Congressman Pat Ryan Dedicates New Aviation Classroom
Expanded Flight Program Prepares Newburgh Students for Careers in Aviation
Newburgh, NY – [May 9, 2026] – Congressman Pat Ryan joined students, faculty, and community leaders for the dedication of the newly renovated Steve Beck Aeronautical Science Center at San Miguel Academy.
The event was emceed by Mike Oates, President of the Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation, whose organization played a key role in funding a second STEMPilot flight simulator for the program.
“The new Steve Beck Aeronautical Science Center at San Miguel Academy is directly delivering on SMA’s powerful mission: breaking the cycle of poverty through education, mentorship, and long-term real-world support,” said Congressman Pat Ryan. “Innovative programs like this, with exceptional partners like Red Tail Flight Academy, show students how much they are capable of. Thank you to everyone – especially Mary Beck and Mike Oates – who has made this new chapter possible. This is the kind of exposure that can change a young person’s life, and it’s all happening here in the Hudson Valley!”
San Miguel Academy launched its aviation program in 2022 in response to growing workforce demands in the aviation industry. With two airports in Orange County and a mission centered on breaking the cycle of poverty for underserved youth in the City of Newburgh, the school embraced the opportunity to introduce students to aviation careers. Each San Miguel Academy middle school student participates in a 12-week aviation training program using two STEMPilot flight simulators. Instruction is led by Captain David Terwilliger alongside Captain Brian Tighe, both retired commercial pilots from American Airlines.
“The Steve Beck Aeronautical Science Center is not only visually engaging, but intentionally designed to support lessons in math, science, geography, and astronomy,” said Captain Terwilliger. “We have also created experiences that enrich literature and history instruction. Learning in such an immersive environment deepens student engagement and builds a strong foundation for future academic and career success.”
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for airline and commercial pilots is projected to grow 13 percent from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. San Miguel’s aviation program directly responds to this demand by integrating engineering, science, physics, and mathematics through hands-on flight simulation.
San Miguel Academy has also established partnerships with Red Tail Academy at Stewart International Airport, where several students have participated in the Tuskegee Airmen-sponsored pilot program, as well as SUNY Dutchess, which offers a strong aviation curriculum. Currently, multiple San Miguel students are exploring careers as pilots, air traffic controllers, and aviation mechanics.
“The Hudson Valley is home to some of the most promising aviation assets in the Northeast, including Stewart International Airport, but the future of this industry depends on the talent we cultivate today,” said Mike Oates, President & CEO of the Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation. “San Miguel Academy’s work with the young people of Newburgh exemplifies the forward-thinking workforce development our region needs. By introducing students to aviation careers early and giving them hands-on experience in a state-of-the-art learning environment, this program is opening doors that will benefit these students, their families, and our regional economy for decades to come. HVEDC is proud to have supported the second STEMPilot flight simulator, and we look forward to watching these students take flight.”
Through the generous support of Mary Beck, the Academy has created a dedicated aviation learning space designed to expand and sustain the program. In August, the school plans to acquire a third flight simulator approved by the FAA for formal pilot training.
About San Miguel Academy
San Miguel Academy of Newburgh is a year-round, STEM-based school serving low-opportunity families in Newburgh, NY. Its mission is to break the cycle of poverty through education by making a long-term commitment to students and their families. For more information, please visit newburghsanmiguel.org
