College of Education and Human Sciences hosts first Aero Exploration Day
Wednesday, March 5, 2025
Media Contact: Kirsi McDowell | Communications Coordinator | 405-744-8320 | kirsi@okstate.edu
In a first-of-its-kind event on the Oklahoma State University campus, Aero Exploration Day brought nearly 100 high school students from across the state to the Wes Watkins Center for International Trade Development on March 5 for a glimpse into the world of aerospace and aviation at OSU, and a bit of friendly competition.
Hosted by the College of Education and Human Sciences, Aero Exploration Day was developed to provide first-hand exposure to degree programs and professional fields in the aviation and aerospace industry that students may not have otherwise had access to. CEHS offers degree programs in aerospace security, aviation management, professional pilot and technical service management.
Throughout the day, teams of students presented during a competition in which judges selected State Champions. The teams were prompted with an emergency scenario — in this case potential tornadoes at Oklahoma City Will Rogers International Airport — and instructed to develop a plan of action.
Judges evaluated students’ ability to demonstrate critical thinking, clear communication, and teamwork skills necessary to work in the industry.
Dr. Chad Depperschmidt, associate professor and school head for the School of Educational Foundations, Leadership and Aviation led the judging team along with senior academic advisor Madison Hagen, assistant director of student engagement at OSU Campus Life Dr. Amy Gazaway, and aerospace administration and operations senior Kaylin Klein.
The state champion team and finalists were honored during a ceremony.
State Champion team:
Chisholm Public Schools
- Katelynn Elliott, sophomore
- Eli Hisey, junior
- Houston Moore, freshman
- Wyatt Parlan, sophomore
- Travis Buford, instructor
The group shared that they were thankful to rely on their teammates during their presentation and saw how communication and collaboration translate to a career in aviation.
“Knowing that it wasn’t all on me, that I had others here supporting me, allowed me to calm my nerves and focus on the task,” Moore said.
Elliott and Moore said that beyond their win today, knowing that OSU provides an opportunity to attend an in-state university with aviation programs, they have greater excitement about pursuing a degree in the field.
As a senior academic advisor who works closely with the programs, Madison Hagen shared why events like Aero Exploration Day are so impactful.
“Students who have had exposure to the aviation industry have a contagious excitement, and are driven by that excitement to be successful within the aviation field," Hagen said. "It is exciting to work with aviation students because they are so passionate and enthusiastic. They are typically confident in their major choice, and look forward to beginning their major specific classes and taking advantage of any opportunities offered to them.”
The event included a presentation by a panel of current students who shared insight
with the up-and-coming students in attendance. Panelists included Rani Gandhi, aerospace
administration and operations sophomore; Tanner Trout, professional pilot sophomore;
Molly Bond, professional pilot senior; and James Barrett, professional pilot sophomore.
The panel was moderated by Josh Stephens, a senior in the professional pilot program.
Gandhi shared the importance of highlighting the administration and operations side of aerospace and aviation.
“It takes a team of people on the ground to help plan, coordinate, manage and arrange the ability to get a plane off the ground,” she said.
“There would be little flying taking place if there wasn't a team of people doing the work that helps people travel quickly, efficiently and safely. The aviation industry is what it is today because of the administration and operations teams that assist in laying the groundwork for flight.”
Hagen said for students looking to pursue a degree in aviation, the best way to set themselves up for success is to continue to take advantage of opportunities like Aero Exploration Day.
“Continue to explore all of the exciting opportunities within the aviation field, take a discovery flight, visit your local airport for shadowing opportunities — ultimately, find what within the field brings you the most joy and excitement,” Hagen said.
All students and instructors in attendance were invited to a tour of the Ray and Linda Booker OSU Flight Center to conclude the day.
Participating Schools/Districts:
- Ada City Schools
- Alva Public Schools
- Bartlesville Public Schools
- Bixby Public Schools
- Chisholm Public Schools
- Mid-Del Tech Center
- Moore Public Schools
- Norman Public Schools
- Perkins-Tryon Public Schools
- Putnam City Aviation Academy
- Union Public Schools
- Wewoka Public Schools
Find more information about OSU’s aviation and space programs here.