Aerium
Aerium: Promoting Aerospace Investment, Innovation, and Workforce Development in PA and Beyond
Learn more at aerium.org
Aviation and Aerospace is more than piloting airplanes, drones, and rockets; it encompasses the skilled workforce that designs, maintains, operates, and supports these technologies. Aerium, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, fosters collaborative economic and workforce development partnerships to ensure Pennsylvania leads in marketing cutting-edge technologies. The organization equips the workforce with skills, experience, and credentials for fulfilling careers in aviation and aerospace.
Through opportunities for students, industry partnerships, and a focus on innovation, Aerium is transforming the aviation landscape in Pennsylvania and beyond.
A Vision for the Future
Aerium’s mission is to connect the aviation and aerospace sectors through strategic partnerships and advocacy. With unprecedented demand for professionals in aeronautics, aerospace defense, and unmanned aerial systems (UAS), Aerium is bridging the skills gap by providing essential resources, funding, and curricula for schools and educators. Through this combination, Aerium has played a pivotal role in expanding aviation Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. This includes facilitating the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s approval of statewide CTE program components, promoting aviation-related micro-credentialing programs, and developing regional career pathways that lead directly to jobs or further education.
Impacting Students Across Pennsylvania
Through collaborations with organizations like the AOPA Foundation and Unmanned Safety Institute, Aerium supports aviation programs in numerous high schools, Career Technical Centers (CTCs), and nonprofits throughout Pennsylvania. A crucial component is hands-on experience, with Aerium leveraging funding for equipment such as flight simulators and drone kits, supported by initiatives like the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program. The Aerium Summit brings students and industry leaders together, exemplified by the 2024 event that attracted nearly 350 participants, including 98 students from 21 schools.
Leading the Way in Drone Innovation
Aerium is advancing drone technology for healthcare logistics through a collaborative drone delivery program for emergency medical supplies, backed by a $2 million US Department of Transportation Smart Grant. This initiative aims to deliver medical supplies to remote areas, positioning Aerium as a leader in autonomous aviation. Partnerships with St. Francis University and Indiana University of Pennsylvania further enhance drone education, ensuring workforce readiness.
Looking Ahead
Aerium is committed to aviation education and workforce growth, with plans to establish an Aerospace Innovation and Maintenance Hub at John Murtha Johnstown-Cambria County Airport. As Pennsylvania strengthens its role in aerospace, Aerium demonstrates that with vision and investment, the sky is not the limit!