Applications are now open for Aviators in Schools , a new nationwide initiative from Australia's national science agency, CSIRO, delivered in partnership with Aviation/Aerospace Australia.
The program connects teachers with aviation and aerospace professionals to bring real‑world STEM learning into classrooms and inspire the next generation of industry talent, at a time where advanced technologies are unlocking new opportunities in the aviation sector.
Australia faces a STEM skills shortage, with persistently low participation of women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in STEM. Programs like Aviators in Schools play an essential role in building capability and broadening access to future career pathways.
Director of Education and Outreach at CSIRO, Ruth Carr, said the initiative aims to make STEM learning more engaging and relevant for students.
"STEM education is critical to Australia's long-term success and to improving employment opportunities for young people. It provides students with the skills and confidence to explore a wide range of career options and contribute to the industries shaping our future," said Ms Carr.
The program brings aviation and aerospace professionals through flexible industry partnerships that can include mentoring, career talks, site visits, hands-on demonstrations and co-developed projects aligned with curriculum goals — helping students see how STEM connects to real careers.
Chief Executive of Aviation/Aerospace Australia, Anntonette Dailey, said the program addresses known barriers to participation.
"Evidence consistently shows that when we have a diverse workforce, we bring in new perspectives, make stronger decisions, and create the kind of collaborative energy that drives real creativity and innovation," said Ms Dailey.
"We know that a lack of access to relevant role models and mentors, as well as awareness about the opportunities available — especially in non-traditional roles such as engineering and technical jobs – continue to present a significant barrier to participation.
"We are proud to partner with CSIRO to address these gaps and attract new talent, particularly women, to the industry," explained Ms Dailey.
Early participants are already seeing the benefits.
Steevi-Anne Flack, Teacher at Findon Primary School in Victoria credited her paired professional, Joelle Chia, an aeronautical engineer, for helping the school shape its new STEM program.
"STEM was a new initiative in our school, and our vision wasn't clear on where we wanted to take it. This collaboration brought fresh ideas and helped us see exciting possibilities," said Ms Flack.
"Students were engaged in the lessons and experiments, and it was fascinating for them to see real-world connections, especially when activities like making lava lamps linked to aerospace engineering."
Aviators in School is free for registered teachers in Australian primary and secondary schools and is welcoming applications from teachers and STEM professionals with experience in aviation, aerospace or related fields.
"Sometimes it's hard for students to connect their learning to real-life scenarios or imagine where their interest could take them. Having someone working in the field share their passion and experiences really helped spark their thinking in STEM," said Ms Flack.
The initiative is part of CSIRO's STEM Professionals in Schools program, which in 2025 supported 1,100 registered teachers and 900 STEM professionals across Australia.
Aviators in Schools is supported by the Australian Government Department of Education and the Australian Government Women in Aviation Industry Initiative, and is delivered by CSIRO in partnership with Aviation/Aerospace Australia.
