Aviation and Drones Program

There’s something about aviation that captures a young person’s imagination. The technology. The adventure. The challenge. And, of course, the chance to fly!

Mecklenburg County Council has built a growing Aviation Program designed to give Scouts the training and hands-on opportunities to explore the world of flight—from airplanes and flight simulators to drones and aviation careers.

Whether you’re interested in earning the Aviation Merit Badge, learning to fly a drone, exploring the science behind flight, or wondering what it takes to become a pilot, engineer, mechanic, air traffic controller, or other aviation professional, there’s a place for you.

Aviation Merit Badge

Throughout the year, we offer Aviation Merit Badge Days and aviation experiences at special events across the Council.

Scouts learn the fundamentals of flight, explore aircraft and aviation technology, discover career opportunities, and complete the requirements for the Aviation Merit Badge. They may even get the chance to take a Discovery Flight! Aviation programming is also incorporated into major Council events, including our All-Girls Camporee.

Aviation at Camp Grimes

Aviation has become an exciting part of the High-Adventure Program at Camp Grimes.

Our goal is to give Scouts experiences that go beyond the traditional summer camp program—combining aviation, technology, hands-on learning, and adventure. From an immersive flight simulation to drone flight training to an airport visit and a Discovery Flight, Scouts can experience aviation in ways they may never have had the opportunity to before. As we say….”You Gotta Go to Grimes”!

Drones & Exploring

Aviation today is about much more than airplanes. Our Drone Exploring Post gives young people the opportunity to explore one of the fastest-growing areas of aviation. Participants can learn about drone technology, flight operations, safety, regulations, photography, mapping, and the rapidly expanding career opportunities involving unmanned aircraft systems. It’s a great way for young people interested in technology and aviation to take that interest to the next level.

Aviation Experiences Throughout the Year

Throughout the year, we work with aviation organizations, professionals, volunteers, and community partners to create opportunities for Scouts to experience aviation firsthand. Programs may include:

· Aviation Merit Badge Days

· Flight simulators

· Drone activities and Exploring

· Airport and aircraft experiences

· Aviation demonstrations

· Career exploration

· Special aviation events

· Aviation programming at Camp Grimes                                                   and other Council events

New opportunities are added throughout the year, so check the Backpack to hear about the next event!

Ready for Takeoff?

Whether you’re a Scout looking for your next adventure, a parent trying to encourage a young person’s interest in aviation, or an aviation professional who would like to help inspire the next generation, we’d love to hear from you.

For information about upcoming programs—or to learn how you can get involved—contact the Steve Jegier, our Director of Aviation Program, at steve@jegier.com

The sky isn’t the limit. It’s just the beginning.