Working with a Mentor

If you want a future as an engineer, designer, or fabricator this is the foundation of the process. Solidworks allows you to design 3D models of what you want, draw up prints and export the design in the proper format directly to the machines that make the parts.

"Dick showed me how to use the jig and all the tools like the band saw and how to build a rib. A rib is part of the wing of the airplane that makes it sturdy - it makes the structure of the wing. I built a whole airplane rib just like the ones on our real airplane."

"Work on our Wittman Legacy aircraft is continually progressive, always providing a project to work on, skills to develop, or area to discover."

"I've made a lot of parts here - we build special tools for other projects. Recently we've made a die for wall hanging brackets, a break press setup, and special tools for the fuselage tubing. With the kids, I've worked on learning how to G-code and code in a rectangle on the CNC mill.

"In the small engine area we take apart engines, not just to fix them, but to learn from them. We work on everything from snow blowers to weed wackers."

"With the laser we are using creativity to solve problems. For example, the laser bed wasn't working so we had to take apart the panel and re-level the bed  with Dave's help. We got it re-leveled so now it cuts properly. We make various projects and print parts for rib building."

"I learned to weld at Learn Build Fly. With great instruction and lots of practice, I became very comfortable with welding and found that I really enjoy it.
I'd recommend everyone experience welding and see what they can do.

"In LBF hangar two, you can enjoy learning about and flying drones with Nate and other drone pilots. In LBF hangar one, Mike Carson and others often assemble RC airplanes and teach kids about the electronics used inside."