From June 11 to July 31, 2024, the Robert B. Griffin Chapter of the Black Pilots of America
proudly hosted its first-ever Youth Aviation STEM Camp in partnership with the City of
Daytona Beach Parks & Recreation Department. The camp welcomed approximately 35
enthusiastic middle and high school students from the Daytona Beach area, offering them an
unforgettable, hands-on introduction to aviation, engineering, and STEM-related careers.
The energy and excitement from both students and parents were electric. Many shared how
the camp sparked new passions, inspired confidence, and opened their eyes to careers they
had never before considered. Despite being our inaugural camp, the outcome was a
tremendous success.
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Throughout the summer, students engaged in:​
- Classroom instruction in aviation fundamentals and engineering concepts
- Flight simulator training, where they practiced realistic flight operations
- Ground school led by certified flight instructors (CFIs), introducing students to airport
operations including runway usage, air traffic flow, and commercial aircraft types
- STEM-focused field trips, including visits to:
- Daytona Beach International Airport, where students impressed staff with their
knowledge of airport operations
- Epic Flight Academy in New Smyrna Beach, where students explored potential aviation
career paths—from piloting to aircraft maintenance (A&P)
- Orlando Science Center, where students engaged with interactive STEM exhibits
alongside peers from across the region
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Students also enjoyed weekly recreational activities such as beach days and swimming,
providing opportunities for bonding and team-building.
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A highlight of the program was the involvement of mentors and volunteers:
- College student interns from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and Bethune-Cookman
University served as group leaders and role models
- Parents volunteered their time to support classroom activities and attend field trips
- Local leaders, including Daytona Beach City Commissioners, the City Manager, and other
public officials, visited the camp to show their support and encourage our future aviators
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The program concluded with a special closing ceremony where each student received a
certificate of completion. The keynote address was delivered by Cmdr. Donnie Cochran, the
first African American pilot to fly with and later command the U.S. Navy’s Blue
Angels—serving as an inspiring reminder that the sky is not the limit, but just the beginning.
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We are deeply grateful to our sponsors, partners, and community supporters who made this
program possible. Your in-kind donations, time, and financial contributions helped shape a
generation of future leaders and aviators.
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On behalf of the Robert B. Griffin Chapter of the Black Pilots of America, thank you.
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Danny Fuqua
President & Director
Youth Aviation STEM Program
