LAUSD Students explore career opportunities in aviation through hands-on demonstrations, aircraft displays and airport tours.
VAN NUYS, CA – On Thursday, October 22, Van Nuys Airport (VNY) hosted over 750+ students from Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) for its annual Aviation Career Day. Students from across the San Fernando Valley received a chance to learn about aviation careers and meet the professionals who work at the airport.
Students interacted with aviation professionals throughout the program, viewed the aircraft on display and took part in a number of interactive sessions which demonstrated the various roles that are involved in keeping an airport running. VNY also took the students on guided tours of the airport including visits to LA County’s famous Super Scoopers, firefighting aircraft.
“Aviation Career Day is a great example of how we can bring education and industry together to prepare the next generation for high-paying, rewarding careers in our community,” said Congresswoman Luz Rivas. “I want to thank the Van Nuys Airport for organizing Aviation Career Day and showing students possible career paths in aviation. I will continue working in Congress to strengthen opportunities for high-paying and rewarding careers for students from all backgrounds.”
Van Nuys Airport is a major source of jobs and economic activity in the San Fernando Valley. VNY’s latest 2026 Economic Impact Study shows the airport supports 18,350 jobs and produces $3.9 billion in annual regional economic output. This includes the broad range of businesses operating at VNY including flight training, aircraft maintenance, charter flights and emergency medical transportation.
“One of the most important things we can do is show students the opportunities that exist right here in their own community,” said Jacob Haik, Van Nuys Airport Manager. “Aviation Career Day gives students a chance to meet the people who keep our airport running, ask questions and see firsthand what a future in aviation could look like. We hope they leave knowing there are many different paths into this industry and that some of those opportunities are right here in the San Fernando Valley.”
In addition to Aviation Career Day, VNY also works with local schools and community organizations to introduce students to aviation through a range of educational programs and career development opportunities such as their Youth Leadership Aviation Academy. These efforts help students learn about the different paths into the industry and the opportunities available right here in the Valley.