Aerospace Education

"America's love of manned flight started with the Wright brothers and continues unabated into the 21st century. World War II showcased the important role aviation would play in the future, and national leaders recognized the importance of stimulating public interest in aerospace activities. CAP, as the civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, was most suited to perform this mission. Efforts focused on two different audiences -- internal CAP members and the general public. The internal programs ensure that all CAP members have an appreciation for and knowledge of aerospace issues. A rigourous educational program is offered at every level of CAP organization.

Aerospace educators at CAP's National Headquarters at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, provide materials that reflect the highest standards of educational excellence. The congressional charter also tasked CAP to stimulate public interest in aerospace issues. These external programs are primarily conducted through our nation's education systems. Each year, CAP supports more than 100 workshops in colleges and universities across the nation, reaching more than 3,000 educators. These workshops highlight basic aerospace knowledge and focus on advances in aerospace technology. Textbooks, learning tools and visual aids geared to stimulate interest in aerospace matters also are provided for teachers to use in their classrooms. Started in 1951, these workshops have reached hundreds of thousands of teachers and students across the nation."

(Reprinted from the 1999 Annual Report to Congress)