Members of the Franklin County Composite Squadron attended a STEAM outreach event at Franklin Elementary School in Franklinton, North Carolina on May 3. The event was designed to introduce students and families to science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics through interactive activities.
The purpose of the event was to spark curiosity among students and show how STEM subjects connect to real-world careers and service opportunities. Organizers said it also aimed to support Civil Air Patrol’s goal of building awareness and encouraging future membership.
Franklin County Composite Squadron set up two stations at the event. The main table was staffed by senior members and cadets who provided information about Civil Air Patrol. A second table featured hands-on aerospace education activities. AM Joshua Adkins, Lt Cody Whitelock, Capt Gerald Underwood, Lt Gene George, C/Capt Luce Tornil, and C/Amn Bruce Tornil supported the booth.
Cadets guided students through a flight simulator that featured Franklin County Airport (KLHZ), while Lt Whitelock operated a remote-control simulator so students could explore aviation concepts interactively. Organizers mentioned that several educators might participate in a Teacher Orientation Program flight as a way to deepen their engagement with aerospace education topics.
Although targeted toward elementary school children, the event drew interest from older siblings who visited with their families and asked about joining Civil Air Patrol. Educators also expressed interest in Aerospace Education topics and requested access to CAP’s educator program.
Organizers said the evening created meaningful community connections while advancing Civil Air Patrol’s mission to inspire future generations through STEM.
