As the founder of Heartland Aeronautical Experience, I’ve spent years working to inspire students and underserved individuals across Oklahoma to pursue careers in aviation. Our mission is built around one simple truth: A strong future in aerospace depends on a well-prepared, passionate workforce.
That’s why we’ve been working to repurpose a decommissioned Federal Aviation Administration air traffic control trailer into a mobile aerospace career museum — bringing the excitement and opportunity of this industry directly to communities across our state. And there’s no better place for this work than Oklahoma, home to the FAA Academy and a long tradition of aviation leadership.
But as policymakers consider how to fix our aging air traffic control system, we need to stay focused on the solutions that work. That means investing in controller hiring, modernizing outdated systems and improving safety infrastructure. What it does not mean is privatizing air traffic control.
Privatization would shift oversight away from public accountability and could make it harder for rural airports, general aviation users, and future aviation professionals to have a seat at the table. In places like Shawnee, and for students just beginning to dream of aerospace careers, we can’t afford to lose access or opportunity.
Let’s fix what’s broken — and make sure we’re building a stronger future for the next generation of aviation professionals.
https://tulsaworld.com/opinion/letters/article_0b7f2de1-a950-408e-91cc-875c713198ba.html