A recent economic impact study by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) Division of Aeronautics has underscored the substantial economic contributions of Centennial Airport, revealing $2.4 billion in total business revenues and generating over 9,000 jobs in the region.
The 2025 Colorado Aviation Economic Impact Study (CEIS) details the airport's extensive economic footprint, with $769.5 million in total payroll and $1.3 billion in total value added. These figures demonstrate the critical role of general aviation in supporting diverse industries, from corporate aviation to flight training and medical missions.
At the heart of this economic success is Colorado SKIES Academy, a public charter school located at Centennial Airport that is pioneering aerospace-focused education for middle school students. By providing hands-on STEM learning experiences, the school is directly contributing to workforce development in the aviation sector.
The academy's innovative approach involves immersing students in real-world aviation environments, allowing them to interact with industry professionals and explore aeronautics laboratories. This educational model not only inspires future career paths but also strengthens the region's talent pipeline for aerospace and aviation industries.
Executive Director Christa Coryell emphasized the school's role in nurturing future aviation professionals, noting that graduates often proceed to specialized high schools, technical programs, and flight training academies. By bridging academic learning with industry needs, Colorado SKIES Academy is helping to sustain the long-term economic vitality of the Centennial area.
The CEIS report highlights how targeted educational initiatives can play a transformative role in regional economic development, demonstrating that investments in specialized education can yield significant returns for local industries and communities.
