EAA’s Collegiate Volunteer Program Offers the Experience of a Lifetime

March 9, 2017 - EAA’s Collegiate Volunteer Program allows students from all backgrounds and from all over the country the opportunity gain work experience and make networking connections at The World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration, EAA AirVenture Oshkosh.

“This program is a wonderful opportunity for college aviation students, who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford it, to experience Oshkosh,” said Weston Harris who participated in the program during EAA AirVenture 2016.

While most participants in the program are pursuing an education and career in aviation, the Collegiate Volunteer Program is also a great place to gain skills in a variety of areas. EAA HR business partner Michelle Farr said volunteers can gain experience in business, customer service, flightline operations, event management, and many other areas. Plus, volunteers make professional connections with businesses within and outside the aviation community while getting a behind the scenes look at the convention.

 “Through this program I was able to get up close and personal with airplanes, pilots, and inner workings of AirVenture with no prior experience,” 2016 volunteer Andrew Pfluger said. “The amenities are top notch, the volunteer family is just that, and everyone treats collegiate volunteers like VIPs. This is an experience you will remember for a lifetime.”

In addition to a unique perspective on AirVenture and the opportunity to build their resumes, collegiate volunteers receive a free six-month EAA membership, admission to the full week of AirVenture for 20 hours of volunteered time, meals and beverages during their shifts, and complimentary camping if they volunteer for 30 hours.

“The work is fun, the aircraft are awesome, and the people are some of the best around,” Weston said. “It’s a great experience and I would recommend it to everybody.”