Global Commercial and Energy Support Helicopter Leader, Leonardo, backs HeliStorm™ 2025, a new event concept centered around scale model radio-controlled helicopters to attract and develop the next generation of vertical lift recruits.
Denver and Philadelphia, USA 01 April 2025 — Leonardo, maker of the popular AgustaWestland helicopter line, announced its sponsorship of HeliStorm™ 2025, a first-of-its-kind workforce development event to be held on the front grounds of the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton, Ohio, from May 30-31, 2025. HeliStorm™ 2025 will introduce thousands of STEM, private, and public school students to the aviation industry at an event centered around more than 140 scale model radio-controlled helicopters flying and competing on the front grounds of the Air Force Museum. The nonprofit producing the event aims to use the wonder and complexity of model helicopter flight as an accessible and affordable on-ramp to vertical aviation well before students are ready to join the workforce.
"HeliStorm directly supports our goal to spread scientific culture in schools and to inspire the next generation of A&P's, techs and pilots," said Michael Bucari, Head of Marketing of Americas, for Leonardo Helicopters.
“Early recruiting in sports is commonplace and often begins before high school. The difference here is that recruiting younger students for careers in aviation leaves them with few enduring and readily accessible options to nurture their passion for the industry,” said Michael Kranitz, founder and CEO of HeliStorm, Inc. “Model helicopters give students a platform to develop problem-solving skills while learning about aerodynamics, propulsion, electronics, flight controls, fuel systems and more. This event illuminates a practical and achievable path into aviation and provides actual industry contacts for use when the time comes to enter the workforce or seek a technical education within the industry,” he added.
Leonardo has sponsored one of the two main flight areas and the EMS Flight Award. They will have staff on hand at HeliStorm™ 2025 to meet with students and educators. Attendance at the event is free. For more information, visit https://HeliStorm.org.
Contacts
Michael Kranitz,
CEO HeliStorm, Inc. 720-838-0700
HeliStorm.org
Tori Brown,
Strategic Communicator
Leonardo Helicopters
Tori.Brown@LeonardoCompany.us
