Learn How to Get Started at a DreamLaunch Event Near You
What People Are Saying
About Jamail Larkins & DreamLaunch
Jamail Larkins has reached nearly 68,000 students through the DreamLaunch tour since its inception in 2004, bringing energy, relatability and a clear roadmap for turning goals into reality.
Here’s what audiences have shared after attending a DreamLaunch event:
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The DreamLaunch presentation was an out-of-the-park "Home Run," Jamail's discussions with our faculty and students were inspiring and informative. He gave our students "golden nuggets" of wisdom and his passion for aviation excellence is infectious, and energized all. Students are still abuzz about his presentation.
Orestes Goodman, Chairman, Aviation Department, Hampton University (Tour Host)
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Jamail was absolutely fantastic. He's polished yet passionate delivery along with exciting videos held young people riveted during his talk. Not only did he show our young people a world that they never knew existed, he also showed them that they could be part of that world.
Ira Weissman & Monsignor Michael T. Mannion, Director of Community Relations, Diocese of Camden; Chaplain NJ State Police (Tour Hosts)
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Involving the DreamLaunch Tour during MTSU's Career Exposition no doubt enhanced the student experience beyond our imagination. Because of the DreamLaunch Tour, our career expo was an overwhelming success and helped to positively influence the next generation of aviation professionals to consider many career opportunities
Dr. Chaminda Prelis, Chair, Department of Aerospace, Middle Tennessee State University (Tour Host)
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Jamail was marvelous! The students were really impressed. He wowed ‘em all, including me.
Jan Gottfredsen, Lockheed Martin (Tour Host)
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I had the pleasure of attending Jamail’s talk this past weekend and I must say that I am extremely moved, motivated, inspired, and have had an AMAZING upgrade in my attitude regarding my future in the aerospace industry. He’s given me the confidence to do my best to accomplish my dreams and they don’t seem that far away when you listen to what he accomplished.
Logan, Aviation Student
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Jamail is a phenomenal presenter! He was incredibly engaging, connected effortlessly with the audience, and brought an infectious energy to the room. It's clear he has a deep passion for helping aviators achieve their dreams. The attendees absolutely loved him. It was a truly inspiring experience all around!
Tiffany Felton, President, EAA Chapter 1
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At the Massachusetts Airport Management Association Conference, Jamail Larkins delivered an outstanding keynote addressing airports as the gateway to aviation careers. His deep knowledge of the aviation industry with in-demand jobs such as mechanics, engineers, airport operations, pilots, and air traffic controllers, was matched by an engaging presentation style. Jamail clearly articulated the opportunities for both new talent and seasoned professionals with genuine inspiration. He connected industry trends with real world aviation career pathways. I recommend Jamail Larkins for any event.
Andy Widor, President, Massachusetts Airport Management Association
DreamLaunch Tour
Where Will Your Aviation Dreams
Take You?
Meet AviationStart Founder Jamail Larkins and other industry professionals during a stop on the DreamLaunch Tour.
Learn how to kick off your career path, join aviation programs, and meet other young people like you who aspire to careers in aviation.
The events are free to attend.
Augusta - DreamLaunch
The Aviation Youth Symposium dynamic aviation outreach event designed to inspire the next generation of leaders through hands-on exposure to flight, education, and career opportunities. The event will take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Augusta Regional Airport (Bush Field) FBO.
Youth participants will experience exciting discovery flights in private aircraft, interactive aviation and STEAM career workshops, mentorship panels, and engaging STEM activities. In addition to introducing students to careers such as pilots, aircraft mechanics, air traffic control, engineering, and airport operations, any attendees will be connected to valuable scholarship opportunities and resources through AviationStart—the nation’s leading platform for aviation scholarships and career guidance. The day will also include lunch, entertainment, community vendors, raffles, swag bags, and certificates for all participants.
Dallas - DreamLaunch Presented By The Embraer Foundation
Join us on March 7th at the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) National Headquarters in Dallas, TX for an exciting DreamLaunch aviation career event proudly presented by Embraer Foundation. This immersive experience will give students, parents, and aspiring aviation professionals an up-close look at the world of aviation—featuring exotic aircraft displays, hands-on career workshops, and direct engagement with industry leaders and employers from organizations such as DFW International Airport, Embraer, and the FAA. Attendees will learn how to get started in flight training, explore careers as pilots, mechanics, air traffic controllers, and aviation professionals, and discover how to access thousands of dollars in aviation scholarships and financial resources through AviationStart. Whether you’re just beginning to explore aviation or ready to take the next step toward your dream career, this event will connect you with the tools, mentors, and opportunities to help launch your future.
This DreamLaunch Event is produced in collaboration with the Commemorative Air Force- Please register to attend this free enter presented by the Embraer Foundation at DreamLaunch Dallas!
North Dakota Aviation Association Annual Conference
The North Dakota Aviation Association Annual Conference will take place on March 10th, 2026 in Minot, North Dakota, bringing together aviation professionals, educators, airport leaders, businesses, and community partners from across the state. This year’s conference will highlight key issues shaping the future of aviation, including workforce development, industry growth, airport operations, and opportunities to inspire the next generation of aviation talent. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with peers, share best practices, and explore new ideas and resources that support aviation across North Dakota.
The conference will feature engaging sessions, networking opportunities, and industry updates, culminating with a keynote address delivered by aviation entrepreneur and FAA Ambassador Jamail Larkins, who will share insights on career pathways, scholarships, and innovative approaches to building a stronger aviation workforce.
For More Information visit: 2026 North Dakota Aviation Association Conference
University of North Dakota - DreamLaunch
The DreamLaunch Tour is coming to the University of North Dakota (UND) for a special event hosted by the OBAP (Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals) UND Campus Chapter, designed to inspire and prepare students for careers across the aviation industry.
Middle Tennessee State University - DreamLaunch
The DreamLaunch Tour will be opening the 2026 Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) Aviation Career Expo! This event will bring together students, educators, and industry leaders for one of the region’s premier aviation networking and career development events. Designed to connect aspiring aviation professionals with real-world opportunities, the expo features employer exhibits, career resources, and direct engagement with airlines, maintenance organizations, corporate aviation operators, and other aviation employers.
For more information visit the 2026 MTSU Career Expo
Kansas DOT Aviation Career Expo
The DreamLaunch Tour is coming to Liberal, Kansas for a special in-person aviation outreach event hosted at the Mid-America Air Museum, in partnership with the Kansas Department of Transportation Division of Aviation.
Exact details to be announced shortly.
Sun-n-Fun Aerospace Expo
DreamLaunch is headed to SUN ’n FUN Aerospace Expo to connect aspiring aviation professionals with real-world career opportunities at one of the world’s largest aviation events. Throughout the fly-in, DreamLaunch will engage students and attendees with inspiring presentations and hands-on guidance on how to get started in aviation careers such as pilots, aircraft mechanics, air traffic control, airport operations, engineering, and more. In addition, AviationStart will have interactive stations across SUN ’n FUN, where visitors can explore scholarship opportunities, career pathways, and training resources on-site.
For more information visit: Sun-n-Fun Aerospace Expo
Grand Rapids, MI - DreamLaunch
The DreamLaunch Tour is coming to Grand Rapids, Michigan on April 24th, bringing aviation career inspiration and opportunity to students across the region. During the visit, DreamLaunch will engage with several local schools to introduce young people to the exciting world of aviation and aerospace. The anchor event of the day will take place at the West Michigan Aviation Academy, where students will participate in an interactive program focused on real-world aviation career pathways, including pilots, aircraft mechanics, air traffic controllers, airport operations, engineering, and more.
Exact details to be announced shortly.
The National Intercollegiate Flying Association (NIFA) SAFECON
The National Intercollegiate Flying Association (NIFA) SAFECON 2026 will be hosted at the Quad Cities International Airport (KMLI). The Safety and Flight Evaluation Conference (SAFECON) brings the best of the best in collegiate aviation to the national stage, where more than 500 aviators from 30 colleges and universities will compete in ground knowledge, simulator, and flight events while vying for achievement, safety, and scholarship-based awards. Throughout the week, participants will engage with aviation industry partners through career booths, seminars, and sponsored networking events. Teams earn invitations to the national competition through one of nine regional SAFECON events held across the country each fall.
As part of this year’s program, DreamLaunch will deliver a special presentation to SAFECON attendees, providing inspiration and practical guidance on aviation career pathways, scholarship opportunities, and workforce development resources through AviationStart. The session will help competitors and students translate their collegiate aviation experience into real-world opportunities and next steps in their professional journeys.
For more information on SAFECON please read this feature by General Aviation News- NCAA of Aviation
2026 AeroSummit Conference
AeroSummit 2026 is the premier national summit for the flight training community, bringing together flight schools, CFIs, students, suppliers, and aviation professionals for three days of education, insight, and connection. Taking place May 20–22, 2026 at the JW Marriott Turnberry in Miami, Florida, the summit offers keynote presentations, engaging panels, exhibit showcases, networking opportunities, and practical content designed to address the challenges and opportunities facing aviation education and workforce development.
For more information visit 2026 AeroSummit
EAA AirVenture
EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is the world’s largest aviation celebration, bringing together hundreds of thousands of aviation enthusiasts, students, and professionals each summer in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Known as “The World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration,” AirVenture features breathtaking airshows, aircraft of every size and era, hands-on workshops, career forums, and unmatched opportunities to explore the aviation industry up close.
Exact event schedule during AirVenture will be announced closer to the event.
For more information visit EAA AirVenture
Minot, ND - DreamLaunch Presented By the NDAC
The North Dakota Aeronautics Commission (NDAC) is creating a statewide Aviation Career Day this October to inspire and prepare students for the exciting opportunities available across the aviation industry. Designed to introduce young people to real-world aviation pathways, the event will connect students with industry professionals, training programs, and hands-on career exploration in fields such as pilots, aircraft maintenance, air traffic control, airport operations, engineering, and more. While full event details will be released closer to the date, the program will focus on helping North Dakota students discover how to turn their interests into aviation careers and understand the steps needed to get started. The day will feature a keynote presentation by DreamLaunch, bringing motivation, practical guidance, and resources to help students access scholarships, mentorship, and career opportunities that can launch their future in aviation.
Exact Event Details will be announced closer to October.
Seattle, WA - DreamLaunch
The DreamLaunch Tour is headed to Seattle, Washington in partnership with the Museum of Flight for an exciting series of aviation career outreach events this October. During the visit, DreamLaunch will engage with students at local schools to introduce them to real-world opportunities in aviation and aerospace, from pilots and aircraft mechanics to engineering, air traffic control, and airport operations. The tour will also include a special open-to-the-public community event, giving families, educators, and aspiring aviation professionals the chance to learn about career pathways, training options, and how to access scholarships and resources through AviationStart.
Exact event locations and details will be announced closer to October.
NBAA-BACE
The NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) is one of the world’s most important gatherings for the aviation industry, bringing together thousands of professionals, companies, and innovators from across business aviation. Each year, the convention showcases cutting-edge aircraft, technology, and services while providing unmatched opportunities for education, networking, and career development. Attendees experience dynamic keynote sessions, industry exhibits, aircraft displays, and specialized programming designed to support the future of aviation. As part of this year’s event, AviationStart will be an integral component of the NBAA Career Zone, helping students and aspiring aviation professionals explore career pathways, discover scholarship opportunities, and connect directly with employers and training organizations.
For more information visit: 2026 NBAA-BACE
Hagerstown, MD- DreamLaunch
The Aviation Education & Career Expo in Hagerstown, MD is one of the nation’s premier aviation career events, bringing together students, educators, and industry leaders for an inspiring day dedicated to opportunity and workforce development. Since its founding, the Expo has awarded more than $1.7 million in aviation scholarships, with approximately $180,000 in scholarships and training awards presented annually—making it a must-attend event for anyone pursuing a future in aviation. This year, DreamLaunch will be delivering the keynote presentation, helping students discover real-world pathways into careers as pilots, aircraft mechanics, air traffic controllers, airport professionals, and more. Attendees will engage with aviation employers, training programs, and hands-on exhibits while learning how to access scholarships and resources to make their aviation goals achievable. With life-changing opportunities, industry connections, and direct access to funding, the Paragon Aviation Education & Career Expo continues to be one of the most impactful aviation career events in the country.
To register to attend this free event visit: Aviation Education & Career Expo
Florida International Airshow
The Florida International Airshow in Punta Gorda is one of Southwest Florida’s premier aviation events, featuring world-class aerial performances, impressive aircraft displays, and family-friendly activities that celebrate the excitement and innovation of flight. Each year, the airshow brings together aviation enthusiasts, industry professionals, and the local community for an unforgettable weekend of inspiration and entertainment. In addition to the incredible flying displays, DreamLaunch will be part of this year’s event, visiting local schools throughout the week to introduce students to aviation career opportunities and pathways. During the airshow, DreamLaunch will also be engaging with aspiring aviation professionals at the Education Innovation Pavilion, helping attendees explore careers such as pilots, aircraft mechanics, air traffic controllers, engineers, and more, while sharing information on scholarships and resources available through AviationStart. Together, the Florida International Airshow and DreamLaunch will help turn excitement for aviation into real opportunities for the next generation.
For more information visit: Florida International Airshow
Orlando - DreamLaunch
Aerospace & Aviation Day Presented by the Orlando-Sanford International Airport
Join us alongside 5,000+ future aviation professionals at Orlando Sanford International Airport for free flights, hands-on experiences, and real answers about aviation careers. Open to the public!
Learn how to unlock scholarships, connect with employers, and discover exactly what it takes to turn aviation dreams into reality.
Your future in aviation can start now!! Check out Aerospace & Aviation Day 2026 for more information!
Greensboro, NC | Presented By Triad Aviation Academy
Helena, MT | Glacier Flight Training
San Diego, CA | Presented By San Diego International Airport
San Diego, CA | San Diego International Airport
Dallas, TX | Presented By Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport
Dallas, TX | Presented By Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport
Punta Gorda, FL | Presented By Florida International Airshow
Punta Gorda, FL | Florida International Airshow
Hyannis, MA | Presented By Massachusetts Airport Management Association
Hyannis, MA | Massachusetts Airport Management Association
Las Vegas, NV | Presented By National Business Aviation Association
Las Vegas, NV | National Business Aviation Association
Sacramento, CA | Presented By California Capital Airshow
Sacramento, CA | California Capital Airshow
Oshkosh, WI | EAA AirVenture Airshow
Orlando, Florida | Greater Orlando Aviation Authority
Tampa, Florida | Florida Aviation Business Association
Tampa, Florida | Florida Aviation Business Association
Dallas, TX | Commemorative Air Force Warbirds Weekend
Experience Warbird Weekend on May 10 and 11, 2025 (10 a.m. - 4 p.m.) at the Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center (NAEC) in Dallas, TX.
This event will take you back in time to see vintage aircraft and vehicles up close. Some legendary aircraft on display include the B-29 FIFI, B-24 Diamond Lil, A-26 Invader Night Mission, F6F Hellcat Minsi III, AT-6 Nella, P-51 Gunfighter, Pt-13 Stearman and C-45 Bucket of Bolts. These incredible aircraft are ready to be admired by aviation enthusiasts of all ages.
2026 Tentative DreamLaunch Cities
In addition to the confirmed cities listed above, DreamLaunch will be adding the following cities to the tour schedule soon:
Miami, FL
Raleigh, NC
Los Angeles, CA
Melbourne, FL
Sacramento, CA
If you would like the Aviation Industry’s Largest Workforce Development Tour to visit your city, please let us know:
Tampa, FL
Phoenix, AZ
Chicago, IL
Atlanta, GA
San Diego, CA