2023 opens with abundant flight training opportunities

Awards for vertical flight students

The Vertical Flight Foundation's annual scholarship application is open until February 1, with awards available ranging from $1,000 to $6,000. Scholarships are merit based, and the program is open to college and university students who demonstrate an interest in pursuing careers in the engineering field related to vertical flight technology.

To be eligible for an award, students must be currently enrolled as a full-time student and be registered in the relevant engineering program by the time one academic term has passed after the scholarship is awarded—in May at the Vertical Flight Society Annual Forum.

The application packet must be sent to the Vertical Flight Foundation coordinator by February 1 and include a completed scholarship application form; a résumé; a personal statement regarding the applicant's passion for aeronautics, engineering, and/or vertical flight; an official transcript from the college or university; and a recommendation from a professor.

Writing award for young pilots

Submissions are now being accepted for the fifth annual Richard Collins Writing Prize for Young Pilots. Pilots under the age of 24 can submit an original article on the topic of “my most memorable flight” for the opportunity to win two prizes. First and second place winners will receive a $5,000 and $,2,500 check, respectively, along with getting their articles published in Air Facts.

“Since launching this contest in 2019, the Collins Prize has encouraged hundreds of young pilots to pursue their passion for writing,” said Sporty’s Vice President and Air Facts Editor John Zimmerman. “We’re excited to honor Richard’s legacy with an even better contest this year.”

Submissions should be sent to [email protected] by March 7.

Funds available for undergrad, graduate engineers

The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) Foundation is constantly striving to inspire and support the next generation of aerospace professionals. One such way the organization works toward this goal is by providing scholarships and awards to undergraduate and graduate students studying science and engineering.

For undergrads, scholarships are available for sophomores, juniors, and seniors with options to renew funds each year. For graduate students, awards are available for students doing research in the air and space sciences. Applicants must be AIAA student members.

Application requirements differ for undergraduate and graduate students, and the deadline for submission is January 31. Awards range from $500 to $10,000.

Summer flight training program for high school students

Upwind Aviation is accepting applications for entry into its 2023 Upwind Summer Scholarship Program. The scholarship funds a nine-week flight training program for students in the San Francisco Bay Area during the summer prior to a student's senior year.

Submissions—which should include the application, written responses to questions, a video, two references, and a transcript copy—are due February 17.

An online informational meeting will be held for interested applicants on January 28.