RVA ACE Academy

OBAP's Aerospace Career Education (ACE) Academy provides middle and high school youth with exposure to opportunities in aerospace and aviation through week-long summer camps.

Endorsed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), OBAP has served a leading role in establishing ACE Academies nationwide to introduce, educate and guide diverse students towards careers in aviation.

In 1992, OBAP partnered with the FAA to support two ACE Academies reaching 41 students. In 1994, the organization co-sponsored 17 academies and reached more than 400 students. To date, OBAP’s ACE Academies have engaged more than 30,000 youth!

OBAP's immersive ACE Academies are structured and tailored to provide exposure to the history of aviation, fundamentals of aerodynamics, air traffic control procedures, aerospace technologies and introductions to aviation careers. Now in 26 locations including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, with two terms in Memphis and Louisville, the program engages 1,100 students on an annual basis.

OBAP has partnered with the NVA STEM program to offer a week-long Summer Aviation Career Academy in Richmond, Virginia.

The camp is open to all youth between the ages of 13-18. Participants must submit their recent report card or transcript and parents must sign a liability waiver.

Admission Requirements

Admission is offered to boys and girls from 13 to 18 years old who have an interest in learning about aviation (incoming 9th,10th,11th,12th grade). Applicants are competitively ranked based on age, cumulative GPA.

• Students must be physically capable of participating in all activities.

• High standards of behavior and self-discipline are expected and students must abide by all academy regulations.

• Parents or guardians must attend an orientation before programs begin.

Application Process

There is a $150.00 non-refundable application-processing fee for ALL APPLICANTS to cover administrative and academy costs.  Admittance is limited, so apply early!