Epps Aviation x Julius Alexander Feature

JULIUS ALEXANDER RECEIVES EPPS AVIATION AWARD

Epps Aviation was thrilled to award Julius Alexander for his achievements at Atlanta Aero Club's March meeting. Mr. Alexander has done (and continues to do) incredible work running the Aviation Career Enrichment Academy at Fulton County Airport. With an all-volunteer staff, the ACE Academy uses flight training to inspire young people and sharpen their academic skills, meanwhile encouraging them to stay in school and complete their education.

Since 1980, the ACE Academy has worked hard to address the lack of minorities in aerospace and aviation jobs. They are committed to introducing disadvantaged, at-risk, and minority youth to aviation opportunities, while also focusing on character building and leadership development. Although African- Americans represent the majority of current participants, the ACE Academy is open to young men and women from any and all backgrounds.

In addition to offering pilot flight training, the ACE Academy has opened up aerospace career exploration programs, providing exposure to other jobs in aviation through field trips, guest speakers, and hands-on experience. Throughout its more than 30 years of operation, the ACE Academy has helped an outstanding number of students be successful in their aviation job searches. Graduates have gone on to work as aerospace engineers, flight instructors, and military, corporate, and airline pilots.

Training teenagers to fly, in addition to the amazing influence of the ACE Academy, can all be credited to the lifetime vision and dedication of Mr. Alexander. As an active flight and ground instructor (with certifications in single and multi-engine airplanes), Mr. Alexander has logged more than 11,000 hours teaching primary, advanced, and instrument aircraft training to hundreds of pilots.

Our fixed-base operation was grateful for the opportunity to honor Julius Alexander with the 2016 Ben Epps Award. Stephen Gates, former ACE participant and Epps Aviation intern, was also present at the luncheon. Stephen celebrated with his mentor and continues to return his gratitude to Mr. Alexander by promoting the ACE program to youth groups and school classes. Way to go, Stephen!