Minnesota Aviation Career Education Camp

Minnesota Aviation Career Education Camp (MN ACE Camp) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to connecting students with the opportunity to explore a wide variety of aviation career paths and possibilities.

We are a 100% volunteer-operated 501(c)(3) nonprofit and 100% of all donations received from now until the end of the year will be allocated to scholarships offered in 2023.

We've grown with your help. Now we're giving back.

Over the last 30 years, more than 1,000 students have graduated from MN ACE Camp, many of whom are now industry leaders, professionals, counselors, volunteers, and sponsors. Thanks to their support and the support of our local aviation community, MN ACE Camp is giving back more than ever. 

MN ACE Camp is proud to announce The Elevate Award. A scholarship to aid aviation professionals at every stage in their careers. 

This scholarship may be used for anything that may help elevate your aviation career. In your application tell us about yourself, your goals, and the professional development opportunity you intend to pursue. All persons are encouraged to apply. Any person at any stage of their career in aviation is eligible. Learn More

Our Mission, Purpose & Vision.

Minnesota Aviation Career Education Camp (MN ACE Camp) was founded in 1991 by a group of industry professionals in partnership with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) to promote, educate and expose high school students to a wide variety of aviation careers. Over the last 30 years, more than 1000 students from all over the world have graduated from MN ACE Camp, many of whom are now industry leaders, professionals, counselors, and volunteers for our camp. 

Our summer program includes a variety of guided tours, guest speakers, hands-on activities, demonstrations, static displays, and the opportunity to pilot a single-engine aircraft, glider, helicopter, and full-motion airline simulator with an FAA Certified Flight Instructor.  The purpose of our program is to bridge the gap between classroom and career, helping students visualize themselves in different aviation and aerospace jobs.  Our staff members, camp counselors,  and mentors at MN ACE Camp are there to supervise, ensure the safety of the students, and teach the values of camaraderie, inclusiveness, accountability, and mutual respect in a team-building environment. As aviation evolves, so will our programming as we prepare our students for the changes in the industry.

On April 6, 2020, MN ACE Camp became an officially recognized 501(c)3 Non-Profit.  This non-profit status has allowed MN ACE Camp to provide significant financial assistance to students furthering their education in aviation.  In 2022, the Board of Directors established The Elevate Award, a continuing education scholarship to aid aviation professionals at every stage in their careers.  Our growth has supported our vision to inspire and support the next generation of aviation professionals along the many steps of their journey to help them realize and reach their dreams.

MN ACE Camp has become one of the most recognized non-profit aviation camps in the country thanks to the support of our local aviation community, donors, and countless volunteers.  Our mission stretches beyond the week of camp, and we seek community partners who want to grow with us and help us reach new audiences.  Your donations and sponsorships help offer events, outreach, and scholarships to young adults with a bright future in aviation.