By Nebraska Department of Transportation
LINCOLN, Neb. — The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) Aeronautics Division is launching a statewide traveling Youth Aviation Art Exhibit highlighting student creativity and aviation education across Nebraska.
Since 1986, NDOT Aeronautics has administered the U.S. and International Youth Aviation Art Contest, engaging students in exploring aviation through art and encouraging interest in STEM and aviation careers.
The traveling exhibit will feature the top three winning artworks from each of three age divisions and will be displayed at multiple locations across the state, beginning at Wayne State College.
Wayne State College (lobby of Connell Hall)
April 20 - May 1, 2026
Follow the journey of the traveling exhibit and learn more about the Youth Aviation Art Contest at dot.nebraska.gov/aeronautics/art-contest.
NDOT and its airport partners will also host two Aviation + Art Showcase events honoring student winners and aviation professionals.
Wayne Municipal Airport (Aviation + Art Showcase)
May 4, 2026 | 5 p.m.
Public showcase featuring student winner Kiersten Hans, Nebraska’s Senior Division first-place state winner and international competitor. Guests will also hear from aviation professionals working on the front lines of emergency response, including Brian Wilcox, a Nebraska pilot who supported wildfire rescue efforts during the Morrill wildfire, sharing firsthand insight into aerial firefighting and lifesaving flight operations.
Lincoln Airport (Aviation + Art Showcase)
May 11, 2026 | 11 a.m.
Public event featuring student artists:
- Rory O’Donnell, 13-years-old, Lincoln, Neb., First Place State, Intermediate Division
- Avery Powers, 9-years-old, Plattsmouth, Neb., First Place State, Junior Division
The event will also include remarks from Nebraska pilots involved in wildfire response and lifesaving flight operations.
Nebraska is home to 78 public-use airports that support community connectivity, economic development, and critical services including air medical transport and wildfire suppression.
“These airports are more than transportation hubs, they are lifelines for Nebraska communities,” said Jeremy Borrell, Director of NDOT Aeronautics. “This exhibit helps students see how their creativity connects to real aviation careers that save lives every day.”
For more information on the Youth Aviation Art Contest, visit dot.nebraska.gov/aeronautics/art-contest.