A paper airplane challenge at Eagle Valley Middle School inspired future aviators this morning as sixth-grade career foundation students designed, built, tested and refined aerodynamic ambitions before competing to see which design flew the farthest.
Made possible by the George W. Gillemot Foundation, the classroom-to-the-sky activity introduced early concepts tied to aviation while encouraging creativity, collaboration and problem-solving, all key elements of the Gillemot Foundation’s mission to make aviation, drone and aerospace education accessible and inspiring for Nevada’s youth.
The school and community partnership event was also intended to inspire students to explore careers in aviation, a growing industry with high-demand opportunities.
According to a 2025 industry report, the global aviation field will need more than 1.4 million new professionals over the next decade to meet increasing demand driven by fleet expansion, rising travel numbers and retirements among current workers.
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About the George W. Gillemot Foundation
Established in 2003, the George W. Gillemot Foundation honors the legacy of George W. Gillemot, an aviator, inventor, entrepreneur and philanthropist who pursued his passions for flight, education, research, workforce development, and economic renewal for northern Nevada. Through financial contributions to schools, universities, and nonprofits, the Gillemot Foundation empowers organizations to expand aviation, drones and aerospace education, spark curiosity, and build a long runway of future talent in northern Nevada.
