WOMEN IN AVIATION INTERNATIONAL
DAYTONA BEACH CHAPTER

WOMEN IN AVIATION INTERNATIONAL

DAYTONA BEACH CHAPTER

SILVER SANDS MIDDLE SCHOOL AVIATION CLUB

We’re excited to introduce the SSMS Aviation Club, a free after-school program launched and led by the Women in Aviation International – Daytona Beach Chapter.
Since its launch at the start of the 2025–2026 academic year, the program has been designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and expose students to the dynamic world of aviation, aerospace, and emerging technologies through hands-on, real-world learning.
Who Can Join
The Aviation Club is open to all Silver Sands Middle School students (Grades 6–8) who are interested in aviation, aerospace, technology, or simply curious about what happens beyond the clouds and behind the scenes.
No prior experience is required, just curiosity and a willingness to explore.
Club Details
  • Schedule: Typically the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month
  • Time: 4:25 PM – 5:45 PM
  • Location: Room 304
What Students Will Experience
Each session combines interactive STEM-based activities, real-world aviation concepts, and exposure to industry professionals. Students will explore topics such as:
  • History of Aviation
  • Principles of Flight
  • Airport and Airline Operations
  • Flight Planning and Navigation
  • Aviation Technology and Aircraft Maintenance
  • Air Traffic Control Systems
  • Emerging Technologies like drones, AI, and electric aircraft
  • Aviation and Aerospace Career Pathways
Guest speakers from across the aviation industry will provide insight into real careers and experiences, helping students connect classroom learning to real-world opportunities.
Program Objectives
The SSMS Aviation Club is designed to:
  • Introduce foundational aviation and aerospace concepts in an engaging, accessible way
  • Inspire curiosity about STEM careers, from pilots and engineers to future space explorers
  • Develop teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking through hands-on learning
  • Engage students with emerging technologies such as eVTOL, AI, sustainable fuels, and hypersonics
  • Connect students with local role models and educational pathways in aviation and aerospace
Future Pathways & Academic Opportunities
This program helps students explore and prepare for future educational opportunities, including:
  • The Technology, Engineering, Science and Aerospace (TESA) Program at Atlantic High School
  • Dual enrollment pathways with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where students can earn college credit while still in high school
Grade 8 students will receive additional guidance on preparing for TESA applications and planning their high school coursework.
Field Trips & Special Experiences
As the program grows, students will have opportunities to engage with the aviation industry beyond the classroom through experiences such as:
  • Behind-the-scenes airport tours at Daytona Beach International Airport (airside operations, ARFF, hangars, and more)
  • Campus visits to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
  • Participation in Girls in Aviation Day 2026 (September 19th, 2026, 10 AM–1 PM)
  • Visits to local STEM organizations, drone operators, and aerospace companies
  • Potential excursions to Kennedy Space Center
Note: Some events may occur during or outside of regular club meeting times.
Sample Topics & Activities
Throughout the year, students will engage in themed sessions such as:
Flight Planning
Learn how pilots plan routes, evaluate weather, calculate fuel, and use navigation tools.
Hands-on: Plan a cross-country flight using maps or digital tools.
Air Traffic Control
Explore how tower, approach, and enroute systems manage aircraft safely.
Interactive: Role-play pilots and controllers using real-world scenarios.
Drones & Emerging Technology
Understand drone operations, FAA basics, and the future of aviation including eVTOL and AI.
Space & Aerospace
Discover how aviation connects to spaceflight, including rockets, satellites, and modern missions like Artemis.
Join the Aviation Club
If your child is interested in joining, please scan or click the QR code to complete the registration form.
We encourage families to share their student’s interests as this helps us tailor activities, guest speakers, and experiences to what excites them most.
For more information, please contact: info@waidab.org