Colorado Aeronautical Board Approves $395,879 in Aviation Education and Workforce Development Grants
News Release
Watkins –The Colorado Department of Transportation's (CDOT) Division of Aeronautics is excited to announce the allocation of $395,879 in funding through the 2025 Aviation Education and Workforce Development Grant Program. This initiative aims to enhance aviation education and support workforce development across Colorado, preparing the next generation of aviation professionals.
The program will distribute a total of $502,461.50, with $395,879.25 provided through state funding and $106,582.25 contributed by local partners. These grants will facilitate the acquisition of advanced equipment, simulation tools and innovative educational technologies.
“Workforce development has never been more important. These grants will help foster tomorrow’s pilots, mechanics and aviation professionals,” said Colorado Aeronautical Board Chair Kent Holsinger.
Highlighted Grant Recipients:
- Aims Community College: $27,315 for an A&P Program trainer, enhancing technical skills training
- Air Academy High School: $30,629.25 to acquire five Redbird Flight Simulators, supporting hands-on pilot training
- Denver School of Science and Technology: $75,015 for the Phase II CubeSat Program, fostering aerospace engineering skills
- Metropolitan State University of Denver: $63,000 for a Mixed Reality Flight Training Simulator, integrating cutting-edge technology into pilot training
- Ranum Innovation Campus: $50,000 for aviation mechanic program lab equipment, strengthening technical education pathways
"Working with the Colorado Department of Transportation and receiving their support through the Colorado Aviation Education Grant has been an incredible experience. Hetty Carlson, as the Education Grants and Outreach Specialist, has been instrumental in helping us build a strong foundation for aviation education at Westminster Public Schools. This partnership is an exciting step forward in developing the next generation of A&P mechanics and aviation professionals, ensuring that our students have the skills and opportunities to thrive in this high-demand industry," said Lottie Wilson, CTE and Iver C. Ranum Innovation Campus Administrator, Westminster Public Schools.
"The support and service we received from the Colorado Department of Transportation during the grant writing and awarding process were truly outstanding. Hetty Carlson and the CDOT team made the Colorado Aviation Education Grant process seamless, accessible, and incredibly rewarding. We are thrilled for the opportunities this grant will provide our students as they prepare for careers in aviation, particularly in A&P mechanics. CDOT’s commitment to education and workforce development is making a real difference, and we couldn’t be more grateful for their partnership," said Dr. Justin Adcock, Grants Coordinator, Westminster Public Schools.
About the Division of Aeronautics
Under the Direction of the Colorado Aeronautical Board, the Colorado Department of Transportation’s Division of Aeronautics supports Colorado's multi-modal transportation system by advancing a safe, efficient and effective statewide aviation system through collaboration, investment and advocacy. In partnership with the Federal Aviation Administration, 76 public-use airports and a diverse group of aviation system users, the Division also works to promote aviation safety and education through the efficient administration of the Colorado Aviation Fund. For more information, visit Colorado-Aeronautics.org or check us out on YouTube, like us on Facebook and follow us on X and Instagram.
