The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) Office of Aeronautics (Aero) has announced an Aviation Education and Workforce Development Funding Program for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025. The aviation industry in Michigan is facing a workforce shortage with the demand for pilots, aircraft mechanics and other aviation professionals outpacing supply. Addressing this shortage is critical for ensuring the safety and efficiency of Michigan’s aviation system. The Aviation Education and Workforce Development Program is intended to provide $50,000 in one-time funding for initiatives which will strengthen Michigan’s aviation workforce through education, training, and/or community outreach.
This is a Call for Projects for Aviation-Related Education and/or Aviation Workforce Development Projects.
MDOT Aero intends to fund projects in alignment with its mission statement to “Develop and preserve a safe, high-quality, statewide air transportation system.”
General Information and Guidelines
Applicants will be competing for grants under this Aviation Education and Workforce Development Program.
Airports; aviation facilities; non-profit organizations supporting aviation; and K-12 schools, technical programs, colleges, and universities offering or starting aviation programs and/or employing staff for aviation jobs and activities are eligible.
Examples of eligible projects include but are not limited to:
- Growing established aviation professional education programs
- Supporting integration of aviation curriculum into K-12 schools or technical centers
- Acquisition of materials needed to support aviation training and development
- Support of community engagement opportunities to recruit qualified aviation staff
Multiple projects may be included on one application for a combined maximum of $50,000.
Funds must be expended by August 31, 2026.
For selected projects, the intent is to provide grant funding directly to the recipient as early as possible after sponsor contract execution. Specific contract terms and payment processes will be included in an award letter, along with information on other required administrative, reporting, and financial reporting functions.
All required permits, processes, and approvals will remain the responsibility of the awardee including but not limited to project design, procurement / bid letting (if needed), and other items involved in completing the work.
Selection Criteria
Projects will be selected by a committee of Aeronautics staff with recommendations by the Michigan Aeronautics Commission (MAC) Aviation Career Pipeline Committee. All selections will be considered for:
- Impact of investment on Michigan’s future aviation workforce
- Local support and impact on local aviation
- Project completion timeline
- Sustainability of program funding use
Program Timeline:
- Application Deadline June 20, 2025
- Project Selections Announced July 7, 2025
- Request for MAC Action/Approval July 16, 2025
- Sponsor Contracts Executed September 1, 2025
- Project Start September 15, 2025
If you wish to be considered for this program, please submit a cover letter, completed application, and any additional documentation to Alicia Morrison at MorrisonA5@michigan.gov by June 20, 2025.
