Does your teen want to become a pilot? SLO County high school launches aviation program
Do you have a teen who dreams of becoming a pilot?
A new program at Arroyo Grande High School — launched as a partnership between the Lucia Mar school district and the San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport — could help their career take flight.
Starting next school year, students interested in aviation can enroll in a new career technical education program that will offer the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association Foundation’s “You Can Fly” curriculum for high school students, according to a news release from the airport.
Students will get hands-on experience in aviation while learning the foundations of flight and aerodynamics.
They’ll also get exposure to local professionals in the aviation industry and will learn how to navigate the steps toward obtaining a pilot’s license.
Courtney Johnson, director of airports, was excited about getting aviation curriculum into local classrooms.
Johnson told The Tribune the program is the first of its kind in SLO County, but added the team plans to meet with other local districts to discuss similar ideas.
“This program plants the seeds of possibility for students — whether they dream of flying, fixing, designing or leading in the world of aviation. It gives them the opportunity to take that first step — right here in their own community,” Johnson said in the release. “We’re proud to launch this effort in South County, where the skies over Oceano Airport have long sparked curiosity and possibility.”
Kristin Anderson, career technical education coordinator for the Lucia Mar district, echoed Johnson’s thoughts.
“We are excited to offer this dynamic new program to our students,” Anderson said in the release. “Aviation offers incredible career opportunities, and with support from the Department of Airports and the AOPA Foundation, we are preparing students for success in this high-demand field.”
SLO County Supervisor Jimmy Paulding also supported the partnership, saying the program reflected the local need for skilled aviation professionals and would help highlight the value of the Oceano airport.
“I’m proud to have supported this program and look forward to the positive impact it will have — not only for these high school students, but for the broader South County community as well,” Paulding added.
Students and parents seeking more information about the aviation program can contact Anderson at Kristin.Anderson@lmusd.org.
This story was originally published May 12, 2025 at 11:46 AM.
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