Josh Cunningham Completes Educator Training to Bring Aviation Pathway to CHS Students
Claremore High School (CHS) is proud to announce the launch of a new aerospace program for the 2025–2026 school year through the nationally recognized Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) “You Can Fly” High School Aviation STEM Curriculum. This exciting addition will expand CHS’s growing catalog of specialized career pathways, joining established STEM programs in biomedical sciences and engineering.
CHS teacher Josh Cunningham recently completed a rigorous professional training program hosted by AOPA and the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA). Held at Rose State College and the FAA’s Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, the multi-day summit equipped participating educators with the tools and knowledge necessary to bring the aviation curriculum to life in their classrooms.
“This is an incredible opportunity for Claremore students,” said Brooke Lee, CHS Principal. “Aviation is one of Oklahoma’s fastest-growing industries, and this program will help prepare our students to take flight in more ways than one—whether that’s as pilots, air traffic controllers, engineers, or drone operators.”
The AOPA “You Can Fly” curriculum is a four-year, standards-aligned program designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of aerospace, aviation history, flight science, and aeronautical engineering. Students enrolled in the program will have the chance to explore hands-on learning, flight simulation, and potential career pathways in one of the state’s most in-demand and high-paying industries. According to the ODAA, the average annual salary for aerospace professionals in Oklahoma exceeds $73,000.
Cunningham emphasized the program’s role in preparing students for meaningful futures in Oklahoma’s thriving aerospace industry, which contributes nearly $44 billion annually to the state’s economy. He noted, “This program will benefit Claremore students by drawing attention to career opportunities in aeronautics, the second leading industry in our state.” He also explained that students enrolled in the program will explore both aviation and unmanned aircraft systems, and that those interested in becoming pilots or drone operators will be equipped with the knowledge to pursue and obtain their pilot certificates upon completion of the program.
Hands-on learning is a central component of the curriculum. “Curiosity, exploration, and communication will be encouraged throughout the program,” Cunningham said. He also shared plans to expand the program’s reach by cultivating partnerships with statewide organizations and institutions such as AOPA, the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics, Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology, and Rose State College.
“This new program is a perfect complement to the innovative biomedical and engineering pathways already available to students at Claremore High School,” said Superintendent Bryan Frazier. “Claremore Public Schools continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible by offering innovative, meaningful, future-focused learning experiences that prepare students for success beyond graduation. This is yet another step forward in our pursuit of academic excellence.”
Students interested in enrolling in the aerospace program should contact Claremore High School and speak with their assigned vice principal or counselor for more information and guidance on course selection.
By integrating this program into its course offerings, CHS continues its commitment to empowering students with real-world skills and opening doors to high-demand careers in Oklahoma’s thriving aerospace industry.
For more information on the AOPA curriculum and career-focused programs at Claremore High School, visit www.claremore.k12.ok.us. For more information about AOPA, visit https://www.aopa.org/.