by: Dave Garvin, Manager of Workforce Programs, Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce
The Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Worcester Public Schools, Heart of New England Council, Scouting America (formerly Boy Scouts of America), and Worcester Regional Airport, has developed an innovative program to help students explore potential careers in the aviation industry. Expanding on the Chamber’s ongoing collaboration with Worcester Public schools, this initiative aims to expose students to career opportunities earlier in their educational journey.
Thanks to the support and sponsorship of the Massachusetts Port Authority (Mass Port), this collaborative effort has launched the first-ever “Exploring Aviation” program for middle school students from Forest Grove and Sullivan Middle Schools.
Once the program was announced, student interest was immediate. Sign-ups for the initial introductory tours on January 14th and 16th quickly filled the event’s capacity of over 60 participants. These enthusiastic students experienced a comprehensive tour of Worcester Airport operations. With the support of Atlantic Aviation, JetBlue, American Airlines, and Delta Airlines, students were given an up-close look at the various facets of airport operations, including main check-in counter procedures, baggage handling, and a first-hand interaction with the TSA screening process—complete with the “shoe removal” step.
The tour extended to the tarmac, where students observed runways in action, including the landing and takeoff of a small private plane. They also visited two aircraft hangars, witnessed demonstrations by the Mass Port Fire-Rescue Department, and had the rare opportunity to see two World War II-era War Bird aircraft up close. Many students, who had never been to an airport or flown on a plane, found the experience both eye-opening and inspirational.
A particularly memorable highlight was the story shared by Tim Kane, a Customer Service Representative at Atlantic Aviation. Tim recounted how his first visit to the airport, as an 11-year-old Cub Scout, sparked his interest in an aviation career. His journey resonated with the students and highlighted the impact of early exposure to career options.
Workforce development has been a priority for Worcester Chamber members, with ongoing efforts to strengthen relationships between Worcester Public School students and local businesses. Career exploration programs like this help students gain a clearer understanding of potential career paths and pave the way for meaningful work-based learning opportunities, such as internships. For students, these experiences clarify industry expectations and ignite passions, while organizations have the opportunity to cultivate a future workforce aligned with their industries.
Building on the enthusiasm generated by the introductory tours, the program will continue with a more in-depth curriculum. Starting January 29th and running through May 28th, students who demonstrated the most interest will participate in monthly sessions designed to deepen their understanding of aviation related careers.
This initiative not only enhances the lives of Worcester students but also contributes to the economic growth of Central Massachusetts in both the short and long term. If you would like to get involved in a program like this—whether by speaking to students or hosting a similar event—please contact the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber remains committed to expanding this initiative and identifying additional industries to spotlight, providing students with hands-on opportunities to explore careers in fields such as construction, healthcare, culinary arts, engineering, business, and early childhood education. Through exploration and experiential learning, these students are taking their first steps toward bright and rewarding futures. For them, their careers have truly been “cleared for takeoff!”
