“The sky is no longer the limit” New aviation high school breaks ground at Bessemer Airport

Big news for Bessemer! Today, the Alabama Aerospace and Aviation High School (AAHS) broke ground on its new campus at the EKY Bessemer Airport.

Read on to learn more about the groundbreaking + what’s next for the school.

AAHS is educating the next generation of pilots

Alabama’s first aviation-focused, free public charter school, AAHS prepares its students for leadership positions in the aerospace and aviation industries through a unique, career-focused curriculum in an intentionally diverse school community.

“AAHS has already made history. We’ve shown that students from diverse backgrounds—regardless of their zip code, their race or their political affiliation—can come together for a common goal that benefits the Bessemer community and the state of Alabama.”

Ruben Morris, Founder and CEO, Alabama Aviation and Aerospace High School

Since its founding, AAHS has operated out of a temporary location in Bessemer while awaiting the construction of its permanent campus near the Bessemer Municipal Airport.

Breaking ground on a new campus

On Thursday, June 27 members of the AAHS gathered to ceremoniously break ground on their new campus.

A state-of-the-art facility located on 3.6 acres near the Bessemer Airport, the new AAHS campus will include:

• Two large classroom buildings
• Office space
• Lunchroom
• A locker room and court building
• And more

The new campus and its amenities will allow AAHS to continue its mission and educate its 400+ students—referred to as Champions.

“Today’s groundbreaking is just the begining; the first phase of a longstanding relationship with the Bessemer Airport, the City of Bessemer and the greater community.

The sky is no longer the limit.”

Ruben Morris, Founder and CEO, Alabama Aviation and Aerospace High School

During the groundbreaking ceremony, AAHS honored five of its Champions who will soon conclude the inaugural Solo Flight Academy (in partnership with Pinnacle Aerospace), a major milestone towards their private pilot licenses.

“There are several problems facing the aviation and aerospace industry—a pilot shortage, an aircraft mechanic shortage, a need for skilled workers in STEM careers for unmanned aircraft systems and more.

Everybody asks, ‘How are we going to keep up?’

Take a good look at these young men sitting on this front row. They are how we’re not just going to keep up, but how we’re going to excel.”

Ruben Morris, Founder and CEO, Alabama Aviation and Aerospace High School

Excited to see AAHS break ground on its new campus at the Bessemer Airport? Tag us @bhamnow to let us know!