Helicopter Foundation International is offering several scholarships in an effort to bolster the ranks of rotary-wing commercial pilots and maintenance technicians. The application window closes Nov. 30. Full details and applications are available at the website.
“Helicopter Foundation International has long recognized the need for qualified commercial helicopter pilots and helicopter maintenance technicians,” the organization said on its website. “Over the last several years, the shortage has become very real. Many of our experienced pilots and maintenance technicians are nearing retirement age. Conflicts have pulled experienced personnel from our ranks at a time when the helicopter industry is enjoying growth—due in part to the wider recognition of the tremendous versatility of this phenomenal and versatile machine.”
The organization is sponsoring four scholarships of up to $5,000 each to assist a qualified pilot in obtaining a commercial certificate. Recipients also will receive a complimentary one-year membership in Helicopter Association International and registration to Heli-Expo 2014 in Anaheim, Calif.
Also available are six scholarships of up to $2,500 each for helicopter maintenance technicians, plus eight scholarships of up to $1,600 each for individuals who hold recent airframe and powerplant certificates or are about to graduate from an FAA-approved Part 147 aviation maintenance technician school. Recipients also will receive a three-year membership to HAI and registration to Heli-Expo 2014.
One scholarship is available to attend a safety management course at Heli-Expo, along with a complimentary registration to the conference. This scholarship is intended to encourage a stronger focus on safety as well as safety education and training in helicopter operations.
