he Jackson Municipal Airport Authority (JMAA) is proud to announce the successful completion of the 4th annual JMAA Education and Training Academy in partnership with Jackson Public Schools (JPS), and Jackson State University (JSU). The JET-A Class of 2023 celebrated their graduation on Friday, June 16th, at Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (JAN) with an inspiring ceremony honoring their accomplishments throughout the week-long program.
The JET-A Aviation Academy, a collaborative effort between JMAA, JPS, and JSU, expanded its reach by including JROTC students from Madison Central High School, Raymond and Terry High Schools with the aim to introduce them to the exciting world of aviation, igniting their passion for the industry, and provide them with valuable insights and experiences to shape their future career paths. This year’s program was a tremendous success, with students participating in a variety of engaging activities and gaining hands-on exposure to various aspects of aviation.
During the graduation ceremony, students were commended for their dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence throughout the program. JMAA Chief Executive Officer, Rosa M. Beckett, expressed her pride and appreciation, stating, “You are the future! You are the ones who will take our industry to another level…a level that perhaps you may not have imagined before this week…but make no mistake, all of us here believe in you, or we would not be here. You are our future! You are the future of aviation!”
John Means, Jr., JMAA Chief Operations Officer, also extended his congratulations to the graduating class, saying, “The JET-A Class of 2023 has shown exceptional promise, and we are thrilled to have been a part of their aviation journey. As they move forward, we encourage them to continue pursuing their dreams, pushing boundaries, and reaching for the stars.”
Superintendent of Jackson Public Schools, Errick L. Greene, expressed gratitude to the JMAA and its partners, stating, “I’m excited that you’ve had this exposure. Whether you decide to go into the field of aviation or not, something tells me you will remember this experience for the rest of your lives. Use it for fuel for whatever you choose to do.”
The highlight of the graduation ceremony was the passionate keynote speech delivered by Brigadier General Robert Crear. His words resonated deeply with the students, igniting their motivation and inspiring them to strive for greatness in their future endeavors. “Commit yourself to excellence. Make sure that whatever you do, you do it to the best of your ability. Whatever you’re required to do, do it, and then some.”
As parents, family, and friends looked on with pride, the students were presented with certificates of completion, JET-A gold medals, and were pinned, all to symbolize their outstanding achievements throughout the week. The ceremony was followed by a reception, providing an opportunity for attendees to celebrate the accomplishments of the JET-A Class of 2023.
JMAA extends its heartfelt congratulations to the JET-A Class of 2023 for their remarkable achievements and wishes them success as they embark on their future endeavors. The JET-A Aviation Academy remains committed to fostering the next generation of aviation leaders and continuing to inspire young minds in the aviation field.
For more information about the JET-A Aviation Academy and future programs, please contact LSherie Dean at 601.715.6918 or LDean@jmaa.com.
####
ABOUT JMAA
The Jackson Municipal Airport Authority (JMAA) operates two airports: Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (JAN) and Hawkins Field Airport (HKS). JAN is the busiest airport in Mississippi, situated in the Central part of the state and serving the Capital region of Jackson with over 3,000 acres of property. JAN has service to several of the world’s busiest global hubs and is home to the Mississippi Air National Guard 172nd Airlift Wing. HKS is a general aviation airport and is home to the Mississippi Army National Guard 185th Aviation Brigade.