New program to launch at Arroyo Grande High School
SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA — The County of San Luis Obispo Department of Airports is proud to announce a new partnership with Lucia Mar School District to introduce the Aviation Career and Technical Education (CTE) Pathway at Arroyo Grande High School for the 2025-2026 school year. This initiative marks a major step in fostering the next generation of aviation professionals and expanding career opportunities for local students.
Through this partnership, Arroyo Grande High School will implement the nationally recognized Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Foundation’s “You Can Fly” High School Curriculum, an immersive program designed to engage students in aerospace and aviation career exploration. This curriculum, developed by AOPA, offers a comprehensive foundation in aviation principles, including aerodynamics, flight mechanics, and industry career pathways including steps to gaining an individual’s pilot license or becoming a licensed drone operator.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Lucia Mar Unified School District to bring aviation directly into the classroom,” said Courtney Johnson, Director of Airports. “This program plants the seeds of possibility for students—whether they dream of flying, fixing, designing, or leading in the world of aviation. It gives them the opportunity to take that first step—right here in their own community. We’re proud to launch this effort in South County, where the skies over Oceano Airport have long sparked curiosity and possibility.”
Students enrolled in the Aviation CTE Pathway will gain hands-on experience, real-world knowledge, and access to industry mentors, helping them explore careers as pilots, air traffic controllers, aerospace engineers, aviation maintenance technicians, and more. The program aligns with the Department of Airports’ commitment to supporting STEM education and workforce development in the region.
“We are excited to offer this dynamic new program to our students,” said Kristin Anderson, Coordinator of Career and Technical Education, Lucia Mar Unified School District. “Aviation offers incredible career opportunities, and with support from the Department of Airports and the AOPA Foundation, we are preparing students for success in this high-demand field.”
“The launch of the Aviation CTE Pathway reflects the growing need for skilled aviation professionals both in our region and beyond, while also emphasizing the value of the Oceano Airport,” said District 4 Supervisor Jimmy Paulding. “I’m proud to have supported this program and look forward to the positive impact it will have—not only for these high school students, but for the broader South County community as well.”
For more information about the Aviation CTE Pathway or the AOPA High School Curriculum, reach out to [email protected].
For more information about SBP, including flight schedules and upcoming initiatives, visit www.sloairport.com.
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ABOUT US
The SLO County Airport (SBP) is a vital transportation gateway serving California’s Central Coast region. With its modern facilities and convenient location, the airport offers a range of domestic flights, connecting passengers to major cities across the United States. SBP serves areas as far north as Southern Monterey County, San Luis Obispo County, and as far south as Northern Santa Barbara County. SBP is committed to providing safe, efficient, and customer-focused air travel services to its passengers while supporting the economic growth and development of the region. SBP is also home to full-service general aviation and corporate facilities. For more information, please visit www.sloairport.com.
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