Aerospace Education Council: January 2026 Update

Happy 2026! Below is a rundown of things related to AFA Education to be aware of as we continue into the new year:

Teacher of the Year

It’s time to start looking for that exceptional teacher you want to recognize. Be sure to consider them not only at the chapter level, but also for state and potential national level recognition. Everything you need to know is in the FOG and on the AFA website. Remember, each level requires a separate application because requirements become more detailed as the level increases.

Each state has its own requirements regarding when applications are due to the state, but both chapter and state applications are due to national by April 30. National Teacher of the Year applications are due on June 30. Learn more and nominate a teacher here.

Aerospace Education Awards

AFA has two major awards for Education: The Buckwalter Distinguished Sustained Education Award (DSEA), and the Chair’s Award for Education Achievement (CSEA). The DSEA is presented to an individual AFA member whose AFA record overwhelmingly demonstrates distinguished sustained service in support of the educational mission of the Association over a period of years. The CSEA is for special or sustained achievement in support of the AFA education mission statements; namely, advocate for STEM Education and/or support and promote aerospace education. This award is designed to recognize international, federal, state or local government; industry; community partner; and scholarly enterprise, or any private or public business. This award can be awarded to an individual(s) or an entity or entities within the categories designated. 

Grants

Civil Air Patrol and AFJROTC both have grants available. AFJROTC grants are issued twice annually, and the deadline for the spring application is February 10. CAP grants are also issued twice annually, and next grants will be issued on June 30. Apply here.

Scholarships

We have a variety of academic and flight scholarships available for a variety of individuals. The application deadline is April 30 each year, so now is the time to start getting the word out through your chapters and base education offices. Apply here.

Pitsenbarger Awards

These awards are coming up again for spring semester graduates of CCAF. We have the new Pitsenbarger Full Measure Award (FMA) that will be presented for the first time this year at the Air, Space and Cyberspace Conference in September. Letters are going out soon to all Pitsenbarger winners from the past two years. Your spring graduates will be at a point to be able to apply for the 2027 FMA. Be sure to let them know about this award and the requirements, one of which is being involved in AFA at the chapter or state level. If you let your winners know about that requirement, they will have the opportunity to ensure that they are qualified. Apply here.

Teacher STEM Camps

This year we will have four weekend long sessions that will take place in Rome, N.Y.; Arlington, Va.; Maxwell AFB, Ala.; and Davis-Monthan AFB, Ariz. More information will be available soon on who can attend and how to get involved. 

Wishing everyone a great 2026!

Gary Copsey
Vice Chair – Education