More than 3,000 students from schools throughout Greater Boston and New England are expected to attend the 7th Annual Aviation /Transportation Education Expo 2000 sponsored by the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), United Airlines and the Massachusetts Pre-Engineering Program (MassPeP) on Tuesday, April 11, from 9:30a.m. to 12:30p.m. in the United Airline hangar at Logan International Airport.

This years Expo, "Pathways to the Future", is part of Massports Concerned Minority Employees Program which is held annually to introduce students to the wide variety of career opportunities avialable in the aviation and transportation industries. The Department of Transportation enriched the event by joining the Expo in support of the Garrett A. Morgan Transportation Futures Program. In addition, East Boston High School's "Travel and Tourism Academy" students shadow industry presenters during the event.

The Expo began in 1994 with 750 students attending. Since then, the event has grown considerably with over 3,000 pre-school to high school students participating from 40 schools around the New England area including, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island.

Massport Executive Director and CEO Virginia Buckingham said, "The Expo opens the door for students to preview the dynamic job opportunities in the aviation and transportation industry. By collabrating with the FAA, United, and MassPep, we are contributing to a brighter future for the youth of New England."

United Airlines Manager of Maintence Operations Robert Barnes said, United is proud to provide our ramp space for this special event. Sponsoring the Expo each year provides United an opportunity to repay the community for its long standing support."

Ken Cray, director of school programs for MassPEP said, "The Expo is a tremendous opportunity for students to learn about the career paths available within the field of aviation and transportation."

New England Regional FAA Administrator, Dr. Robert S.Bartanowicz, complimented all the agencies involved for extending an open hand to area youth, giving them unique advantage to explore career opportunities in aviation. "Programs such as Expo 2000 demonstrate to young people that there are a variety of interesting and well paying jobs avialable in all areas of transportation."

The event expects over 45 exhibitors to participate in Expo 2000. Among the days highlights will be presentations by the FAA, United Airlines, and military representatives from the Army, Marines, Air Force, and many others.

To encourage classroom discussions and further learning, an art contest is held in conjuction with the Expo. Younger students enter the contest by submitting Expo inspired artwork. Older student competitors submit a Wright Brothers Model that they build in their classroom prior to the event. Entries are judged by a panel. Students and their teachers are recognized with prizes.

More in this Section