Palm Springs Air Museum Opens New Aviation Learning Center

The new Ronald M. Auen Learning Center aims to inspire students with hands-on STEM education.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 1:25am

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A high-contrast, silkscreen-style illustration of an aircraft propeller repeated in a grid pattern, using vibrant neon colors and heavy black outlines to conceptually represent the interactive and immersive nature of the new aviation learning center.The new aviation learning center in Palm Springs aims to spark students' interest in STEM careers through hands-on, interactive experiences.Palm Springs Today

The Palm Springs Air Museum has officially opened the Ronald M. Auen Learning Center, a new facility designed to expand access to STEM education and provide interactive learning experiences in a real-world aviation setting. Museum officials say the center will play a key role in inspiring the next generation of pilots, engineers, and innovators by connecting young people in the Coachella Valley to future opportunities in the aviation industry.

Why it matters

The new learning center represents a continued investment in education and workforce development for the Palm Springs region, helping to expose students to potential careers in the growing aviation sector. By offering hands-on learning opportunities, the museum hopes to spark interest and prepare the next generation of STEM professionals.

The details

The Ronald M. Auen Learning Center features interactive exhibits and programs that allow students to explore science, technology, engineering, and aviation concepts through immersive, real-world experiences. The museum says the new facility will complement its existing collection of vintage aircraft and educational offerings.

  • The Palm Springs Air Museum held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open the Ronald M. Auen Learning Center on March 30, 2026.

The players

Palm Springs Air Museum

A museum in Palm Springs, California that focuses on preserving and displaying vintage aircraft, as well as providing educational programs related to aviation history and technology.

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What’s next

The museum plans to continue expanding the learning center's programming and partnerships with local schools and organizations to reach more students in the Coachella Valley.

The takeaway

The new Ronald M. Auen Learning Center at the Palm Springs Air Museum represents an important investment in STEM education and workforce development, providing hands-on opportunities for young people to explore careers in the growing aviation industry.