OSHKOSH, Wis. — Many people who come to the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) AirVenture are longtime fans of aviation. However, the week-long event is also a chance to attract a new generation of flight lovers to the world of aviation.

One way the EAA works to attract young people to the aviation field is through the KidVenture area of the show. The area is filled with kid-friendly activities designed to be fun, but also to spark an interest in aviation. Nine year old Jack Larkins and his brother took part in the propeller-making activity at KidVenture and said it was a great opportunity to try something new.

“It's fun to learn all this cool stuff, make these cool propellers,” he said.

From making wooden propellers to state-of-the-art flying simulators, the show represents a chance to get kids interested in aviation. KidVenture organizer Dan Majaka says each activity has the power to inspire.

“It's like being a teacher,” Majaka said. “When the kids do a good job or come back and are working here and doing a great thing because of you. We see a little kid running around with a propeller in their hand or wing rib in their hand and they are all happy. It makes you feel good and worthwhile.”

The EAA also offers outreach programs that extend beyond the walls of AirVenture.

The organization holds Young Eagles flights, which are run by local chapters all over the country. Young Eagles offers the opportunity for young people to fly a free exploration flight with a pilot to learn about aviation.

To learn about Young Eagles flights in your area, you can visit their website. ​