05/06/2026 – A Message from our CEO, Scot Laney
First, thank you for being part of the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum community. Your involvement here—whether as a visitor, volunteer, or supporter—makes it possible for us to achieve our mission. We couldn’t do it without you!
Our 2025 independent audit is now complete, and more than 80% of all giving to the museum directly supports programming here. Less than 9% supports staff salaries. That’s an important number — your monetary contributions are stewarded carefully, and we work hard to ensure every dollar makes a meaningful impact.
It is also interesting to note that, of the top ten aviation museums in the United States according to Travel + Leisure, only two are not owned and operated by the U.S. government. In fact, we receive very little — and in most years, no — federal taxpayer support for our operations.
On a separate note, we have just completed the heavy lifting associated with our Guest Experience reset in both pavilions. Our aircraft are now exhibited in a new way — by role and type. Come explore four generations of fighter aircraft in our Fighter Town USA exhibits throughout the museum buildings and outdoor spaces. Combat Search and Rescue, Forward Observation, Ground Attack, General Aviation, Early Flight, Stunt and Racing, and Golden Era aircraft are now grouped together to show the progression of each type through the decades represented in our collection.
Gone are many of the chains and bollards previously used to keep these aircraft from being fully appreciated. The result is an up-close, immersive, and unique experience we hope you will enjoy.
On May 30, I hope you will join me for the Afterburner event. Fighter jets, exotic cars, exceptional food, and craft beverages will come together for a truly distinctive experience. We will also feature very special artwork in a silent auction — pieces you will not find available anywhere else.
As always, please introduce yourself when you visit. I would truly appreciate meeting you. I’m usually around; just ask for me at the front desk.
Scot Laney, CEO
