD, is a rapidly growing aviation maintenance and avionics firm. Within just one year, the company has developed a niche in servicing light and very light corporate jets (e.g. Gulfstream, Citation, Hawker), offering services like heavy checks, avionics repair, AOG mobile response, and interior restoration.
They also conduct public maintenance demonstrations at expos like the Rider Jet Center show.
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: In Memory of 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 LeRoy W. Homer Jr.
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.
The Foundation awards two flight scholarships annually to obtain private pilot certification.
Legacy Award: In memory of Yong-Sung Park
Yong-Sung Park was the brother of Young Park, our First Chime owner. This Legacy Award is in his honor for all the love, encouragement and courage he instilled in Young, to chase her dreams. Love of food, hospitality, and perfection. Elevating all things "Aviation" and "Culinary Experience" into the world of private flights.
This award is an amazing opportunity for a student to combine aviation dreams with culinary arts and create something extraordinary, in memory of someone unforgettable.
Legacy Award: In memory of Sarah Thompson
Sarah, an original co-creator of The Aviation Education & Career Expo, was highly regarded by her aviation industry colleagues.
This very event would have been impossible without her. Sarah's legacy will live in the hearts and minds of everyone who interacted with her and those she touched, but never met, like all of you here today. It is with great honor that we award this year’s Sarah Thompson Legacy Scholarship Award – courtesy of The Hoxton Agency and Creating Lift.
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 built roughly 1000 homes in Washington County. But, the very last house he built, and the one he was the proudest of, was Brooke’s House. Dave Rider was the contractor, and he made the Brooke’s House dream possible, due to his endless support and generosity. Brooke’s House, a sober house for women, officially opened in early 2019 for outpatient treatment, residential help, and support. Brooke’s House inspires women to grow and change and provides transitional recovery. 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. He piloted countless different types of aircraft, including the L-39 military jet trainer, helicopters, small and medium jets, fixed wing experimental planes, amphibius planes, and many other aircraft. While he loved to travel, he usually was never away from Hagerstown for more than a week.
Ben Rider worked alongside his father for many years, and upon Dave's passing in 2019, Ben has grown the FBO and its services. In 2025, to honor his father, Ben Rider accepted the Aerospace and Defense Review Top FBO Service Award.
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!
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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 reach out via email at expo@paragonaviationgroup.com or call Julie O’Brien at 240-409-0712.
We look forward to seeing you there!
