Aerospace Education
What We Do
Aerospace Education (AE) is one of Civil Air Patrol’s three core missions. We inspire the next generation of aviation, space, and cyber leaders through hands-on, standards-based STEM education. Michigan Wing brings this mission to life through both internal programs for our cadet and senior members and external partnerships with schools and educators across the state.
We believe that every student and member deserves access to high-quality aerospace learning experiences that build skills, spark curiosity, and expand opportunities.
Who We Serve
Educators & K–12 Students
Michigan Wing proudly supports formal and informal educators—including public and private school teachers, homeschool educators, after-school program leaders, and youth organization mentors—by offering free access to Civil Air Patrol’s nationally recognized STEM and aerospace education resources.
Through the Aerospace Education Member (AEM) program, educators receive:
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Hands-on STEM Kits for classroom use, funded by the U.S. Air Force
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Standards-aligned K–12 lesson plans and aerospace-themed curricula
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Free access to textbooks, activity guides, and interactive media
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Eligibility to participate in orientation flights aboard Civil Air Patrol aircraft
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Ongoing support from Michigan Wing’s AE team and squadron partnerships
Educators can implement these resources in traditional classrooms, homeschools, museums, libraries, or youth development programs. Our goal is to inspire young minds and open doors to careers in aviation, engineering, cyber, and space exploration.
CLICK HERE TO SEND AN AEM INQUIRY FOR MORE INFORMATION
CAP Members (Cadets & Adults)
Aerospace Education is a foundational part of CAP’s internal programs, designed to ignite curiosity and develop STEM proficiency among cadets and adult members alike. Every squadron is encouraged to conduct monthly AE activities that align with the Civil Air Patrol Aerospace Education Excellence (AEX) Program and support cadet advancement.
CAP members benefit from:
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Monthly lesson plans covering aerospace topics, aviation, cyber, and space
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Interactive projects using hands-on kits and Air Force-funded STEM materials
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Opportunities to lead AE initiatives at the squadron, group, and wing level
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Access to regional and national AE training, workshops, and certifications
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Support through Michigan Wing AE Zoom meetings and help lines
Aerospace Education Officers (AEOs) play a key role in shaping these experiences and are supported with resources, mentorship, and planning tools to ensure mission success.
Whether you’re a cadet building model rockets or an AEO planning squadron STEM nights, Michigan Wing AE is here to empower your efforts.
CLICK HERE TO SEND A CAP AEO INQUIRY FOR MORE INFORMATION
Michigan Wing AE Strategic Plan
We’re building a strong AE culture across Michigan Wing with clear goals and performance metrics, including:
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Appointing active AE Officers in each Group
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Hosting quarterly Zoom meetings for AEO collaboration
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Expanding the AEM program and school outreach
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Creating new tools like a Wing AE Inquiry Form and best practice guides
[View the Full Strategic Plan (PDF) →]
Educator Resources
AEMs receive access to high-quality resources, including:
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Lesson Plans and Activities
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Textbooks and Learning Guides
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Video Demonstrations and CAP Downloads
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Remote Learning Resources
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
[AEM Educator Resource Library →]
Michigan in Action: Schools & Squadrons
Michigan Wing is proud of its growing collaborations with schools across the state. Highlights include:
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Adrian Composite Squadron & Prairie Elementary School: National ACE Plus Team of the Year
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Partnerships with Lenawee ISD, Kent County ISD, and multiple REMC districts
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Local squadron visits, teacher workshops, and student enrichment programs
