This award provides funding to the construction of a 13,000 sq. ft. Technology & Science Center at the Washington-Warren Airport Industrial Park. Inner Banks STEM Center (IBX STEM) will receive $800,000 for transferring its existing 6,000 sq. ft. facility to the City of Washington and will use those funds along with, along with Golden LEAF funding, to build the new larger facility. This larger facility will allow an expansion of the Aviation Academy launched in partnership with Beaufort County Community College to prepare high school students to take the FAA knowledge tests for the Private Pilot License or Part 107 UAV Commercial Drone License. In partnership with Beaufort County Schools, the Technology & Science Center will serve as a youth career pathways hub for aviation, boating, and renewable energy programs. The project anticipates that 79 students will complete at least one curriculum program annually and at least 45 students will earn at least one industry/third party certification or license. Golden LEAF funds would be used for materials and construction costs.
