Kelowna, BC This summer, Okanagan College’s Camp OC Flight Academy gave youth from across BC an unforgettable introduction to the world of aviation – and the KF Centre for Excellence was proud to partner in bringing this unique program to life.
Designed for students entering Grades 7-9 and 10-12, the week-long program immersed participants in diverse aviation careers, from aircraft maintenance and drone technology to air traffic control, aviation communications, and piloting. Students spent part of the week at Okanagan College’s Kelowna campus before moving to the KF Centre for Excellence, located next to the Kelowna International Airport, for hands-on experiences including flight simulators, airport tours, and the highlight of the week – joining experienced pilots for discovery flights over the Okanagan.
“Camp OC gives young learners the chance to explore their passions in a place that’s both inspiring and real – our college campuses,” said Samantha Lenci, Provost and Vice President, Academic with Okanagan College. “Whether they’re stepping into a science lab, a trades shop, or, in this case, a Boeing 737 simulator, they’re guided by skilled instructors who bring hands-on expertise from their fields. It’s more than a week of fun; it’s an opportunity to spark curiosity, build confidence, and show youth that their big dreams can start right here at Okanagan College.”
The camp drew participants from as far away as Vancouver, including Edty Boun’s daughter:
“We travelled from Vancouver for the Flight Academy Camp OC camp because it was such a perfect fit for our daughter’s interests — and it exceeded our expectations,” shared Edty Boun. “She’s tried many camps over the summer, but this was by far her favourite. From the friendly, supportive pilot who gave her generous flight time, to the rare behind-the-scenes access at Kelowna International Airport, every moment was thrilling and empowering. We’ll be watching for future opportunities with this program and can’t wait to return to the Okanagan.”
The KF Centre for Excellence extends its gratitude to the many partners who made the Flight Academy possible:
- Okanagan College – program leadership, instruction, and camp coordination
- Kelowna Flying Club – generously providing flight experiences and mentorship
- KF Aerospace – technical expertise, behind-the-scenes tour and simulator operations
- Kelowna International Airport – behind-the-scenes tours of operations
- Our incredible instructors, volunteers, tour guides, and staff whose enthusiasm and expertise brought aviation to life for these students.
“This inaugural Flight Academy is an important milestone for us,” said Chris Lapointe, Executive Director of KF Centre for Excellence. “It marks the start of a new Youth Engagement initiative that is under development geared to create more opportunities for students to connect with aviation, aerospace, and innovation in ways that inspire and empower.”
About Okanagan College
Okanagan College has been inspiring learners and transforming communities for over 60 years with programs in trades, science and technology, health, business arts and more. Okanagan College has campuses in Penticton, Kelowna, Vernon and Salmon Arm and is committed to supporting the workforce of the future.
About KF Centre for Excellence
Located at Kelowna International Airport, the KF Centre for Excellence celebrates aviation history, fosters innovation, and inspires future generations through interactive exhibits, educational programming, and community engagement.
