Overview:

The Commemorative Air Force SoCal Wing, in partnership with the Si Robin Foundation, Lightspeed Aviation, and in association with Camarillo Flight Instruction, is proud to announce the launch of our Aviation Scholarship Program. This initiative is designed to support the next generation of professional pilots by offering scholarships for young individuals aged 16-25 who are passionate about pursuing a career in aviation.

Scholarship Details:

  • Scholarship Amount: Valued at up to $15,000.
  • What the Scholarship Covers:
    • Ground and flight training costs associated with obtaining an FAA Private Pilot Certificate from Camarillo Flight Instruction.
    • Headset for flight training.
  • Mentorship: Each awardee will be paired with a mentor from the Commemorative Air Force, who will provide guidance and support as they navigate their professional aviation journey.

Eligibility:

  • Applicants must be between the ages of 16-25. Age will be verified prior to awarding of a scholarship.
  • Applicants should have a strong interest in pursuing a career as a professional pilot.
  • Applicants must be a resident of Ventura County or a member in good standing of the Southern California Wing of the Commemorative Air Force, be a US Citizen, or have received approval for flight training via the Flight Training Security Program, and is subject to verification.
  • Applicants must be a US Citizen or have received approval for flight training via the Department of Homeland Security Flight Training Security Program, and is subject to verification.
  • No prior flight experience is required.

Selection Criteria:

Scholarship recipients will be selected based on a comprehensive evaluation of the following factors:

  • Passion for Aviation: A genuine interest in aviation and a clear desire to pursue a career as a professional pilot.
  • Community Involvement: Demonstrated commitment to giving back to the community through volunteer work or other forms of civic engagement.
  • Academic Performance: Strong academic record that reflects the applicant’s dedication and work ethic.

Application Process:

    1. Complete the online application Form: The application form can be found here:  Application Form Link
    2. Personal Statement: A brief essay (500-700 words) detailing your passion for aviation, career aspirations, and why you believe you should be awarded this scholarship.
    3. Letter of Recommendation: A letter from a teacher, mentor, or community leader who can speak to your character, achievements, and potential in the field of aviation.

 

Application Deadline: December 16, 2024

Questions?

For more information or if you have any questions, please contact us at scholarships@cafsocal.com.

We look forward to receiving your application and supporting your journey to the skies!

 

Terms & Conditions

1. The scholarship recipient must be between the ages of sixteen (16) and twenty five (25) years, be a resident of Ventura County or a member in good standing with the Southern California Wing of the Commemorative Air Force, be a US Citizen, or have received approval for flight training via the Flight Training Security Program, and is subject to verification.
2. No funds shall be awarded directly to the scholarship recipient. All third party participants shall be compensated out of the scholarship funds.
3. All flight training must be completed within one (1) year from the receipt of the scholarship award. Any request for an extension of time must be submitted in writing to the Scholarship Coordinator for approval.
4. The Scholarship Coordinator will monitor the Student’s progress throughout the course of the Scholarship Program. If the Student is not able to show satisfactory progress, then the Student may be removed from the Scholarship Program at the discretion of the Scholarship Coordinator.
5. Upon receiving the award of the scholarship the Student must complete the following within the following timeframes::

  • Ground School within the first thirty (30) days.
  • FAA Student Pilot Medical Certificate within the first thirty (30) days.
  • Pass the FAA Private Pilot License Written Exam within the first ninety (90) days.
  • Complete the first solo flight within the first six (6) months.

6. The Student agrees to meet with the coordinator/mentor on a monthly basis. If the Student is a minor, then the parent or guardian is welcome to also attend the monthly meetings.
7. The Student, and parent or guardian, if a minor, give their consent to using their photo or likeness, on any paper publication, digital publication, website, internet and social media for the sole purpose of promoting, sharing, and featuring the Scholarship Program with the general public.
8. The training for the Student will be provided by Camarillo Flight Instruction (CFI). Awardees are required to agree to the Terms and Conditions as set forth by CFI.
9. By providing your email address, you agree to be contacted by the CAF Southern California Wing in regards to your application and results. Your email will be kept on file for future contact regarding future scholarship and other opportunities specifically related to the CAFSOCAL only. Your information is never sold or shared to 3rd parties without your permission.