The sky is not the limit, it’s just the beginning for Williamson County Schools (WCS) students who dream of a career in aviation. Through a new partnership between WCS and Hawkins Flight Academy, high school students will soon have the opportunity to explore flight firsthand as part of their school day.

A Runway to Real-World Aviation

Launching in August 2026, the district’s new Innovation Center will open doors to hands-on learning in one of Tennessee’s fastest-growing industries. The partnership with Hawkins Flight Academy ensures students receive real-world training from certified flight instructors and gain flight experience while still in high school.

“Aviation is one of the most exciting and fast-growing industries in Tennessee,” said Innovation Center Assistant Director Kris Schneider. “If a student wants to learn about flight, engineering, or travel, the Innovation Center will offer a runway to exciting and high-demand careers.”

From Classroom to Cockpit

Through College, Career and Technical Education (CCTE) programs and dual enrollment opportunities, students will study aviation fundamentals that align with Tennessee Department of Education standards. Senior-level students will even be able to enroll in flight school during the school day, earning valuable flight hours that count toward their pilot certification.

This collaboration represents a true bridge between academic learning and professional aviation training. With Hawkins Flight Academy’s guidance, students will gain the confidence and experience needed to pursue careers in piloting, aerospace engineering, or aviation management.

Exploring Future Horizons

Currently, an enthusiastic group of students known as the Aviation Explorers meet monthly at the Entrepreneurship Center to receive aviation training and mentorship. The new Innovation Center will expand this opportunity to even more students across Williamson County.

“Whether you dream of flying planes, designing them, or improving flight safety, aviation offers a future full of opportunity,” said Schneider. “With the support of Williamson County Schools, TDOT, Hawkins Flight Academy, and Tennessee’s growing aviation industry, students are cleared for takeoff.”

Get Involved

Students or parents interested in attending the Innovation Center next year can complete the official interest form available through Williamson County Schools.

For more information about the Aviation Explorers program, contact Kris Schneider at kriss@wcs.edu.

Learn More

To read the original Williamson County Schools article, visit Exploring Aviation at the Innovation Center → .

Hawkins Flight Academy is proud to partner with WCS to inspire and prepare the next generation of aviators, because at Hawkins, the sky is only the beginning.