Aerium Strengthens Leadership to Propel Aviation Education and Workforce Development in Pennsylvania
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Johnstown, December 10th, 2024 - Aerium is thrilled to announce two dynamic appointments that will accelerate its mission to expand Pennsylvania's leadership in bringing next-generation advanced air mobility, drone, and crewed aircraft technologies to market and developing the highly-trained workforce that will build, fly, and maintain them. After an extensive search, Aerium has brought two exceptional leaders into its fold—Glenn Ponas as Director of Educational Initiatives and Mike Artim as Curriculum Development Director. Together, they bring decades of experience and a shared passion for inspiring the next generation of aviation professionals.
Glenn Ponas: Innovator in Aviation Education
Glenn Ponas joins Aerium with an unparalleled legacy in aviation and education. Over his three-decade career with Pittsburgh Public Schools, Glenn served as a teacher, administrator, and curriculum development specialist. In 2002 he founded the aviation program at the Pittsburgh Gifted Center introducing over 3,000 students to aviation, organizing hundreds of Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Young Eagles flights, and inspiring many to become FAA-certificated pilots.
Most recently, Glenn led the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Foundation's High School Aviation STEM Curriculum expansion as its director of High School Outreach. Under his leadership, the program grew from 160 schools and 6,000 students in 2020 to 1,430 schools and 29,600 students across 48 states by 2024. Glenn is also an FAA-certificated private pilot and remote pilot, and was a co-founder of Frameworks Information Technology, Inc., a Pittsbugh-based data visualization and GIS analysis company. He was also a data systems consultant to the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the United States Department of Education.
“Aerium is committed to transforming how we prepare students for the aviation careers of tomorrow. Glenn Ponas brings the vision, expertise, and proven success we need to make that transformation a reality,” said Dr. Larry Nulton, Chairman of Aerium. “His achievements in strategic partnership formation, curriculum development, and student engagement will empower Aerium to set a new standard for aviation education.”
Mike Artim: Bridging Education and Workforce Development
Aerium also welcomes Mike Artim, whose leadership in education and workforce development will be instrumental in addressing the “aviation curriculum conduit void.” With a deep understanding of educational pathways and industry demands, Mike will ensure curricula are better aligned to equip students with the practical skills needed for success in aviation, aerospace, and related fields.
As Curriculum Development Director, Mike will focus on forging connections between secondary institutions and postsecondary programs, enabling smooth transitions for students and providing resources for educators. His work will enhance Aerium’s ability to drive innovation in aviation education across Pennsylvania and beyond, ensuring students are prepared to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving industry.
“Mike Artim brings a strategic mindset and a deep passion for workforce development,” said Dr. Larry Nulton. “His expertise will be pivotal in bridging the gap between education and industry, ensuring that students not only dream about aviation careers but are fully equipped to achieve them.”
Driving Aerium’s Mission Forward
With Glenn Ponas and Mike Artim at the helm of its educational initiatives, Aerium is poised to redefine aviation education within the Commonwealth. By fostering collaboration, aligning curricula with industry needs, and inspiring a passion for aviation in young minds, Aerium continues to lead the charge in preparing future generations for rewarding careers in aviation and aerospace.
Matt Crocco
About Aerium:
Aerium is a philanthropic 501(c)(3) organization established to be a catalyst for change in the aviation sector, focusing on education, workforce development, and creating career opportunities for students in Pennsylvania.