Michael D’Anna, left, Chief Flight Instructor at Gregg Flying Service at Animas Airpark, and a student demonstrate the mechanics of a gyroscope during an Aviation Flight Pathway class at Impact Career Innovation Center on Oct. 16.
The year-long course currently has 22 students enrolled in its inaugural class and meets twice a week at Impact Career Innovation Center, on the Durango High School campus. The new Aviation Flight Pathway joins Durango School District’s 14 CTE programs that connect students to real-world career opportunities.
Under the guidance of Jaden Mankins, DHS Aviation Flight Pathway teacher and a certified flight instructor, students are exploring the fundamentals of flight through interactive computer-based lessons and flight simulation software. The program provides a strong foundation in aerodynamics, navigation, weather, and aviation safety — preparing students for future studies and careers in the field.
Jaden Mankins, center, leads the Aviation Flight Pathway class on Oct. 16.
The first-year course culminates with students taking the FAA Private Pilot’s written exam, a critical milestone toward earning a private pilot license. While the DHS program does not include flight hours, students will tour local aviation facilities and gain hands-on exposure to aircraft and aviation technology. Mankins estimates the free resources in the class will help students and their families save $2,000 toward a career in aviation while they are still in high school.
Principal Jon Hoerl said the idea took off after analyzing student aptitude and career interest data from the YouScience platform, which helps students discover their natural talents and strengths and supports them in life beyond school. He said there was a strong interest in aviation-related careers, so school leadership built a pathway that connects that curiosity to real opportunities.
“We knew from our data and the information gathered during one-on-one meetings with our academic advisors that there was a strong interest in the aviation industry,” said Hoerl. “We are extremely grateful to our aviation instructors and excited about the outpouring of community support for this program. Having everyone step up and provide this opportunity for our kids is amazing.”
Mankins, a lifelong Durango resident and DHS alumnus, began his own aviation journey in high school and now provides flight instruction throughout the region. “I want to get more people into aviation in the community. I love it, it’s a passion of mine,” said Mankins. “We had over 100 kids interested in the class. They can learn what part of aviation might fit them. Everyone has their different thing.”
Students will also benefit from the expertise of Michael D’Anna, Chief Flight Instructor at Gregg Flying Service at Animas Airpark. He’s a veteran pilot with more than 5,000 flight hours in over 40 types of aircraft, ranging from small piston planes to jets.
“Aviation is booming in Durango,” said D’Anna. “They’re saying in 2030 there will be a shortage of pilots, because the older guys time out. The industry is cyclical, but as a whole, pilots are always in demand. Locally, it’s going to keep getting busier. This DHS program is going to be a big thing.”