The HEAT Center
STUDENTS WILL DEVELOP CONFIDENCE TO EXPLORE FUTURE OPTIONS AND OPPORTUNITIES
Our Story
Welcome to the Heartland Engineering and Aviation Technology (HEAT) Center, an educational hub nestled within Sebring Regional Airport, committed to empowering our youth and guiding them toward informed career choices in the fields of aviation and aerospace.
Our journey began modestly at Lake Placid High School in 1998, and over the years, through the joint efforts of the Highlands County School Board and community partners, the HEAT Center has evolved into a vital resource for fostering workplace readiness skills among our local youth.
Recognizing the need to bridge the gap between education and industry demands, the HEAT Center was envisioned as a platform to explore various career paths within Aviation and Aerospace Education. As we progressed, our focus expanded, emphasizing the development workplace readiness skills and additional career options and opportunities.
Presently, alongside our established Aviation and Aerospace curriculum and the Aeronautical Engineering program, we are dedicated to creating a pathway for Airframe and Powerplant certification. Collaborating with FAA-certified Airframe and Powerplant repair shops adjacent to our facility at Sebring Regional Airport, this new endeavor aims to provide students with hands-on experience and insight into this specialized field.
Our commitment extends beyond imparting technical knowledge; we strive to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills necessary for success in the workforce. By offering a glimpse into various career pathways, we aim to empower students to explore their interests and make informed choices about their future endeavors.
Looking ahead, we are dedicated to providing a comprehensive approach that caters to diverse career aspirations. We understand the value of offering options that not only prepare students for immediate careers but also nurture those who aim for higher education. Our commitment lies in fostering a supportive environment where individuals can pursue their passions and goals, whether in practical careers or further academic endeavors.
Heartland Engineering and Aviation Technology Team
Michael Halpern
Lake Placid High School
Michael, an FDOE certified CTE instructor, guides Aerospace Technologies and Advanced Manufacturing at Highlands Aviation & Aerospace. Leading over 40 students in building Story Musgrave’s AirCam, his educational leadership spans 15 years, including an assistant principal role. Holding a Master’s in Educational Leadership, he serves as President of EAA Chapter 1240 in Sebring, Florida, pursuing flight training for a private pilot’s license.
Bob Ohlinger
Community Volunteer
Bob, a community volunteer and EAA Chapter 1240 member, shares vast aviation and aircraft build expertise with the Aviation Academy. His hands-on teaching approach empowers students, reflecting his 7000-hr. pilot experience, FAA Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic’s certificate, and academic achievements. Passionate about inspiring future aviators, he hopes to emulate his daughter, a Major and KC-10 pilot in the US Air Force.
Dean Long
Community Volunteer
Dean, a community volunteer and seasoned engineer with extensive experience in the automotive industry, and currently serving as the President of his own design firm. Recognized as a dynamic instructor, his wealth of real-world experience enhances our students’ learning. As the lead instructor for our engineering program, he brings credibility and practical insights to the classroom.
Bill Pisarello
Community Volunteer
Bill, a dedicated community volunteer and EAA Chapter 1240 member, is our most experienced aircraft builder, enriching the Academy program. A private pilot since 1999, he owned a C172 since 1998 and served as Chapter 594 EAA President from 2010-2015. Bill contributed to the chapter build of the Wright Flyer from Smithsonian Plans, now displayed at the Museum at Floyd Bennett Field in Queens, NY. He is also a home builder of the RV-9 aircraft.
Charlie Dye
AOPA Instructor
Charlie, an AOPA instructor and an EAA Chapter 1240 member who joined our team in November 2020. A retired Naval Aviator and Captain for American Airlines Charlie brings a wealth of aviation experience from the military and commercial aviation venues. He is currently teaching the AOPA High School Aviation curriculum.
Steve Picklesimer
Sebring High School
Steve has over 35 years in education with certifications in Chemistry, Physics, Earth Space Science, and CTE, he earned his B.S. in Geology from West Virginia University in 1983. Pioneering internet use in classrooms, he taught the Principals of Technology program, designed for vocational students. Excited to work with the young adults in Highlands County, he combines academic and vocational learning.
David Probst
Retired US Air Force
Jeremy Brod
Avon Park High School