Habitat for Aviation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit expanding access to aviation while helping address the nationwide shortage of aviation mechanics. Through hands-on apprenticeship and mentorship, we create “see-to-believe” experiences that inspire people to step into aviation and provide real pathways into maintenance, avionics, and pilot training.

By building an ecosystem where belonging is designed in—not left to chance—we draw, support, and retain talented individuals from all backgrounds, including those historically marginalized in aerospace, strengthening the workforce and the culture that sustains it.

The name Habitat for Aviation is rooted in founder Beth White’s background in ecology, environmental studies, and later work in interest-based education at Big Picture Learning. Beth came to see habitats as living systems shaped by relationships, assets, challenges, and care. She chose the name because it reflects a core belief: every community holds people, gifts, and opportunities worth cultivating, and with the right support, learning ecosystems like this can take root anywhere.

Launched in October 2023, WOMEN BUILD PLANES is Habitat for Aviation’s flagship initiative and a “see-to-believe” experience: a multigenerational, all-female team of women and girls building a RANS S-21 Outbound aircraft together—a first of its kind in aviation history. Through hands-on work, mentorship, and shared leadership, we’re building more than a plane. We’re building a culture of belonging in aviation, one that welcomes and keeps the talent this industry needs.

Participation in all airplane builds and programs is completely free. Habitat for Aviation is fully supported by donations and grants—click here to contribute.

To help us connect you with the right opportunity, please email info@habitatforaviation.org and tell us a bit about your interests and availability.

Once completed, our RANS S-21 will serve as a powerful flying testament to women’s skill, leadership, and belonging in aviation. We will bring it to airshows and STEM events to champion women’s representation in aviation and related industries, and we will use it as a training aircraft for the women and girls who helped build it.

No. Habitat for Aviation is inclusive of all genders. While WOMEN BUILD PLANES creates a supportive learning environment specifically for women and female-identifying participants, Habitat also offers build opportunities open to everyone.

On the first Saturday of each month, Habitat for Aviation hosts an additional airplane build that welcomes participants of all genders and ages. Visit our Events Page to find our next Build Day.

Habitat for Aviation is based at Franklin County State Airport (KFSO) in Highgate, Vermont. While this is currently our primary location, we plan to expand with additional build projects and future sites nationwide.

No experience is required. Habitat for Aviation welcomes participants of all backgrounds and skill levels. Build days are designed for beginners and guided by experienced mentors. All that’s required is curiosity, a willingness to learn, and readiness to work as part of a team.

Habitat for Aviation helps participants explore aviation pathways and connect with flight training resources through mentorship, exposure, and hands-on experience. While we do not operate a flight school, we leverage a broad network of partners to help participants take next steps toward flight training.

Safety is foundational to everything we do. All build activities follow established aviation safety protocols and are overseen by experienced aviation professionals to ensure a safe, supportive learning environment.

Support for Habitat for Aviation can take many forms. You can make a financial contribution, donate tools or resources, fund scholarships that open doors for future aviators, volunteer your time, or share your professional expertise. Hosting or participating in a Lunch & Learn, mentoring, or simply spreading the word about our mission also plays an important role in helping Habitat for Aviation grow and broaden our reach.

Yes. Habitat for Aviation actively seeks partnerships with corporations, foundations, public agencies, and community organizations that share our vision for inclusive, hands-on, real world aviation pathways. Click here to connect with us.