STEM Aviation / Aerospace Magnet Program
A four-year pathway connecting high school with rewarding careers in aviation. Students choose the Pilot or Unmanned Aircraft Systems (drone) track, built on the AOPA Foundation’s You Can Fly curriculum.
At a glance
- CampusNorth Campus at MDC North
- PathwaysPilot (airplanes) · Unmanned Aircraft Systems (drones)
- CurriculumAOPA Foundation’s You Can Fly, accredited by STEM.ORG
- Credits transfer toEmbry-Riddle, Purdue and Western Michigan University
- ScholarshipFull-time programs qualify for Step Up for Students
On this page
More full-time programs
Overview
At American High School Academy, we connect high school education with rewarding careers in the aviation industry. In partnership with the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), our students prepare for success in the fast-growing fields of aviation and aerospace.
Developed by the AOPA Foundation’s You Can Fly initiative, the curriculum is accredited by STEM.ORG and aligned with Common Core, the Next Generation Science Standards and the FAA’s Airmen Certification Standards, preparing students for industry licensing exams that lead to certification.
Two pathways
Grades 9 and 10 build a shared foundation. Students choose their pathway in the second semester of grade 11.
Airplanes
Pilot
Prepare for the FAA Private Pilot Knowledge Test, then go beyond the private pilot certificate with instrument flight, advanced aircraft and career planning.
FAA Private Pilot Knowledge Test prep
Drones
Unmanned Aircraft Systems
Prepare for the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Knowledge Test and earn a CTE stackable credential to work as a commercial drone pilot.
FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot test prep
Four-year course map
Seven courses across two Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways.
| Grade | Courses | Topics |
|---|---|---|
| 9th grade | Semester 1: Launching into AviationSemester 2: Exploring Aviation and Aerospace | Introduction to Aviation · Aerospace History · Engineering Design |
| 10th grade | Semester 1: Introduction to FlightSemester 2: Aircraft Systems and Performance | Forces of Flight · Aircraft Systems · Aircraft Performance |
| 11th grade | Semester 1: The Flying EnvironmentSemester 2: Pilot Flight Planning (Pilot) or UAS Operations (UAS) | Prep for the FAA Private Pilot or Part 107 Remote Pilot Knowledge Test: airspace, radio communications, regulations, weather and more |
| 12th grade | Semester 1: Pilot Preflight Your Career (Pilot) or A World of UAS (UAS)Semester 2: The Capstone Experience | Pilot: Instrument Flight, Advanced Aircraft. UAS: Advanced Missions, Advanced Drone Tech. Both: Future of Aerospace |
Career preparation
A semester course in Aerospace Apprenticeship and Career Preparation covers:
- General career skills
- Aviation-specific career skills
- Workforce success preparation
- College and university research and applications
- Scholarship application assistance
- Resume assistance
After high school, students can transfer credits to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Purdue University and Western Michigan University to continue their aviation and aerospace education without losing momentum.
Questions about this program?
Most students are referred to AHSA by their home school district, but students and families can also contact us directly.
Contact Admissions(305) 270-1440
Mon–Fri, 9 am–5 pm