Inspire Future Leaders Aviation-inspired STEM learning and leadership programs that build confidence, teamwork, and real-world skills for students in Grades 5-12. Explore Programs Watch the pilot Session follow Us

REAL AVIATION
EXPERIENCE

Led by a retired airline captain with decades of real-world aviation experience.

STEM INTEGRATED
LEARNING

Engaging lessons that connect science, technology, engineering, and math.

LEADERSHIP
DEVELOPMENT

Building confidence, communication, teamwork, and decision-making skills.

HANDS-ON EXPERIENCES

Interactive activities, missions, and problem-solving challenges

CAREER
EXPLORATION

Inspiring the next generation of aviation and aerospace leaders.

SCHOOL
FOCUSED

Aligned with educational standards and school goals.

About Us

With more than 15,000 flight hours and a career as a professional airline captain, Tom Harrison Jr. brings decades of aviation experience, multiple aircraft type ratings, and leadership experience from one of the world's most demanding professions. He has dedicated his career to aviation, leadership, instruction, and helping others succeed.

His qualifications include Airline Transport Pilot (ATP), Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), Certified Flight Instructor–Instrument (CFII), Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI), Certified Ground Instructor, and FAA Gold Seal Instructor credentials.Today, Tom also continues to serve the aviation community as a contract pilot, flying private clients and their families with the same commitment to safety, professionalism, and personalized service that defined his airline career.

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(805) 732-6787

Our Programs

The Complimentary Pilot Session

During this one-hour class,

students are introduced to the exciting world of aviation while exploring how Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) work together during every flight.  Through engaging discussions, hands-on activities, and real-world aviation scenarios, students begin developing critical thinking, teamwork, communication, and leadership skills used by professional pilots every day.  Adventure Begins Here.

Aviation STEM Explorers Grades 5-6

During this six-week course, 

Every child dreams of adventure. The Paladin Aviation STEM Explorers program transforms that excitement into an unforgettable journey of discovery through aviation. Students don’t just learn about airplanes—they become explorers, solving challenges, making real-world decisions, working as a crew, and experiencing the wonder of flight through hands-on STEM activities. Along the way, they build confidence, leadership, teamwork, and critical thinking skills that will serve them for a lifetime. It’s where curiosity takes flight… and tomorrow’s leaders begin their journey.  The Sky Is Not the Limit—It’s Just the Beginning.

Aviation STEM Navigators Grades 7-8

During this six-week course,

Adventure is only the beginning—now it’s time to take the controls. The Paladin Aviation STEM Navigators program challenges students in Grades 7–8 to think like pilots, make sound decisions, and lead with confidence through realistic aviation missions and immersive STEM experiences. Students develop critical thinking, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills while applying real-world aviation concepts in exciting new ways. More than a STEM course, Navigators prepares students to make smart decisions, overcome challenges, and discover what they’re truly capable of. Every Flight Begins with a Decision.

Aviation STEM Aviators Grades 9-10

Program in Development 

Designed for Grades 9–10, the Paladin Aviation STEM Aviators program will challenge students to think critically, solve complex problems, and lead with confidence through advanced aviation missions and STEM experiences. Where Curiosity Takes Flight.

Aviation STEM Captains Grades 11-12

Program in Development

During this six-week course, Leadership is earned—not given. The Paladin Aviation STEM Captains program is the pinnacle of the Paladin Academy journey, where students in Grades 11–12 are challenged to think strategically, lead with confidence, and make sound decisions under pressure. Through advanced aviation missions and real-world STEM experiences, students develop the judgment, character, and leadership skills that colleges, employers, and the aviation industry value most.  Captains isn’t just the final course—it’s where tomorrow’s leaders are forged.  Inspiring the Next Generation of Explorers.

    Hands-On
    Learning Beyond The
    Classroom

    Our programs create memorable educational experiences that encourage students to think bigger, explore aviation, and develop future-ready skills.

    BRING PALADIN TO YOUR SCHOOL

    Why I Founded Paladin Aviation Academy

    For more than a quarter of a century and over 15,000 flight hours, aviation taught me lessons that extend far beyond the cockpit. Every successful flight depends on preparation, discipline, teamwork, communication, critical thinking, and the ability to make sound decisions.

    Over time, I realized these are the very same qualities that help young people succeed in school, careers, and life.

    • Real Aviation Exposure
    • STEM-Focused Learning
    • School Partnership Programs
    • HANDS-ON STUDENT EXPERIENCES
    • PROFESSIONAL AVIATION EXPERIENCE
    • Career Inspiration
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    What They Say

    James
    Tom Harrison Jr. is an outstanding instructor and mentor. His years of professional flying experience are evident in every lesson. He teaches with patience, confidence, and a genuine passion for aviation. I highly recommend PALADIN Aviation Services.
    Amanda
    I couldn’t have asked for a better instructor. Tom makes every training session engaging while emphasizing safety and professionalism. His real-world airline experience provides insights you simply can’t get from a textbook.
    Robert
    Training with Tom was one of the best decisions I’ve made in my aviation journey. He’s knowledgeable, approachable, and always willing to answer questions. His attention to detail has made me a safer and more confident pilot.
    Nicole
    Tom is incredibly professional and supportive. He adapts his teaching style to each student and ensures you understand every concept before moving on. I always left each lesson feeling more confident than before.
    Daniel
    PALADIN Aviation Services exceeded my expectations. Tom’s commitment to safety, excellence, and personalized instruction is unmatched. His extensive airline background brings a level of credibility that’s hard to find.
    Rachel
    Tom is a phenomenal instructor who truly cares about his students’ success. His calm demeanor, thorough explanations, and practical training approach made learning enjoyable and stress-free. I highly recommend him.
    Kevin
    From day one, Tom demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and exceptional aviation knowledge. He shares valuable real-life experiences that make every lesson practical and memorable. Five stars without hesitation.
    Olivia
    Learning from Tom has been an incredible experience. His dedication to building safe, skilled, and confident pilots is evident in everything he does. If you’re serious about aviation, PALADIN Aviation Services is the place to go.

      Our Resources

      PARENT GUIDE

      Everything families need to know about the Paladin Aviation Academy experience, including our programs, educational approach, student experience, safety, and frequently asked questions.

      VIEW PARENT GUIDE

      PROGRAM OVERVIEW

      Discover how Paladin Aviation Academy combines aviation, STEM education, leadership development, teamwork, and real-world decision-making in age-appropriate programs designed for today’s students.

      VIEW PROGRAM OVERVIEW

      COMPLIMENTARY PILOT SESSION

      Give students and school leaders an introduction to the Paladin experience through a complimentary 60-minute aviation STEM session featuring teamwork, decision-making, leadership, and hands-on learning.

      EXPLORE PILOT SESSION