San Francisco International Airport Inspires the Next Generation of Aviation Talent
“We want young people to see themselves here—not just as travelers, but as future professionals contributing to a world-class airport.”
Mike Nakornkhet, Director of the San Francisco Airport, receives SFO’s Airport Workforce Development Accreditation from ACI-NA President and CEO Kevin Burke.
At San Francisco International Airport (SFO), workforce development starts early—and inclusively. As a Level 1 accredited participant in the Airport Workforce Development Accreditation program, SFO is creating powerful pathways into aviation careers for students from high school through college.
Through its AIM High program, SFO introduces local high school students to the aviation industry with a blend of virtual learning and on-site experiences. This four-part series includes engaging workshops, behind-the-scenes tours, and a graduation ceremony that celebrates student achievement. The program is free and thoughtfully designed for students who are eager to learn more about SFO’s many career opportunities—from aviation operations to hospitality and beyond.
SFO also partners with local Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs to connect students’ classroom learning to real-world applications and exposure. Students from across the region participate in curated tours aligned with their fields of study. Highlights include:
Hospitality & Tourism students touring the Grand Hyatt Hotel at SFO
Skilled Trades students visiting SFO’s Central Plant, Water Treatment Plant, Sign Shop, and Fleet Services
Digital Arts students exploring the award-winning, American Alliance of Museums (AMA) accredited SFO Museum
By sparking curiosity, fostering mentorship, and removing barriers to opportunity, SFO is actively investing in tomorrow’s aviation workforce—one student at a time.