This initiative focuses on developing tailored curricula for high school students, preparing them for careers as pilots, aerospace engineers, and drone operators.The aviation sector faces a critical skills gap. The FAAs investment comes in response to these challenges.The International Air Transport Association (IATA) says that the industry has been facing challenges in recruiting and retaining pilots, citing the high cost and time required for training. The FAA grants aim to mitigate these challenges, supporting programs that address the lack of aviation opportunities for minorities and underprivileged students. This program aims to address the decline in aviation maintenance professionals, with about 20,000 fewer workers in the sector since the pandemics onset.IATAs survey identifies barriers to attracting candidates to maintenance and engineering careers, including lengthy training programs and challenges in certification recognition. The FAAs investment will support educational programs, scholarships, and community outreach to revive the aviation maintenance sector.Grant recipients, such as AAR Services, plan to use funds to expand apprenticeship programs and actively encourage women and students of color to pursue careers in aviation maintenance.