The NAYR (National Aviation Youth Resources) Foundation Inc is a year-around aviation program. The academy offers an interactive introduction to the aviation industry and careers to elementary, middle, and high school students. The purpose of the academy is to introduce youth to the world of aviation by exposing them to the many challenging careers and opportunities the industry has to offer. Students will have the opportunity to interact with active professionals, receive career mentoring, take several field trips, and see how professionals perform in their roles. The academy will conclude with students taking an orientation flight.
NAYR Foundation strives to give close to 600 students a year in grades K-12 an introduction to the aviation industry through various hands-on engagements. This program uses the STEM approach: integrating Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics to reinforce important 21st century skills. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, STEM careers made up 6.2% of all jobs across the nation and is projected to continue growing through 2024. NAYR Foundation helps students find pathways to these careers through year around programming they host.
NAYR Foundation Inc dba Indianapolis ACE Academy Historical Facts:
Over 14,000 students enrolled into program and over 10,000 have moved into education institutions for aviation
Over 50 volunteers yearly
Sponsorships & Scholarship Support
Located throughout Indiana
Divested group of students from all backgrounds and areas
Offer various resources for students starting careers within aviation
We utilize the 4 fundamentals throughout all the programing through the NAYR Foundation. The DREAMcomponent is achieved through our exploratory camps. The EDUCATE component is achieved through our year around programing with 4-H & Scouts of America . Our MENTOR component is a group of professionals who have committed a portion of their time to help the youth stay connected within the aviation industry as well as being a sounding board. The ACHIEVE component is accomplished through the NAYR Foundation helping place students in internships, trade schools, colleges, and other educational opportunities to help them reach careers! We pride ourselves on being a well-rounded program for students interested in aviation. We strive to accomplish soft skill knowledge, community service, and team building components.
Philanthropic History: Captain Ryan Lynch has a vision of helping youth become aware of the offerings within the aviation industry. His passion for youth started at a young age when he looked back at the age, he wanted to become a pilot, age 5. He realized there was no youth programming of its kind and wanted to create an experience for the youth to experience in order for them to achieve their goals.
The NAYR Foundation is located at 2175 S Hoffman Road, Indianapolis, IN 46241 (located inside the Vincennes University Aviation Technology Center building).
