MATHER – On Saturday, the office of the California Capital Airshow (CCA) invited 500 local students and their families to Mather Airport for a day dedicated to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The event, titled “Destination Aviation,” aimed to inspire young attendees to explore career opportunities in aviation and STEM fields.
The day began with an interactive panel discussion featuring prominent figures from the aviation and STEM industries, including Lt. Col. Merryl Tengesdal, the first Black female U-2 Dragon Lady pilot in the U.S. Air Force, and Elizabeth Lewis, PhD, a space engineer with X-Bow Systems. The discussion set the tone for the event, emphasizing the importance of pursuing careers in these fields.
Following the panel, attendees enjoyed a “Mad Science” show and had the opportunity to engage with more than a dozen hands-on exhibits. Activities included drone demonstrations, aircraft displays, and various STEM challenges designed to captivate the imaginations of young participants.
“Destination Aviation” was organized in partnership with Women in Aviation International, coinciding with International Girls in Aviation Day. The event sought to empower young women and girls in STEM through engaging activities and mentorship.
The event schedule featured an essay contest for students, with winners receiving introductory flights. Gates opened at 11 AM, and participants enjoyed a free lunch before diving into the interactive activities. The event concluded at 2 PM after a series of exhibits and the popular Mad Science show.
The event was supported by sponsors, including Sacramento County, the City of Rancho Cordova, Micron, UPS, and Modern Aviation, all of whom contribute to CCA’s ongoing educational initiatives.
Photos by David Blakeney