10/05/2024
Groups 5 & 6 Collaborate to Supply Aircraft for ACE Awards Flight
By Capt. Thomas Cznarty
West Palm Beach, Fla. — Groups 5 and 6 have teamed up to provide aircraft for the ACE (Aerospace Connections in Education) Awards Flight, a special event celebrating standout achievements in aerospace education. The collaboration is highlighted by the involvement of ACE Student of the Year, Kyle Adams, and ACE Teacher of the Year, Lt. Thomas Ellis, both of whom have made significant contributions to the program.
Kyle Adams, a student at Palm Beach Day Academy and a participant in the CAP (Civil Air Patrol) Aerospace Curriculum, has distinguished himself as a leader among his peers. His achievements in aerospace education earned him the top student award, and now he will play a key role in the ACE Awards Flight—a symbolic event that highlights the success of the program and its participants.
Lt. Thomas Ellis, a seasoned officer in the Civil Air Patrol’s North Palm Beach Squadron, was named ACE Teacher of the Year for his dedication to inspiring the next generation of aerospace leaders. His work with students like Adams through the CAP Aerospace Curriculum has been instrumental in their success. Ellis, a longtime advocate for aerospace education, has worked closely with both Lt. Col Shaw, Maj. Bynum, Group 5 and Group 6 and CAP National to ensure the logistical success of the flight.
The ACE Awards Flight served as both a celebration and demonstration of the achievements within the program. By providing aircraft for the event, Groups 5 and 6 are showcasing the power of collaboration between community organizations, schools, and aerospace leaders.
“We’re thrilled to be part of this event,” said Lt. Ellis. “The ACE program is all about fostering leadership, teamwork, and technical skills in our students, and this flight is a culmination of all that hard work. Kyle has been an incredible example of what students can achieve, and we’re proud to support him and all the honorees.”
Kyle Adams, who has shown a deep commitment to aerospace studies, shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming flight. “Being named ACE Student of the Year is an incredible honor, and I’m excited to be part of the ACE Awards Flight,” Adams said. “This program has given me so many opportunities, and I’m grateful for the guidance of Lt. Ellis and the support of everyone involved.”
The partnership between Groups 5 and 6 has been key in securing the aircraft needed for the flight, ensuring that the event runs smoothly and highlights the importance of aerospace education in shaping the future.
The ACE Awards Flight, which took place on September 21st at North County Airport, provided a unique platform for celebrating the accomplishments of students and educators alike while reinforcing the importance of aerospace education and its impact on future careers in aviation and beyond.