Inspiring the Next Generation of Eco-Tourism Leaders at Rouse High School

In the spring of 2025, Hot Air Events Austin had the incredible opportunity to share our love of hot air ballooning with the Travel and Tourism students and staff at Rouse High School in Leander, Texas. The students were studying eco-tourism and learning what it takes to build and maintain a successful tourism-based business in Central Texas — and what better way to explore sustainable adventure than with a hands-on hot air balloon experience?

We designed a semi hands-on balloon demonstration to give students a real-world glimpse into how a balloon system works. With help from several eager volunteers, we assembled the “bottom end” of the balloon — including the basket, upright poles, and burner rig.

Once the setup was complete, students helped us lay out the envelope (the fabric portion of the balloon) across the field and prepared for a cold inflation. Just as the fan began to fill the envelope with air, a quick gust of wind made things a little more exciting! The basket shifted slightly, giving a few students an authentic lesson in the importance of safety and teamwork in ballooning. Luckily, our balloon was securely tethered to the truck, and everything came to a smooth stop before anyone could lift off early!

After deflating and packing up the envelope, students had a chance to climb into the basket and even operate the burners, experiencing firsthand the power of over 23 million BTUs of heat roaring into the sky. It was a thrilling, unforgettable moment that captured the excitement and wonder of hot air balloon flight.

Finally, the group helped us pack up the equipment and reload the trailer, wrapping up a fun and educational morning.

We’re so thankful to the amazing staff and students at Rouse High School for their enthusiasm and curiosity. Sharing the beauty and science of hot air ballooning in Central Texas with the next generation of travel and tourism professionals was truly an honor.

We can’t wait to return in December 2025 to share another unforgettable ballooning experience with the Rouse Raiders!