Centennial Airport's Economic Impact Reveals Aviation Education's Critical Role

A recent economic impact study from the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) Division of Aeronautics reveals the substantial economic significance of Centennial Airport, generating $2.4 billion in total business revenues and supporting 9,236 jobs in the region.

The 2025 Colorado Aviation Economic Impact Study (CEIS) specifically highlights Colorado SKIES Academy as a key contributor to the airport's ecosystem. The public charter school, focused on aerospace and aviation education for middle school students, plays a critical role in developing the future workforce for Colorado's aviation and aerospace industries.

Located at Centennial Airport, Colorado SKIES Academy provides students with hands-on learning experiences in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). By offering project-based education and direct interactions with aviation professionals, the school creates a direct pipeline of skilled talent for the aerospace sector.

The economic report demonstrates that Centennial Airport generates $769.5 million in total payroll and contributes $1.3 billion in total value added to the regional economy. These figures underscore the importance of aviation-related educational institutions in supporting and expanding economic opportunities.

Colorado SKIES Academy's approach goes beyond traditional classroom learning. Through collaborations with airport businesses, civic groups, and higher education institutions, the school creates meaningful connections between education and industry, offering students career fairs, airfield tours, and potential mentorship opportunities.

Executive Director Christa Coryell emphasized the school's mission to nurture future aviators, engineers, and innovators, noting how their educational model directly supports the continued growth of the aviation industry.