Thomas M. Sando, an aviation instructor at Williston High School and the Williston Basin CTE Center in Williston, North Dakota, has been selected as the 2025 winner of the A. Scott Crossfield Aerospace Educator of the Year.
According to officials with the National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF), Sando has “developed a dynamic classroom that includes hands-on projects, field trips to industry-leading facilities, and mentorship that guides students toward careers in aviation.”
“For example, his creation of a rotating module that can be used across schools in the Williston region has expanded aerospace education access, engaging students from multiple school districts,” NAHF officials continued. “His grant applications have led to many awards, including an $80,000 award from the Robert E. Herman Foundation. He also has organized educational field trips to the University of North Dakota’s aviation program, the Grand Forks air traffic control tower, and the Cirrus Aircraft factory.”
“Thomas has transformed aerospace education within our community,” writes his nominator and colleague Katie Brew, “sparking a passion for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) and aviation careers in students across northwest North Dakota. Thomas’s innovative approach to aerospace education is evident in every aspect of his program.”
“Aerospace education is more than a subject,” Sando said. “It is a gateway to curiosity, innovation, and opportunity. Watching my students grow, develop new skills, and pursue their dreams is the most rewarding aspect of my work. I am proud to contribute to shaping the next generation of aviation professionals and to share my passion for this dynamic field with students, colleagues, and the community.”
“Thomas Sando exemplifies what it means to be a visionary aerospace educator,” said Aimee Maruyama, President and CEO of the National Aviation Hall of Fame. “His hands-on, community-centered approach to teaching aviation not only opens doors for students in North Dakota, but also serves as a national model for engaging young people in STEM and aviation careers. We are proud to recognize his outstanding contributions with the 2025 A. Scott Crossfield Award.”
Sando will be honored at the President’s Reception on Sept. 18, 2025, as part of the NAHF 61st Enshrinement Dinner and Ceremony in Wichita, Kansas.
The A. Scott Crossfield Aerospace Educator of the Year award was founded in 1986 by NAHF enshrinee, engineer, and test pilot A. Scott Crossfield (1921–2006). Positively influenced by teachers in his life, Crossfield created the award to recognize an exemplary K-12 classroom teacher for innovative use of aerospace to inspire young people toward a greater interest in STEM subjects and potential aerospace-related careers.
For more information: NationalAviation.org
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