2026 National AEO School benefits members, communities

This summer 49 aerospace education leaders representing all eight regions and 25 wings came together in Dayton, Ohio, at the 23rd Civil Air Patrol National Aerospace Education Officers (AEO) School for four days of engaging training on the duties and responsibilities of an AEO. The event, held at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base June 23-26, provided AE leaders opportunities for networking, brainstorming, developing solutions via workshopping, engaging learning activities, and more.

Dr. Shayla Freeman, CAP’s director of aerospace education, said National AEO School benefits both members and their communities.

“National AEO School is an opportunity for AEOs from across the country to learn, collaborate, and strengthen the skills that help us better serve our communities,” she said. “Every session and conversation reinforces the value of sharing ideas and learning from one another.”

This was the second year the school has been held in Dayton, Ohio. Last year’s event was the first, preceded by schools held in Pensacola and Cocoa Beach, Florida.

Lt. Col. Michael Castania, New Jersey Wing Director of Aerospace Education (DAE), has presented during the past six National AEO Schools, including the 2026 school.

He says the training transforms “abstract aerospace doctrine into viable and actionable strategy.”

Throughout the sessions, AEOs experienced teamwork, building, testing, and using the STEM resources - lessons and educational tools - that they can then use in their squadrons with the cadets and senior members.

They explored CAP programs, such as Aerospace Connections in Education (ACE), Aerospace Education Excellence (AEX), the Aerospace Education Member (AEM) program, and the STEM Kit program.

“Attendees gained valuable insight, clarity, and inspiration as they learned to utilize our ACE, AEX, and AEM programs, educational outreach strategies, along with utilizing K-12 STEM tools,” Castania said. “This leads to building effective communication channels with national staff, and networking with colleagues, and peer educators to share best practices fulfilling CAP's Aerospace Education mission.” 

On the day before the sessions began, participants had the option to tour the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, where they were able to take part in a two-hour tour led by a CAP senior member who is a museum docent. The CAP-focused tour highlighted CAP-related events throughout history.

As for the future, the school is designed to help the students, their squadrons, and their communities long after the closing graduation ceremony.

"I am grateful to our attendees, presenters, and staff for making this year's school such a meaningful and successful experience," director Freeman said. "The relationships built and knowledge shared during AEO school week will continue to have a positive impact throughout the year."