Middle Georgia State and Museum of Aviation Partner to Expand STEM Education and Community Outreach

Middle Georgia State University (MGA) and the Museum of Aviation Foundation have formalized a new partnership aimed at boosting educational outreach, community engagement, and innovation across the region.

Leaders from both organizations signed the agreement on June 30 at MGA’s Center for Middle Georgia Studies, located on the Macon Campus. Dr. David Jenks, MGA’s provost and senior vice president for Academic Affairs, and Dan Rhodes, president of the Museum of Aviation Foundation, were present for the signing.

The partnership focuses on improving access to STEM education and leveraging shared resources to support community growth. Joint efforts will include internship and volunteer opportunities, outreach initiatives, professional development for staff, and the use of educational materials and technology such as STEM kits.

“Partnering with the Museum of Aviation aligns perfectly with MGA’s mission to serve as a hub for innovation and educational opportunity,” said Dr. Jenks. “By working together to offer programs like the Robotics Educator Camp, we are not only strengthening STEM education for teachers and students but also building pathways to careers in high-demand fields.”

One example of the collaboration is the Educators STEM Camp, held June 16–17, which brought Macon-Bibb teachers and students together for hands-on robotics activities.

As part of the agreement, both institutions will share trained educators for camps and workshops and co-host events designed to benefit the region’s educational ecosystem.

The Museum of Aviation Foundation is a nonprofit organization that supports the Museum of Aviation in Warner Robins, which features more than 90 historic aircraft and exhibits. MGA’s Center for Middle Georgia Studies connects university faculty and staff with community partners to address regional issues.

Both organizations plan to announce additional programs in the coming months.