381 STEM to the Skies: How Aviation Inspires Rural Students with Dr. Victor Vogel

Dr. Victor Vogel, a former oncologist turned flight instructor, founded the nonprofit Susquehanna STEM to the Skies to improve STEM education in rural Pennsylvania. The aviation-based STEM program was launched to address declining science and math scores among students, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. By combining aviation concepts with hands-on learning, the program offers a powerful way to teach science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in real-world contexts.

Victor discovered that aviation offers rich, practical applications for STEM—such as flight navigation, time-speed-distance calculations, weight and balance, and engineering challenges. At the heart of the program is a Redbird FMX full-motion flight simulator, which draws students to the airport and anchors immersive educational experiences. Victor quickly learned that involving educators—not just pilots—was critical. Today, the board includes school superintendents, career technical center (CTC) leaders, and drone experts.

Students experience aviation careers beyond piloting, including aircraft maintenance, drone operation, medical helicopter crews, and aerospace engineering. Field trips, Girl Scout and Boy Scout aviation badge events, career fairs, and summer STEM camps all expose kids to high-demand aviation-related fields. Programs often include time in the simulator, tours of LifeFlight helicopters, and visits to maintenance hangars and paint shops.

Partnering with Sun Technical Institute, the program offers career-track students opportunities to fabricate metal airplanes and build Mars rover kits. A Redbird J desktop simulator expands access for physically challenged students. Another initiative included building a pedal-powered Piper Cub with students, demonstrating how aviation and vocational trades can intersect creatively.

Several success stories highlight the program’s impact. One former flight attendant is now a multi-rated certified flight instructor after a single inspiring simulator session. Others have moved on to flight schools, the Air Force Academy, or regional airline careers. The program’s ripple effect is also reaching educators. One high school band director attended the AOPA High School STEM Symposium, launched an aviation club, and introduced aviation curriculum into his school.

The organization was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) in late 2020—just as the COVID-19 pandemic was surging. Despite the initial slow progress, Victor journaled his efforts during the pandemic, later publishing them in his book Pains and Planes, which captures both the struggle of cancer patients during COVID and his dream of launching a STEM nonprofit.

Looking forward, Victor emphasizes the importance of finding volunteers—especially retired pilots, mechanics, teachers, and educators. He believes many people are simply waiting to be asked to contribute. He encourages others to replicate this aviation nonprofit model in their own communities by starting with educators, partnering with local airports, forming a nonprofit, and reaching out to media for visibility.

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