GECDSB Students Soar at Airshow London’s Education Day

Inspiring the next generation of aviation and aerospace leaders!

On Friday, Airshow London welcomed more than 3,000 students to their annual Education Day at Greater London International Airport Authority — a unique opportunity to see aviation and aerospace curriculum come to life.

We are especially proud of the Greater Essex County District School Board (GECDSB) students in the Aviation & Aerospace Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) program at Sandwich Secondary School who are starting their Bronze Award by developing skills and exploring career pathways in the industry.

Award Canada’s Education Consultant, Laura Briscoe, joined Scott McFadzean, CEO of London International Airport, to personally welcome the students and teachers. CEO McFadzean presented Award Leader and teacher, Robbie Jasey, with the Award Canada Level 1 pin for Rob’s dedication to inspiring students through aviation and aerospace experiences. Rob was joined by fellow educators and Award Leader, Trent Durocher, who was recently recognized with his pin during His Royal Highness, The Duke of Edinburgh’s visit in Toronto this past July. Thank you to Scott McFadzean for creating this special moment to acknowledge the work of Award Leaders and teachers who are supporting students achieve their goals.

One Grade 12 student shared, “I’ve never seen a plane up close before, let alone been able to go inside one. This is so awesome. Thank you for bringing us here today.”

Thank you to the Airshow London team Holly Doty, CMP, DE and Gerry Vanderhoek A.A.E. for creating a supportive, collaborative space for students and teachers to connect, learn, and dream big.

GECDSB students and teachers joined Laura Briscoe for lunch at the historic 427 Wing London, where she serves as a volunteer advisor, to meet the veterans and Gold Award achievers. The building opened in 1940, the 427 Wing Royal Canadian Air Force Association is a living piece of aviation history and continues to be a place of learning, mentorship, and community.

From the Airshow, to the YXU airport, to the 427 Wing, each experience reflected the core values of the Award: developing skills, serving the community, connecting across generations, and building leadership and resilience. These moments remind us that when education, industry, and community come together, we support young people to discover their purpose and potential.

We look forward to following their journey in achieving Bronze this school year. Thank you again to the teachers, GECDSB, volunteers, Airshow vendors, pilots, and the Airport team.

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