Oklahoma’s aviation and aerospace industry produces approximately $44 billion in
annual economic activity, making it the second largest economic driver in the state. The
industry supports 206,000 jobs with an annual payroll of $11.7 billion. The average
salary in the industry is $73,300, making it one of the highest average salaries in
Oklahoma.
The aeronautics program at Marietta High School is young, but growing and expanding,
with the end goal of helping to prepare students for a possible career in the industry.
“The goal of our program is to prepare our students for a career in aviation, whether it
be as an airplane pilot, a commercial drone pilot, or another job in the field,” said
instructor Erin Hansen.
Hansen has been in the driver’s seat since the district’s program began, having been
tasked with getting the aviation classes off the ground, so to speak.
“We could not have chosen a better teacher than Mrs. Hansen to develop our
aeronautics classes,” said Superintendent Brandi Naylor. “She makes these classes
interesting and engaging, while challenging students and preparing them for bigger
things, and we’re pleased to be able to continue to grow the program.”
Hansen began with a single course. As it became apparent that there was student
interest to support the class, the program expanded to a second course. And this year,
the district has added a third aeronautics course.
This year the district has 82 students enrolled in the Aeronautics program, with 37
students in Aeronautics 1, 35 in Aeronautics 2, and 10 in Aeronautics 3.
“Our aeronautics program at Marietta high School begins with the history, in which
students learn about aviation and aerospace from ancient times all the way through the
moon landings and possible Mars colonies,” explained Hansen.
The second course focuses on aviation systems, and the third course will continue with
weather, navigation, and unmanned aircraft systems. The curriculum is developed by
the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association and is provided free by the Oklahoma
Aerospace and Aeronautics Commission.
“We are giving students the resources necessary to pursue opportunities for high paying
jobs right here in Oklahoma,” concluded Hansen.