Patoka Valley Aviation students tour UPS Worldport Facility

Aviation students from all four Dubois County school corporations, Heritage Hills High School and Perry Central High School, were recently given a first-hand introduction to the aviation industry during a tour of the UPS facility in Louisville.

The 14 students enrolled in the Patoka Valley Career & Technical Education Cooperative (PVCTEC) Aviation Program were accompanied by program coordinator/teacher Dustin Betz and Huntingburg Airport Manager Travis McQueen as they learned about the UPS Worldport Aviation facilities in Louisville.

During the tour, students were exposed to various facets of UPS’s aviation operations, including the impressive UPS Worldport facility.

Among the highlights of the visit was the opportunity for students to engage in hands-on activities, such as flying a Class D simulator for a Boeing 757. This immersive experience allowed them to gain firsthand knowledge of the complexities and responsibilities involved in piloting an aircraft.

Students also experienced the scale of UPS’s operations, such as the staggering statistic that UPS utilizes 6 million gallons of fuel in three days during the rush season. This fact underscored the magnitude and importance of UPS’s role in global logistics, said the organizers.

Chief Pilot Dan Spurlock addressed the students, providing encouragement and invaluable advice. One notable piece of guidance was the suggestion to consider pursuing an undergraduate degree as a backup to Aviation—a perspective that challenges conventional wisdom and encourages
students to explore alternative paths to achieving their career goals.

Additionally, students were introduced to the opportunities available through Ameriflight, particularly aimed at juniors and seniors in college. This insight into potential career pathways further broadened their understanding of the diverse options within the aviation industry.

Students also learned about the prospect of free college education through UPS’s program for employees in Kentucky. Learning about this benefit motivated many aspiring aviation professionals—one student even stated she now knew what she wanted to do for a career.

Overall, the visit to the UPS Worldport Aviation facilities proved to be a transformative experience for the students, offering them a glimpse into the dynamic and multifaceted world of aviation. Their enthusiasm and newfound knowledge serve as a testament to the program’s success in nurturing the next generation of aviation professionals.

Special thanks to UPS 747 pilots Reid Teaford and Scott Knerr, whose invaluable presence and firsthand knowledge enriched the students’ experience.