Excitement filled the air at Southport Aerospace Centre today as Grade 8 students from Yellowquill School got a thrilling, hands-on introduction to the world of aviation during Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) Day.
Hosted by Southport in partnership with Red River College Polytechnic, the event aimed to spark interest in aviation careers by letting students experience the daily tasks of aircraft maintenance engineers firsthand.
Students and local officials join forces
Over 100 students rotated through seven interactive stations designed to demystify aircraft systems and engineering principles. They explored the power of hydraulics and actuators, discovered how composite materials enhance durability, and tested their aerodynamics by folding and flying paper airplanes.
The thrill peaked with interactive helicopter controls, the chance to sit in a real aircraft cockpit, and the hands-on challenge of disassembling and reassembling an aircraft brake and wheel. Fun games like tossing a ring to land on an aircraft tire and piloting a helicopter hover simulator added to the energetic learning environment.
Local leaders, including City Councillor Colin Doyle, Mayor Sharilyn Knox, and MLA Jeff Bereza, joined the students, witnessing the enthusiasm firsthand. Councillor Doyle was impressed by both the complexity of aviation maintenance and the students' reaction.
"I was very happy to get the invite to AME day. I wasn't too sure what to expect, but there's definitely a lot that goes into aviation that we really don't see as passengers," Doyle shared, "I learned how a helicopter is not just a spinning blade that goes up and down. There's a lot more to it. And for people who have some concerns about flying... a day like today kind of alleviates some of those thoughts."
He observed the initial shyness of the students quickly transform into active participation. "The students loved it. A little shy at first, but as the morning progressed, they definitely jumped into it. They were wanting to volunteer on pretty much everything by the end of it."
Doyle cited the helicopter simulator as his personal highlight. "My favorite station would have been the helicopter simulator. There was a lot that goes into it. It's very simple machine but also very complex at the same time. And I asked a lot of questions there because it was very fascinating."
Student enthusiasm takes flight
The Grade 8 participants echoed the excitement. Miyah found the helicopter controls particularly fascinating.
"I learned how they drive helicopters and steer them. I didn't know how to do that before and I thought it was pretty cool," she said. While unsure about her future career path, she added, "I might look into it, but I don't know 100% if I will take it," and confirmed, "I did enjoy myself a lot today."
Presley discovered a whole new interest.
"I thought it was great. I learned a lot about planes. I'm not usually into the plane industry, but yeah, I learned a lot, especially with helicopters too," Presley explained, pinpointing helicopters as the most intriguing aspect. "Probably helicopters cause I did not know anything about helicopters and now I do like lots." This new knowledge sparked potential career interest: "Yes, definitely. Eventually, probably maybe."
Erika drew a personal connection during the hands-on activities.
"It was pretty great. I've never been here so it's pretty new. It's very fun," she stated. The aircraft brake station resonated most. "Probably changing the tire on the plane. It was pretty interesting. My dad changes car tires so it was interesting." Like her peers, the door to an AME career is now open: "Maybe in the future. I'm still thinking of what I want to do, so maybe."
Thankfully, these students all still have plenty of time to think about what direction they want their lives to take, and are now armed with knowledge that could encourage them to pursue the field of aviation.
Planting seeds for the future
Councillor Doyle concluded by acknowledging the organizers' efforts. "I just wanted to thank Southport and thank everyone involved, Red River... everyone involved for inviting us out and I look forward to coming again next year."
The event successfully provided a vibrant, engaging glimpse into the vital world of aircraft maintenance. By letting students get their hands dirty, ask questions, and sit at the controls, Southport and Red River College Polytechnic ignited curiosity and potentially launched future aviation careers right here in Portage la Prairie.
