Events

History

The Baby Ace: Catalyst for Learn, Build, Fly:  In May 1955, a Corben Baby Ace graced the cover of Mechanix Illustrated magazine with a simple headline: “Build this plane for under $800 including engine!” The magazine introduced the first of a three-part article series written by EAA Founder Paul Poberezny that methodically stepped the reader through building and flying a homebuilt airplane.

A half-century later, at age 89, Paul decided that it was time to build another one, a flying example that would help tell the story of the airplane and its impact on EAA. He got started in early 2011, and before long, the Aeroplane Factory was humming with activity as supplies were gathered, tubing was measured and cut, and construction began.

In August of 2013, Paul Poberezny passed away.  It was the end of an era; however, it was not the end of the Baby Ace project. Everyone knew the Baby Ace deserved to be finished and flown to AirVenture Oshkosh 2014 as a tribute to Paul.   

In November of 2013 the Baby Ace was acquired by EAA chapter 640 and moved from Oshkosh to Wausau, and the countdown to AirVenture began.  Hard work and dedication from Chapter 640 members, volunteers, and several high school students completed the second Mechanix Illustrated Baby Ace making its first flight on July 19, 2014.  Nine days later it fulfilled its prophecy by flying the opening ceremony of AirVenture 2014.      

This event, in April of 2015, represents the catalyst that launched Learn Build Fly, a 501C3 non-profit organization, .  The next project was the melding of Steve Wittman’s Buttercup and Tailwind design into an aircraft we call the Wittman Legacy. 

In 2018, after extensive fund raising efforts, the Learn Build Fly Education Center Hangar was built at the Wausau Downtown Airport.  Seasoned contractors from various trades, along with many volunteers,  all pitched in to complete the project.  At this new facility work resumed on the Wittman Legacy build as participation and recognition grew.  Donations continued to funnel in and soon equipment needs were fulfilled including welders, a mill, a lathe, a CNC plasma table, computers, computer aided design software, 3D printers and additional wood working equipment.  With this new equipment came additional training needs.  Volunteers began stepping up providing the strength and leadership needed to ensure our success.    

From our humble beginnings as an idea (the Wittman Legacy) shared on the floor of the airport terminal to the successful culmination of Paul Poberezny’s Baby Ace opening Air Venture 2014, our goal has always been to help young people and adults realize their full potential by providing the tools and guidance to ensure success.  Passion and commitment play a huge role in igniting our vision, and with incredible community support Learn Build Fly’s mission continues to evolve.   

In 2022 we will add our second hangar facility.  This addition represents an expanded partnership with area businesses and school districts to promote science, technology, engineering, and manufacturing.  Through the commitment of its volunteers, community supporters, and passion for aviation, Learn Build Fly continues to strive to accomplish its mission.  To build a stronger community by helping people of all ages recognize their full potential.      

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Support Us

You can help us grow our mission—promoting aviation, engineering, and STEM learning to youth and the greater community!

Share your time and talents as a volunteer

• Attend a Build Night (Tuesdays, 7:00 p.m., LBF Hangar)
• Propose a workshop or class
• Help with projects, facility upkeep, equipment maintenance, event staffing, and more
• Contact Us to learn more

Donate items

• Parts and materials, supplies, hand tools, and machinery all help us keep learning and creating.
• See our “Wish List” below.
• Contact Us to discuss items and to arrange pick up or drop off

Make a financial gift

• Donate here
• Bring cash donations or checks to any Tuesday Build Night, or mail checks made out to Learn Build Fly to—

We are a non-profit 501 C3 organization.

• Click here to view our charitable organization certificate
• Click here to view our tax-exempt certificates.

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