HELPING TEENS DISCOVER AVIATION THROUGH BUILDING AND FLYING AIRPLANES
STAY Indiana is a 501(c)(3) based in the Michiana area (Elkhart/South Bend Indiana). We are a group of pilots, mechanics, and volunteers that want to introduce the next generation to aviation. Our mentors will guide teens as they build an airplane and then will teach them how to fly it! Through this process we will expose teenagers to the mechanics, physics, and operation of aircraft. They will then be able to use these skills to achieve their Airframe and Powerplant Certificate (Aircraft Mechanic) if they choose, or their Private Pilot certificate should they want to pursue a career as a pilot. These skills will also translate to other industries, such the local industry for manufacturing and transporting of recreational vehicles.
Click on the video to see what STAY is all about!
Aviation-related STEM programs can provide students with unique learning opportunities in the field of aviation and aerospace. Here are some key aspects of these programs:
Hands-on Learning: Aviation-related STEM programs often include hands-on learning experiences, such as building and testing model or full size airplanes or working with flight simulators. These experiences can help students understand the principles of flight and gain practical skills in aviation.
Career Exploration: Aviation-related STEM programs can expose students to the wide range of careers available in the aviation and aerospace industries, from pilots and engineers to air traffic controllers and aviation maintenance technicians. By learning about these careers, students can gain a better understanding of the skills and education required to pursue them.
Collaboration: Aviation-related STEM programs often involve collaboration with professionals in the field, such as pilots, aerospace engineers, and air traffic controllers. This can give students an opportunity to work alongside experts in the industry and learn from their experiences.
Safety: Aviation-related STEM programs place a strong emphasis on safety, as aviation is an industry where safety is of utmost importance. By learning about safety protocols and procedures, students can gain a better understanding of the importance of safety in any industry.
Real-World Applications: Aviation-related STEM programs often involve real-world applications of STEM concepts, such as using math and physics to calculate the best angle for takeoff or designing an airplane wing to optimize lift and minimize drag. This can help students see the relevance of what they are learning in the classroom to real-world situations.
Overall, aviation-related STEM programs can provide students with unique learning opportunities that combine STEM concepts with the exciting world of aviation and aerospace. These programs can help students gain practical skills, explore potential careers, collaborate with professionals in the field, learn about safety, and see the real-world applications of STEM concepts.
The major stages of aircraft assembly can vary depending on the type of aircraft being built, but here are some general stages that are typically involved:
Fuselage Assembly: The fuselage is the main body of the aircraft, and its assembly is often one of the first stages of aircraft assembly. This involves joining together a series of frames and stringers to create the basic shape of the fuselage.
Wing Assembly: The wings are another major component of the aircraft, and their assembly typically involves joining together a series of ribs, spars, and skins to create the wing structure.
Empennage Assembly: The empennage, or tail section, includes the horizontal and vertical stabilizers, as well as the rudder and elevator. Assembly of the empennage involves joining together a series of frames, spars, and skins to create the tail structure.
Landing Gear and Systems: The landing gear, hydraulic, electrical, and other systems are also assembled during the aircraft assembly process. STAY Indiana will be focusing on fixed position landing gear and not retractable landing systems.
Engine Installation: Once the major airframe components are assembled, the engines are installed on the wings or fuselage. This involves attaching the engines to the engine mounts and connecting the various systems and components.
Avionics and Interior: The avionics, or electronic systems, and interior components are installed later in the process. This includes installation of instruments, controls, wiring, and cabin furnishings.
Testing and Certification: Before the aircraft can be delivered to the customer, it must undergo a series of tests and certifications to ensure that it meets safety and performance standards. This includes flight testing, ground testing, and certification by regulatory agencies such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
Overall, aircraft assembly involves a complex and highly coordinated process that requires careful planning, precision manufacturing, and rigorous testing and certification to ensure that the aircraft is safe and meets performance standards.