Students at Shawnee High School have the opportunity to become licensed commercial drone pilots through its aerospace and aviation curriculum.

SHS is one of only 58 schools in Oklahoma approved to teach the "You Can Fly" curriculum from the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association curriculum. The program is led by STEM teacher Josh Watson, who teaches math, coding, and aerospace engineering.

Aviation and aerospace are growing industries in our state, and SHS is at the forefront of giving our students an edge in competing in the future aerospace workforce. Students in the four-year program have made simulated rockets, parachutes, wind tunnels, and hot air balloons. They have also practiced with flight simulators.

Students enrolled in the aeronautics and aviation classes can earn their Part 107 Commercial Drone Pilot License and can complete work that will prepare them for parts of pilot license exams.

For more information about studying aeronautics and aviation at Shawnee High School, contact Josh Watson at joswatson@shawnee.k12.ok.us. This article from Countywide & Sun reporter Natasha Dunagan also offers more insight into the SHS program.