Applications have opened for a new round of education funding aimed at strengthening the future workforce in the aviation and aerospace industries, with the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics inviting schools and organisations to apply before the May 31 deadline.
The agency has launched its Aviation Education Grant Program for the 2026–2027 academic year, offering financial support to initiatives that promote aerospace and aviation learning from primary school through to post-secondary education. The programme forms part of broader efforts to increase participation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields and prepare students for careers in a sector that remains a significant contributor to the state’s economy.
Grants distributed through the programme are drawn from more than $500,000 in annual funding allocated by the agency to educational programmes across the state. The funding is designed to support initiatives that expose young people to aviation and aerospace careers while developing the technical skills required by employers in the industry.
The announcement encourages schools and aviation-focused organisations to participate in the programme and submit applications before the closing date.
“Encourage Aerospace & Aviation in your school or aviation organization! Click to start your application today…”
Applicants are also directed to the official documentation required to participate in the programme.
“Download School Year 2026-2027 Aviation Education Grant Application Form”
The initiative is part of a broader strategy by the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics to support long-term workforce development within the aviation sector. State officials view early exposure to aerospace education as a key mechanism for addressing talent shortages and encouraging students to pursue technical careers after graduation.
According to the agency, programmes eligible for support include classroom initiatives, training projects, and other educational activities designed to promote awareness of aviation and aerospace careers. The funding is available to a wide range of educational institutions and organisations working with students from early schooling through higher education.
“The grant application is now open for the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics Education Grant Program. Applications for the 2026-2027 academic year are due on May 31, 2026. Grants are for education programs that are aviation and aerospace minded for primary through post-secondary education.”
The agency notes that the programme forms part of a larger effort to expand STEM engagement among young people in Oklahoma and support a pipeline of skilled workers for the aviation industry.
“The program funds are part of more than $500,000 the agency annually provides to programs statewide aimed at exposing more Oklahoma young people to STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) and careers in the aviation and aerospace industry.”
Encouraging students to pursue careers in aviation and aerospace remains a core objective for the agency, which views education initiatives as a critical foundation for industry growth.
“At the ODAA, one of our top priorities is to encourage the next generation to consider careers in the aerospace and aviation sectors upon graduation.”
The funding programme also aligns with the Oklahoma Works workforce initiative, a statewide effort designed to address workforce shortages and improve connections between education providers and industry employers.
“The ODAA’s aerospace and aviation education funding supports the Oklahoma Works initiative that aims to address the skills gap and connect students to programs that will help build Oklahoma’s aerospace and aviation workforce.”
Over the past two decades, the programme has distributed significant funding to organisations throughout the state, reflecting sustained government support for aviation-related education.
“Aerospace and aviation education is one of the ODAA’s top priorities. Since FY2001, it has awarded $6.5 million in aerospace and education funding to organizations and programs throughout the state.”
Recent funding activity indicates continued growth in the initiative.
“Within the last 5 years alone, the Commission has awarded more than $2.5 million in education grants and contracts.”
Organisations interested in applying are encouraged to review the eligibility rules before submitting an application.
“Research the rules filed with the Secretary of State, Title 25, Chapter 25, to verify that your program qualifies and then apply today!”
Completed applications must be submitted by email to the programme administrators, with additional guidance available for applicants requiring support during the application or implementation process.
“Email completed applications to [email protected].”
Potential applicants can also contact programme officials for assistance related to grant funding or project implementation.
“For questions or assistance with receiving your grant funds please contact Michelle Bouziden at [email protected].”
“For questions or assistance with implementing your program please contact Paula Kedy at [email protected] or Stephanie Holt-Lucas at [email protected].”
The department has also encouraged community stakeholders—including schools, colleges, technical education centres, municipalities and local leaders—to promote the opportunity widely.
“Be sure to share this opportunity with your local schools, career techs, colleges, cities, and community leaders.”
With applications open until the end of May, education providers now have a limited window to secure funding aimed at expanding aviation learning opportunities and strengthening the next generation of aerospace professionals.
