Gilbane Celebrates Two Milestones Expanding Educational Opportunities for Detroit Students

Davis Aerospace Technical High School opens at Coleman A. Young International Airport as construction continues on a new arts-focused school in Southwest Detroit

DETROIT, MI - Oct. 30, 2026 - Gilbane Building joined Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) leaders, students, families, and community partners to celebrate two significant milestones advancing education in Detroit: the opening of Davis Aerospace Technical High School and the groundbreaking for Southwest International Academy of Arts and Culture.

Together, the projects reflect the District's continued investment in learning environments that connect students with hands-on experiences, specialized programs, and future career opportunities.

On October 16, the District celebrated the return of Davis Aerospace Technical High School to Coleman A. Young International Airport after 13 years. The $23.5 million renovation transformed the airport's former passenger terminal into a modern learning environment focused on aviation, engineering, and drone technology.

"When we set out to rebuild this district, we made a promise to our students, families, and the Davis Aerospace community that this school would return to the Detroit City Airport, where it always belonged. Today, we delivered on that promise," said Superintendent Nikolai Vitti, DPSCD.

As construction manager, Gilbane worked with the District, Plante Moran Realpoint, Quinn Evans, and project partners on the renovation. The new Davis Aerospace Technical High School immerses students in an active airport environment while supporting classroom instruction and hands-on learning. Students can study flight fundamentals and aircraft systems, prepare for the FAA Remote Pilot Certificate, train with simulators, and gain experience piloting aircraft.

Just days later, the District broke ground on Southwest International Academy of Arts and Culture, a new pre-K-8 school planned for Southwest Detroit. The nearly $50 million project will bring core academic instruction together with music, dance, theater, and other arts programming. Plans also include a soccer field designed to support students and create a gathering place for families and neighbors.

The Southwest International Academy of Arts and Culture will serve as a direct feeder to Detroit School of Arts, creating a connected arts education pathway for Detroit students. Community members helped shape elements of the campus, including its identity, colors, and mascot. The new school is scheduled to welcome students in fall 2027.

"Detroit students deserve learning environments that reflect their communities and open doors to their futures," said Lynn Rogien, vice president and Michigan business leader, Gilbane Building. "From hands-on aviation training to a new pathway for arts education, these projects connect students with opportunities to discover their strengths and build real-world skills. We are proud to work alongside Detroit Public Schools Community District, Plante Moran Realpoint, and our project partners to bring these important investments to life."

From an aviation school connected directly to an active airport to an arts-focused campus shaped with community input, these projects create distinct opportunities rooted in the people and neighborhoods they serve. They also show what strong partnerships can deliver for students, families, and the city of Detroit.