Amal Holtz Air Force School Celebrates 70 Years of Excellence and Impact

Yesterday, the Amal Holtz Air Force School, a cornerstone of Israel’s defense and technological education, marked its 70th anniversary in a grand celebration held at the Air Force Auditorium in Herzliya. The event brought together students, alumni, educators, and senior Israeli Air Force commanders to honor the school’s extraordinary legacy and achievements, particularly during a year of unparalleled challenges for Israel’s security.

Founded by the Amal Educational Network 70 years ago in Tel Aviv, Holtz Air Force School has trained over 9,000 graduates who have become integral to Israel’s defense, technology, and society. Today, it serves 770 students from across the country in cutting-edge programs, including software engineering, cyber, electrical engineering, energy systems, electronics, and aviation mechanics. Recently, the school added a specialization in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), reflecting their critical role in modern defense and industry, as demonstrated during the Iron Swords War.

Holtz School’s impact is unparalleled: 100% enlistment rate in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), 94% matriculation eligibility, preparing students for higher education and advanced careers and multiple national accolades, including three-time winner of the National Values Education Award and the first Green School designation in Tel Aviv.

A milestone in the school’s history came nine years ago when Sarit Melamed became its first female principal, breaking a six-decade tradition of male leadership and reinforcing its commitment to gender equality and empowering women in education and technology.

The 70th-anniversary celebration gathered 400 attendees, including notable alumni in leadership positions across Israel’s defense and technology sectors, such as Eli Cohen, CEO of Minrav Group; Lior Poni, CEO of Dell Israel; and Yigal Barkat, VP of Marketing at Bank Hapoalim. Distinguished speakers included Brigadier General Shlomi Konforty, Head of Air Force Equipment Directorate; Alex Miller, Chairman of the Amal Educational Network; and Karen Tal, Amal’s Director General.

Karen Tal reflected on the school’s unique role in shaping Israel’s future:
“In a year when the State of Israel has faced threats from multiple fronts, the achievements of Holtz Air Force School stand as a testament to the vital importance of education. Our graduates are not just building their careers—they are safeguarding our nation’s existence. Amal takes immense pride in their contributions.” As the school enters its eighth decade, it remains at the forefront of cultivating the next generation of leaders, innovators, and defenders, ensuring Israel’s resilience and prosperity in an ever-changing world.