Our work alongside the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), the world’s largest aviation organization, stems from a shared mission: to inspire the next generation of aviators. For over 85 years, AOPA has protected the freedom to fly. As drones became aviation’s fastest-growing segment, AOPA embraced these new aircraft as an important part of general aviation. This alignment connects Rocket Drones’ hands-on K-12 programs with AOPA’s prestigious high school curriculum, creating a complete pathway from classroom curiosity to FAA certification.
About AOPA
Founded in 1939, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association has been the leading voice for aviation advocacy for over eight decades. With more than 300,000 members, it is the largest aviation organization in the world. In 2015, AOPA launched the You Can Fly initiative, a transformative program designed to build a vibrant and growing pilot community.
As part of this initiative, AOPA provides a free high school curriculum with both Pilot and Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) pathways. This incredible resource has already engaged over 71,000 students, with 60% of graduates actively pursuing aviation careers. Just like Rocket Drones, AOPA’s curriculum is STEM.org accredited, a testament to its quality and rigor.
A Pilot Is a Pilot
AOPA’s philosophy on drones is simple and inclusive: “A pilot is a pilot is a pilot, no matter what you fly.” This forward-thinking approach recognizes that drones are a powerful entry point into the broader world of aviation. By welcoming drone pilots into the community, AOPA helps build a united front that benefits everyone who shares the sky.
The AOPA High School Curriculum offers two distinct CTE tracks. The UAS pathway prepares students for their [Part 107 Course] certification, while the Pilot pathway prepares them for the Private Pilot Knowledge Test. Students begin with a common foundation in aviation principles before choosing their specialization, ensuring that all participants gain a comprehensive understanding of flight, whether their passion leads to a drone to pilot career or another role in the skies.
A Complete K-12 Pipeline
Our programs and AOPA’s You Can Fly initiative create a seamless K-12 aviation STEM education pipeline. While AOPA provides its world-class curriculum to grades 9-12 for free, Rocket Drones specializes in bringing hands-on drone technology and gamified learning to students from 3rd to 12th grade.
This complementary approach allows schools to build a comprehensive program. Younger students can discover the fundamentals of flight with our [School Programs] and [Drone Racing Programs], sparking an early interest in aviation. When they reach high school, they are perfectly prepared to excel in AOPA’s rigorous CTE pathway. This powerful combination ensures students arrive at their FAA certification exams with years of foundational knowledge and practical experience.
Scholarships and Career Support
The opportunities in aviation are immense. Boeing forecasts a global need for 649,000 new pilots by 2042 to address a critical workforce shortage. AOPA is committed to helping students meet this demand. In 2025 alone, AOPA distributed a record $2.2 million in scholarships.
These awards include $10,000 scholarships for students ages 16-18 through the Ray Foundation and $20,000 professional flight training scholarships from Boeing. There are even scholarships for teachers who use the You Can Fly curriculum. For schools seeking to launch their programs, our team can help you [Find Funding] to make these dreams a reality.
Closing
The sky remains within reach for everyone. With AOPA’s 85 years of aviation leadership and Rocket Drones’ hands-on drone education, students have a clear pilot certification pathway from their very first flight to their first fulfilling career.