AVIATION CAREER DAY 2026
Saturday October 17, 2026

The goal of the Aviation Career Day is to educate, inspire and empower aspiring aviation professionals, and give them the tools and framework to become a successful part of the wonderful world of aviation.

The format of Career Day focuses on pairing industry newcomers with working or retired pilots, mechanics, controllers, instructors and other aviation professionals. The up-and-coming individuals get one on one time with the mentors to ask questions, get advice and learn from people who have been in their shoes and have been able to navigate the sometimes complex world of the aviation industry.

Additionally, speakers presented on topics from training and education, airline careers, unique jobs and career paths in the industry, and aviation safety. There will be vendors and mentors staffing tables in a career-fair style that allowed attendees to learn even more about the industry during breaks and between speakers.

Speakers for 2026 include Stephen K Robinson an astronaut on four space missions: STS-114, STS-130, STS-95, STS-85. Major Anthony "Judge" Tisdale a fighter pilot in the Air National Guard who has flown the F-15 and A-10. Emmie Smith from Cirrus Aircraft and Juan Browne, creator of the popular "Blancolirio" YouTube Channel. Mentors and exhibitors will be comprised of representatives from Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Guard, Air National Guard, California Highway Patrol Pilots, Metro Fire Sacramento, CALFIRE, Placer County Sheriff Pilots, and Alaska Bush flying. Faculty from the Sacramento City College A&P program and William Jessup University aviation programs were also present.

Attendees from past Career Day events have achieved jobs at Regional and Major Airlines, Corporate Flight Departments and CFI Flight Instructor positions at airports throughout the country.