City of Temple Airport Supports Launch of Aviation STEM Program at Belton ISD
    City of Temple Airport Supports Launch of Aviation STEM Program at Belton ISD
    City Media Releases

    City of Temple Airport Supports Launch of Aviation STEM Program at Belton ISD

    TEMPLE, TX (January 9, 2026) — A new partnership between the City of Temple's Draughon-Miller Central Texas Regional Airport and Belton Independent School District (BISD) is helping introduce students to career pathways in aviation through a hands-on Aviation STEM program.
    The initiative began after BISD Superintendent Dr. Malinda Golden connected with City of Temple leadership to explore opportunities to support aviation education within the district.

    The initiative began after BISD Superintendent Dr. Malinda Golden connected with City of Temple leadership to explore opportunities to support aviation education within the district.

    Through this collaboration, city staff worked alongside BISD Director of PK–12 Career Readiness Denise Ayers to connect the district with the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association’s (AOPA) You Can Fly High School Aviation STEM Curriculum, a free pilot ground school program designed to inspire the next generation of aviation professionals.

    "We are incredibly excited about this partnership with the City of Temple Executive Air Center. It reflects our community’s shared commitment to empowering every learner to pursue their dreams while strengthening the future of our workforce. By providing high-quality, real-world learning experiences for our Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering students, we are moving beyond the four walls of the classroom to ignite innovation and develop critical thinking skills. We are deeply grateful to our partners for opening their doors and helping bridge classroom learning with high-demand careers beyond graduation."

    Gabi Nino, Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning

    Belton ISD assembled a team of administrators and educators to build the program and partnered with the City of Temple Airport to provide real-world exposure to the aviation industry. As part of this effort, city staff supported light renovations to the Elmer Reed Terminal, transforming the space into a classroom where students periodically meet on-site at the airport.
    Throughout the past semester, students enrolled in the program have had opportunities to engage with aviation industry professionals, including pilots, air traffic professionals, flight schools, military representatives, and airport staff. Students also participated in airport tours, gaining up-close exposure to aircraft and airport operations.
    Sean Intro.jpgPilot Showcases his aircraft.jpgBelton ISD Career Builder Recognition 3_.jpgBISD Career Builder Recognition_.jpg
    The Aviation STEM program is currently hosted at Belton New Tech High School and continues to grow through collaborative support from BISD and the City of Temple Airport. City staff have also been recognized by BISD leadership for their role as community partners and career supporters through the district’s Career and Industry Advisory Board.

    “Our team holds strong to the sentiment that the future of aviation depends on inspiring the next generation today. By partnering with Belton ISD, we’re giving students hands-on exposure to aviation careers and helping them see a clear path from the classroom to the workforce. Programs like this strengthen our region by building the skilled talent that will support aviation and economic growth for years to come.”

    Andrew Hill, FBO Manager

    This partnership reflects a shared commitment to workforce development, student engagement, and expanding access to high-demand career fields within the region. For more information about the Aviation STEM initiative or the City of Temple Draughon-Miller Central Texas Regional Airport, visit flytemple.com.