The Federal Aviation Administration has again tapped Ascension Air President and CEO Jamail Larkins to be the agency’s partner and honorary ambassador for Aviation and Space Education.
He and FAA Acting Administrator Michael P. Huerta recently signed a memorandum of understanding extending the relationship. Larkins has served as the program’s official ambassador since 2004, successfully drawing attention to aviation career opportunities for America’s youth.
“It is a privilege to work with the FAA to help America’s youth learn about the life opportunities available to them in aviation,” Larkins said. “I speak to elementary, middle school and high school students about the exciting aerospace careers possible for students proficient in science, technology, engineering and math.” (Larkins, left, with FAA Acting Administrator Michael Huerta.)
“Our industry is in critical need of attracting a qualified and talented workforce for this century, and the FAA’s efforts ensure that more than 200,000 students get educated about the possibilities of a career in aviation,” Larkins said. “Over the past seven years, it’s been an honor to be a small part of the FAA’s success with the Embry-Riddle DreamLaunch Tour.”
DreamLaunch Tour
Through the DreamLaunch Tour, with 18-20 stops annually, Larkins has spoken to thousands of students and teachers to raise awareness of the benefits of the aviation industry to America. He has been featured in a variety of major media interviews, including with CNN, Fox News Channel, Parade Magazine, NBC Nightly News and more.
Larkins’ FAA presentation shows students how to create a flight plan for their life journey. Larkins says the navigation principles used in successful flying can also lead to successful living and to making dreams a reality.
The primary component of each stop on Larkins’ DreamLaunch Tour is a high-energy presentation that begins with video clips of Larkins flying aerobatics in a high-performance aircraft. He talks about how he started flight training at the age of 12, soloed in Canada at 14, and started his own aviation sales company at 15.
About Ascension Air
Ascension Air, the company he heads today at the age of 27, is a Cirrus fractional ownership partner with a fleet of new SR22 GTS aircraft based at DeKalb-Peachtree Airport in Atlanta. Ascension Air also leases, sells and charters business aircraft.
More details on the FAA’s Aviation and Space Education Outreach Program (STEM-AVSED) can be found at faa.gov/education. For more information on Ascension Air go to: ascensionaircraft.com.
