The annual Santa Maria AirFest soared to new heights this year with its “Skyward Bound” educational program, offering high school students a rare opportunity to engage directly with aviation experts and military personnel.
This year, 68 students from Tiffany Cunningham’s Physics of the Universe classes at Righetti High School participated Sept. 18, making it an unforgettable educational experience.
As part of the program, students met Derek Abbey from Project Recovery, and learned about the organization’s work to locate and recover missing U.S. service members from past conflicts. The group also had the privilege of speaking with Dale Dumo from the Travis Manion Foundation, an organization focused on fostering leadership and service among young people.
“It was really fun, and I got to learn what Project Recovery does and how they do their work successfully,” Nathan John, a ninth-grader, said.
One of the highlights of the event was a hands-on tour of four remarkable aircraft, each offering a unique perspective on aviation education and career paths:
• A plane from ArtCraft Paint and Interiors, a locally owned business specializing in aircraft refurbishing, showcasing the role of innovation and craftsmanship in aviation.
• The iconic A-10C Thunderbolt II from the Air Force’s Demo Team at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base. Students met pilot Major Lindsey “Mad” Johnson, who shared insights on the technical demands and excitement of piloting military aircraft.
• The legendary P-51 Mustang, part of the Heritage Flight Team, connecting past and present through its rich history in aerial combat.
• An aircraft from the California Aeronautical University in Bakersfield, where students learned about pathways into aviation education and careers.
Each student had the opportunity to meet the pilots, explore the aircraft, and gain valuable insights into the world of aviation. The Skyward Bound program is designed to spark curiosity in STEM fields, with a special focus on aviation, and to inspire the next generation of leaders, innovators, and pilots.
“It was very fun because my friends and I got along really well with the people at each of the stations with the planes and we learned a lot about each plane,” Isabella Ceballos, a ninth-grader, said.
Santa Maria’s AirFest, with its Skyward Bound initiative, continues to provide unique educational experiences that empower students, helping them to see the endless possibilities in aviation and beyond.
“I’m really excited that the students had a great time; they enjoyed speaking with each of the pilots, and they learned more about aviation and possible STEM careers,” Cunningham said.
Santa Maria AirFest is an annual event that celebrates aviation and honors military history, offering thrilling airshows, educational programs, and an up-close look at a variety of aircraft. The festival aims to inspire the local community, particularly young students, to pursue careers in aviation and STEM fields. It takes place Sept. 21-22, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at the Santa Maria Airport. Tickets are available online.
