On Wednesday, November 19, 2025, a group of 40 excited Wagener-Salley High School sophomores and juniors accompanied by dedicated administrator, parent, and faculty members, Mr. Neloms, Principal, Ms. Burr, volunteer parent, Ms. Akins, CATE lead and Consumer Family Science, Mr. Busbee, Agriculture, and Mr. Bailey, Welding traveled to Boeing South Carolina for an enriching DreamLearners experience. This special event offered the students a unique opportunity to explore aerospace careers, engage with hands-on STEM activities, and connect with successful alumni who once walked the same high school hallways. This experience was made possible through the support of Title I funding, which helps ensure students have access to high-quality educational enrichment opportunities.
The visit began promptly when students arrived at Boeing’s North Charleston campus. After passing through security, the group was escorted to onsite parking and then to the Final Assembly tour balcony space, their base for the day’s activities. The excitement grew as students prepared to witness firsthand the innovative processes behind one of the world’s leading aerospace manufacturers.
Next, students enjoyed a group photo opportunity followed by a short presentation highlighting Boeing’s mission, community involvement, and cutting-edge technologies. The presentation led seamlessly into a visual tour of the Final Assembly facility, where students were able to observe the impressive scale, precision, and collaboration required to build Boeing’s aircraft. For many, it was a rare look at the engineering and manufacturing careers they often hear about but now could see in action.
The energy remained high as the group transitioned into a project-based team-building activity from 11:00 to 11:30 AM. Students partnered up to design, build, and test paper airplanes, competing for distance, accuracy, and creativity. The friendly competition brought out enthusiastic cheers as teams launched their creations, vying for top honors and fun prizes. The activity not only reinforced concepts of aerodynamics and problem-solving but also showcased the importance of teamwork—an essential skill in the aerospace industry.
Next, students had the special opportunity to hear from featured career speakers Brian W. Pippen and Melvin J. Rivers, both Boeing teammates and proud graduates of Wagener-Salley High School. Their stories of perseverance, professional growth, and pride in their roots resonated deeply with the students. They emphasized the importance of staying focused, taking advantage of opportunities, and believing in the value of their education. Hearing from alumni who have achieved success within a global company inspired many students to envision new possibilities for their own futures.
As the visit concluded, Boeing teammates escorted the group back to their bus, marking the end of an informative and motivating day.
This DreamLearners experience truly made an impact by connecting academic learning with real-world careers, encouraging curiosity, and igniting motivation among the Wagener-Salley students. Thanks to the coordination of Leah Shackleford, Art Teacher, Wagener-Salley High School and Frank R. Hatten, State Advocacy and Global Engagement, Boeing South Carolina, students enjoyed a memorable and purposeful day of exploration. The use of Title I funds helped make this opportunity possible, ensuring equitable access to meaningful, high-impact educational experiences.
The visit showcased not only Boeing’s commitment to education but also the bright futures awaiting the next generation of innovators from Wagener-Salley High School.