Minnesota Aviation Career Education (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.

For over 30 years, more than 2000 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 ongoing 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 vision is 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.

We are currently seeking community partners who want to grow with us. Your donations and sponsorships help offer events, outreach, and scholarships to young adults with a bright future in aviation.