Summer Aviation Program

Ages 18-21

Advanced flight training and professional development for college-age students pursuing aviation careers.

Program Overview
Application
Meet Our Cadets

The application for 2026 Summer Aviation Program is now closed.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Launching Aviation Careers

The Tuskegee NEXT Summer Aviation Program is a life-changing "total immersion" program that will last for 8-weeks. Students will live in dormitories, attend daily classes which include: classroom instruction, simulators, flight training, and life skill development courses.

Person standing next to a small aircraft with tail number N20437, smiling, on a sunny day.

Flight Training

Participants receive intensive flight training from certified flight instructors, working toward their Private Pilot License (PPL). The flight curriculum includes:

  • Ground school instruction

  • Approximately 55 hours of flight time

  • Highest standards of safety protocols

  • Solo flight experience

A group of people standing in front of the Wintrust Financial Center entrance.

Professional Development

Beyond technical flight skills, our program emphasizes professional development to prepare cadets for successful aviation careers:

  • Resume building and interview preparation

  • Communication and leadership skills

  • Industry site visits and networking

  • One-on-one mentorship

Program Schedule

Phase 1: Ground School

The first four weeks focused on ground school, initial flight training, and fundamentals of aviation.

Phase 2: Skill Building

Middle four weeks dedicated to intensive flight training, solo flights, and professional development.

Phase 3: Certification

Final weeks preparing for and taking the FAA written and practical exams, plus career planning.

Comprehensive Training

Person wearing a headset piloting a small airplane, with a view of the cockpit and sunset.

Our college-level programs go beyond flight training to develop the whole person. Participants receive mentorship, career guidance, and life skills development alongside their technical training, preparing them for long-term success in aviation.

  • Hands-on flight training with certified instructors

  • One-on-one mentorship from industry professionals

  • Financial literacy and professional skills development

  • Industry networking opportunities and site visits

  • Resume building and interview preparation

Questions? Where Here to Help!

Have questions about the Summer Aviation Program, the application process, or what to expect as a cadet?

Email Maeve Brady, Program Director, at mbrady@tuskegeenext.org

Contact Us