6 | Chapters
2nd Annual International Learn to Fly Day EAA chapters and other aviation organizations hosted 200 events during the International Learn to Fly Day in May. Thanks to the efforts of these chapters, tens of thousands of people participated in the events that provided complimentary adult orientation flights. EAA is a leader in the effort to introduce the fun and freedom of flight to people of all ages, thanks to the outpouring of support from aviators throughout the nation and world. Grassroots Pilot Tours During the first year of Grassroots Pilot Tours, EAA President and CEO Rod Hightower and other senior leader team members made more than 150 chapter visits, where they discussed leading aviation issues and how EAA is working to grow participation in aviation. Chapter Leaders Academy Ninety-three chapter leaders graduated from Chapter Leaders Academy in 2011, bringing the total number of graduates to 445 since the program’s inception. The academy is an interactive workshop weekend focused on topics important to chapter leaders, including recruitment, fundraising, public relations, and EAA resources and programs. Building upon its 60 years of experience, EAA is able to share best-in-class practices with the new leaders of aviation’s largest and most impactful community of aviators, which is essential to sustaining EAA as a world-class organization. In 2012: • The Chapter Leadership Academy will hit the road. • EAA staff will be making regional visits to chapters. • EAA will be providing chapters with tools to grow, including the introduction of Eagle Flights.
Main photo courtesy Steve Cukierski