Juniors and seniors partner with Corpus Christi Army Depot to design, build, and roll out a fully student-crafted aircraft.
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Flour Bluff High School students are soaring to new heights—literally. Over the past two years, juniors and seniors in the district’s Hornet Aviation Program have built an aircraft entirely by hand, culminating in a rollout that showcases their skills and dedication.
The program is a partnership with the Corpus Christi Army Depot (CCAD), whose volunteers serve as mentors, guiding students through everything from engines and hardware to software, cutting, and forming materials.
CCAD Commander Kevin Consedine said, “Our artisans at the depot support Army aircraft all over the world in the most demanding missions you can imagine. These students were held to the same professional standards. It speaks so highly of them, the people they are, and the people they’re going to become.”
For many students, the experience has been life-changing. Junior in aviation program, Katareana Womack said, “I always had a love for aviation. Getting into this program strengthened that love and gave me a base set of skills to go into the field.”
Organizers noted that the aircraft was completed in roughly two years, demonstrating the potential of hands-on learning to give students real-world experience in engineering, mechanics, and aviation.
For students interested in joining the Hornet Aviation Program, Flour Bluff ISD has information on its district website, here.