The Virginia Aviation Business Association

We're excited to see George Mason University and General Dynamics expanding their partnership to empower students in high-demand areas like cybersecurity, AI, and software development. With new mentorships, hackathons, and hands-on projects, this collaboration is building Virginia’s future workforce. Read about the expanding partnership: https://ow.ly/qXFR50U3kv1 #STEMCareers #MasonNation #TechTalent

?? University of Virginia student Craig Kalkwarf is leveraging his aerospace and photography skills through the NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration Pathways program! In the Advanced Imaging Lab at Kennedy Space Center, Craig helps ensure the Artemis missions are launch-ready, capturing critical data and testing high-speed cameras. Exciting to see Virginia talent contributing to NASA's return to the moon! Read the full piece: https://lnkd.in/euXaBxXX #NASAPathways #Artemis #UVAEngineering #VirginiaTech

Exciting News for Virginia-Based Innovation! ?? Virginia’s own Electra.aero has been chosen by NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration to develop the next generation of electric commercial airliners. This partnership, part of NASA’s AACES 2050 program, will drive sustainable advancements in aviation and further elevate Virginia as a leader in the field. Congratulations, Electra, on this major accomplishment and on helping shape a cleaner future for air travel! ???? #SustainableAviation #Innovation #VirginiaAviation #Electra Read more about this exciting announcement: https://ow.ly/8pj850U6g8T

?? Virginia’s position as a leader in aerospace just got stronger! CMC Electronics, a major player in avionics, is investing $5 million to establish a new office and R&D facility in Reston, creating 89 high-tech jobs in Fairfax County. This expansion highlights Virginia’s strong talent pipeline and business-friendly climate, attracting global leaders in aerospace innovation. Welcome, CMC Electronics—we’re excited to see the impact of this investment! Learn more: https://ow.ly/nN0J50U2sPH #Aerospace #Innovation #JobGrowth #VirginiaEconomy #VABA

?? Big news for Virginia’s aviation industry! Tomorrow, Electra.aero will unveil its nine-passenger hybrid-electric short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) aircraft. This innovative design pairs a gas-powered turbogenerator with electric propulsion, ready for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) now and adaptable for hydrogen in the future. With ultra-quiet operation and a takeoff roll of just 150 feet, it’s a significant step forward for sustainable aviation. We’re thrilled to see Virginia leading the way in this revolutionary development and are excited to talk about the launch in our November newsletter. #VirginiaAviation #Innovation #SustainableAviation #ElectraAero Read more: https://ow.ly/ckks50U3hqx

We’re thrilled to spotlight DroneUp, a pioneer in autonomous drone delivery led by VABA board member and DroneUp CEO Tom Walker. DroneUp has just launched a suite of proprietary technologies aimed at achieving the $7 drone delivery milestone. With innovations like the Uncrew software for autonomous flight, advanced winch technology, and next-gen battery configurations, DroneUp is setting the standard in logistics, enhancing efficiency, safety, and scalability. Discover how DroneUp is transforming drone delivery: https://ow.ly/BVza50U2ryT #DroneInnovation #AutonomousTechnology #VABA #VirginiaAviation

On Veterans Day, we recognize and celebrate the bravery and sacrifice of our veterans. Thank you to all who have served in the armed forces and to those who support them. Today and every day, we honor your dedication and commitment. #VeteransDay #ServiceAndSacrifice #HonoringVeterans

On this #STEMDay, the VABA reaffirms our commitment to strengthening STEM education for Virginia’s middle school students. Studies show middle school is a pivotal time for developing interests, and by expanding access to STEM, we can inspire the next generation of aviation and aerospace innovators. One great example is Old Dominion University's Computer Science for Middle School (CS4MS) project, which equips teachers with the tools they need to introduce computer science to students across core subjects. By supporting projects like CS4MS, we’re opening new pathways in fields like aviation and technology, helping students see real-world applications and career possibilities. Read more about this initiative here: https://ow.ly/xobe50U2xTk #STEMinAviation #AerospaceEducation #InspireTheFuture #VirginiaAviation

Another #STEMDay update we’re thrilled to share! Virginia Space Flight Academy has partnered with NEWPORT NEWS PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT, launching a $2 million initiative to bring hands-on STEM experiences to students. “Mission STEM” will immerse Virginia’s next generation in fields like aerospace, robotics, and space exploration. Read more: https://lnkd.in/eR-7KveD #STEMEducation #MissionSTEM #VASFA

In honor of #NationalSTEMDay, we’re spotlighting an exciting initiative shaping the future of aviation! ?? RTX's partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America brings hands-on STEM education to young students across the country. This program is empowering the next generation of aerospace innovators through real-world learning and problem-solving. Discover more: https://ow.ly/2XtJ50TWKMl #NationalSTEMDay #FutureOfAviation #STEMEducation #WorkforceDevelopment #VABA