The HBCU Aviation Directors’ Summit is an annual conference that brings together leaders, educators, students, and industry partners to advance the future of aviation at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the United States.

The 2025 summit will be hosted by the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) in Princess Anne, Maryland, from November 12–14, 2025. Centered on the theme “Elevating HBCU Aviation: Innovation, Inclusion, Industry Partnership,” this year’s conference will showcase groundbreaking initiatives, strengthen collaboration between academia and industry, and strategize on improving aviation education to enhance the aerospace industry of the future.

Over three days, participants will engage in panels, working sessions, and networking opportunities focused on innovation, inclusion, and public-private partnerships. Highlights include industry trend discussions, women in aviation sessions, strategic planning for HBCU collaboration, and immersive networking events, culminating in a forward-looking roadmap for HBCU aviation programs.

The summit serves as a platform to share best practices, build strategic partnerships, and ensure HBCUs continue to play a vital role in shaping the next generation of aviation leaders.