07/16/2026
On June 9th 2026, the Franconia Soaring Foundation (FSF) hosted two NH Career and Technical Centers based at Littleton High School (Littleton, NH) and Kennett High School (Conway, NH). Both of these schools have been actively teaching a STEM Aviation program developed by the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association and sponsored by the FSF.
The weather was perfect and 22 students received introductory ground instruction, the opportunity to warm up in a flight simulator, and glider flights with licensed FAA instructors. They also participated in the daily safety brief and learned safe ground handling procedures. All of the students received a glider logbook endorsed by their flight instructor as well as a T-Shirt from the FSF.
Lunch, hot dogs, and hamburgers were provided and cooked by educator Mr. Jeremy Brown from Littleton High School (Hugh Gallen CTC). Kennett's teacher (MWV Career Technology Center) Mr. Scott Lajoe was available and helping out as well.
An honorable mention and a big thank you to Ed Bergeron and the Eastern Slopes Aviation Academy (ESAA) at Fryeburg Maine who were also instrumental in getting the STEM programs into both schools, to the Foundation’s generous donors whose contributions make this day possible, and to the volunteers from the Franconia Soaring Association (FSA).
It was a pleasure and joy for both the FSF and the FSA volunteers to see the smiles and excitement when these young potential aviators experience the joy of soaring; motorless flight. We look forward to next year and welcoming many more new students!
Special thanks go out to Glenn Mori, the FSF Education Committee Chair, whose leadership and energy brought it all together, and to FSF Director and mentor Kristen Gould for engaging with the students on STEM opportunities!
