Inspiration Through Aviation
Since 2000, The Tom Wathen Center has offered a growing number of programs using "Inspiration through Aviation" to encourage STEM learning.
-
Science taught through Real-World applications
-
Technology activities used to enhance learning
-
Engineering skills gained through hands-on experiences
-
Math taught from an aviation perspective
PROGRAMS FOR KIDS & TEENS
Young Eagles Flights
The Young Eagles flight program was launched in 1992 to give interested young people ages 8 through 17 the opportunity to enjoy the thrill of flying in a general aviation airplane. The Tom Wathen Center supports Flabob Airport’s EAA Chapter One in providing free airplane rides made possible through the generosity of EAA member volunteers.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
EAA Chapter One has a vibrant Young Eagles program where our dedicated volunteers educate and fly up to 50 new Young Eagles per month at Flabob Airport in Riverside (County) CA. Children learn the basics of flight, take a pre-flight check of an airplane and then it's time to take to the sky and view the Earth from a totally different perspective!
Reservations required. If you would like to arrange for your child or children to take their first flight in an airplane, you may e-mail
Chapter One ye@eaach1.org or call
(951) 847-5474. To date, we have flown 15,000 Young eagles.
Whether a volunteer or prospective Young Eagle, you're in for the experience of a lifetime!
Build-A-Plane
This program is available for students 14 & 1/2 years or older. In these restoration projects, small groups of students under close and expert adult supervision have fun and learn restoration skills. The group meets on Saturday mornings.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Build-A-Plane gives students a chance to learn about building, repair and restoration of aircraft,with hopes of them becoming involved in aviation.
Youth Opportunity Program
Certified instructors work hand in hand with misguided and disadvantaged youth Students are taught basic structural repair, fabric covering prep and paint. Two programs of this nature are available; auto-body and aircraft restoration.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This program is in conjunction with the Youth Opportunity Center in Rubidoux and requires additional interview process.
AIR ACADEMY-NOW ENROLLING
This program geared for middle and high school students provides a broad introduction to aviation science including weather, navigation, and the principals of flight. Programs include a number of hands-on activities and 3 day Air Academy culminates an EAA Chapter One Young Eagles airplane flight.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Hands on learning, workshops, & avaition 101. Perfect for middle school and high school students. Flabob Air Academy is Now Enrolling and accepting students.
New Rocketry Program
The Tom Wathen Center has built a rocket lab to help students learn about solid and liquid engine powered rockets. Click 'additional information to read more:
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Build-A-Plane gives students a chance to learn about building, repair and restoration of aircraft,with hopes of them becoming involved in aviation.