Photograph by Linda KC Reynolds

More than 250 volunteers are needed to make the 2017 LA County Air Show a success. According to air show organizers, Civil Air Patrol and Sea Cadets are among the most dedicated and hard-working volunteers. The 2017 show is March 25-26 at the Gen. William J. Fox Airfield in Lancaster, Calif. The show is presented by Lockheed Martin and will feature the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.

The Los Angeles County Air Show is scheduled for March 25-26 at the General William J. Fox Airfield in Lancaster, Calif., and will feature the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.

Air show organizers hosted a volunteer information meeting at Antelope Valley College Jan. 11 with nearly 100 volunteers attending. 

“We need about 250 volunteers to make the show a success,” said volunteer coordinator Betty Evans. “Our volunteers are the backbone of the show; without them, the show would not be possible.”

Evans began as the volunteer bookkeeper and is now the volunteer coordinator. Born and raised in the Aerospace Valley and working 10 years in security at the F-16 CTF at Edwards Air Force Base, she has always had a passion for all things that fly. When the opportunity to volunteer for the first show in 2013 presented itself, she did not hesitate.

“It is such a great show with so much going on, there is something for everyone. We work with the best people in the aerospace community and we draw a friendly crowd.” She praised the Civil Air Patrol and Sea Cadets for their dedication and commitment. “It is a great way for our youth to get involved–they are exceptional workers.”

Volunteer positions include admissions, ADA Compliance, a FOD Squad that insures no debris will interfere with flying, gate security, hospitality, lost and found, parking, ramp patrol, and more. Other than cadets, volunteers must be 18 years old with a valid U.S. ID and able to work 8-10 hours both days. Volunteers receive lunch and a special air show T-shirt. Evans said that volunteering at the air show is also a great experience to list on any job application or resume. 

Considered one of the nation’s premier air shows, it has a full schedule of world renowned aerobatic performers, skydivers and warbirds from all over the country. In addition to the attractions in the sky, there are extensive static displays, an iconic Aeronautical Historical Panel and a hands-on STEM Exhibition, where kids enjoy robotics and science experiments.       

The air show attracts tens of thousands of visitors from all over the world and still manages to maintain a hometown, personal, family oriented atmosphere.

For more information on how you can become a volunteer for the LA County Air Show, contact Betty Evans at 661-619-6467 or email volunteermanager@lacas.us. You can also visit www.lacountyairshow.com and click on the volunteers link.