About Us
Our Story
Since then, AMK has grown into a beacon of aviation education and history, welcoming visitors from all 50 states and over 140 countries. Every exhibit, program, and event is a tribute to Kentucky’s legacy in aviation — a story of innovation, bravery, and the pursuit of progress. Our work reached a milestone in 2006, when the Kentucky General Assembly designated us as the official aviation museum for the Commonwealth, underscoring our role as a resource that connects Kentuckians to the skies above and to the countless aviation pioneers hailing from our state.
From historic aircraft displays to hands-on learning experiences, AMK offers something for everyone, sparking curiosity and inspiring future generations to dream big. Our journey is one of transformation, from a small circle of dreamers to a statewide force in aviation education, impacting lives and building legacies that soar beyond Kentucky’s borders.
Our Mission and Impact
The heart of our mission is not only to preserve aviation history but to ignite curiosity and inspire career paths in aviation and STEM. Aviation careers extend far beyond the cockpit; they encompass engineering, mechanics, air traffic control, meteorology, and more. AMK encourages youth to explore these pathways through immersive programs that blend history, science, and real-world application. Each exhibit and educational program is crafted to expand young minds, sparking an appreciation for aviation’s role in a technologically advancing world.
Our Team
Tristen Chesser
Executive Director
Alli Cassetty
Development Director
Rachel Stivers-Bender
Collections Manager
2026 KAEC Board of DIRECTORS
- Ron McBride
- Chairperson
- Dean Hammond
- Vice Chairperson
- Chris Campbell
- Secretary
- Dean Hammond
- Treasurer (Iterim)
- Bobby Owens
- Director
- Bob Jones
- Director
- Dr. Tim Holt
- Director
- Tanner Perdue
- Trustee
- Ed Robie
- Trustee
