Marcus Petitjean Biography
Marcus Petitjean's job description at Russia Local Schools in Russia, Ohio reads "Technology Coordinator." He maintains the school's computer network and teaches what looks to be "Shop." Titles and appearances, however, can be misleading. Marcus' students learn a great deal more than computer and tool savvy.Marcus is a craftsman/educator trained in industrial arts education at Eastern Kentucky University and computer science education at the University of Dayton. He is also a veteran of 28 years in the public school system, teaching woodworking, metalworking, technology, engineering, and computer science. Most recently, he has branched out into aeronautics.
In 2002, Marcus began to work with the Wright Brothers Aeroplane Company (WBAC), an educational foundation that interest kids in aerospace careers by involving them in the construction of aircraft. Marcus' students began by building wing ribs and other parts for a copy of the1903 Wright Flyer I, the first aircraft to fly successfully. This replica now hangs over the entrance of the Dayton International Airport. When the WBAC built the 1905 Wright Flyer III, the world's first practical airplane, his students built an entire wing, parts of another, and the landing skids. In 2004, Marcus decided his kids should attempt a complete aircraft all on their own. Under his guidance and with the help of the WBAC, Marcus' eighth-grade students built a copy of the 1902 Wright Glider, the first fully controllable aircraft, took it to Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, and flew it. For that Marcus and his students all received commendations from the Ohio State Legislature.
Since then, his students have completed two more flying replicas of Wright aircraft. Along the way they have learned not only science, math, engineering, and history, but also problem solving, self-reliance, persistence, and teamwork. This unique and extraordinary educational program caught the attention of the Aviation Hall of Fame and in 2007 they honored Marcus Petitjean with the "Scott Crossfield Award" for excellence in aerospace education. Scott Crossfield is a legendary test pilot and the first person to fly at twice the speed of sound. His award honors those educators who make accomplishments like his possible. Marcus Petitjean became one of the "Crossfield Kids," an honorary organization of some of the best teachers in America.