In the coming weeks, AMA Foundation Executive Director Steve Haston will be traveling to Arizona and California. He's eager to connect with AMA members and clubs in the area!
Steve wrote the following letter explaining the crucial nature of this travel:
"I will be traveling to Arizona and California as part of the AMA Foundation's 2026 road trip. I would welcome the opportunity to connect with many of you along the way.
"From March 19-22, 2026, I will be attending the Arizona Scale Jamboree in Cave Creek, Arizona. This outstanding event represents the craftsmanship, technical precision, and fellowship that define model aviation at its best. It is an ideal setting to visit with members, supporters, and club leaders about the future of our foundation and the mission we share.
"The purpose of this visit is clear: the AMA Foundation exists to support the mission of AMA. That mission—promoting flying sites, fostering innovation, building community, and advancing STEM education—remains as relevant today as it was when AMA was founded in 1936.
"Across the country, more than 170,000 members and over 2,400 chartered clubs continue to demonstrate that model aviation is not simply a pastime. It is a hands-on laboratory for STEM education. It is a proving ground for future engineers and aerospace professionals. It is a community that passes knowledge and discipline from one generation to the next. The AMA Foundation's role is to ensure that this work continues—not just this year, but for decades to come.
"During my time in Arizona, I will be meeting with donors and members to discuss planned giving, stewardship, and the long-term sustainability of the programs and flying sites that make this hobby possible. Every scholarship awarded, every youth outreach effort supported, and every strategic initiative funded reflects the generosity of those who believe in the future of model aviation.
"Following Arizona, I will travel to Oceanside, California, from March 23-28, 2026. Here, I will be meeting with aviation and aerospace companies to present the value of partnering with AMA and the AMA Foundation. The case is straightforward: AMA represents a nationwide network of skilled, motivated individuals who often pursue careers in engineering, aviation technology, manufacturing, and aerospace. Businesses that become stakeholders in our mission are investing directly in a proven pipeline of future talent.
"Securing a sustainable future for model aviation requires engagement from all of us—members, donors, industry partners, and leaders alike. The AMA Foundation is committed to transforming philanthropic support into meaningful results that strengthen AMA today and position it for tomorrow.
"If you will be in the Arizona or Southern California area during the time of my travels, I encourage you to reach out. I would value the opportunity to visit, listen to your perspective, and discuss how we can continue building a strong and enduring future for the hobby and sport we care about so deeply.
"Thank you for your continued commitment to AMA, the AMA Foundation, and model aviation."
To schedule a visit with Steve, email stephenh@modelaircraft.org or call (765) 287-1256, ext. 279.
