Students in Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD are building rockets designed to soar past 100,000 feet, all before they graduate high school.
Behind these high-flying achievements is an educator whose dedication and vision are helping launch the next generation of aerospace professionals.
Rick Griffith, aerospace and aviation instructor at the Hollenstein Career and Technology Center, was recently recognized by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, or AIAA, North Texas Section. The organization honored him at its annual awards ceremony at the University of Texas at Arlington, highlighting his exceptional commitment to preparing students for careers in the aerospace industry.
Griffith developed the Aerospace Engineering and Aviation courses at HCTC, where students explore flight fundamentals, aircraft and rocket design and earn real-world certifications.
His classes offer hands-on experience and the opportunity to pursue Federal Aviation Administration licenses, such as commercial drone operation or a basic ground school certification. Many of his students go on to study aerospace engineering or aviation in college and pursue careers as engineers, pilots, air traffic controllers, aircraft mechanics and technicians.
“AIAA’s mission is to help aerospace professionals and their organizations succeed,” the organization shared. “Recognizing teachers like Mr. Griffith, who are shaping the future of aerospace by investing in students, is an essential part of that mission.”
In Aerospace 1, students learn the basics of flight and build hobby class rockets to test their designs. From there, they choose to specialize in either aviation or rocketry.
In Aerospace 2, students take on advanced projects, designing experimental class rockets intended to exceed 100,000 feet in altitude, with long-term goals of reaching 328,000 feet. These rockets are launched at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico and require students to work beyond the classroom, often on nights, weekends and during the summer.
With nearly 1,000 professional and student members, the AIAA North Texas Section supports programs that encourage innovation, technical excellence and leadership in the aerospace field. Recognizing educators like Griffith is part of its mission to inspire future generations.
The Fort Worth area is home to major industry leaders including Lockheed Martin, Raytheon and Bell, along with robust aviation and military operations. With dynamic outreach programs, AIAA continues to strengthen connections between industry professionals and young learners, thanks in large part to passionate educators like Rick Griffith.
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