The National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) announced the three recipients of the 2024 Henry Ogrodzinski (Henry O.) Scholarship:
Julia Cagasan (Liberty University)
Christine Larson (Southern Utah University)
Tatum Navrkal (University of Nebraska at Omaha)
Established by NASAO in 2014, this scholarship is awarded in memory of Henry Ogrodzinski, who led NASAO as its President and CEO from 1996 to 2013. Henry O. (as he was referred to by the industry) dedicated his life to higher education and academic achievement. The Henry O. Scholarship Program awards $1,000 to three college upperclassmen who are pursuing a career in the aviation or aerospace industry.
“From more than 40 applicants, we are pleased to have selected these individuals for the Henry O. Scholarship,” said Mike McHugh Chair of NASAO’s Aviation Education Committee and Aviation Education Coordinator of the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission. “We hope to continue Henry’s legacy while aiding these students in pursuing their dreams. Congratulations to the recipients!”
“NASAO is excited to once again advance the future of aviation by awarding scholarships to these three outstanding students,” said Greg Pecoraro, NASAO President and CEO. “Through the support and encouragement, we can offer these students, we advance both our industry and honor the legacy of our long-time president, Henry O.”
South Carolina Aviation Association (SCAA) has awarded five scholarships to South Carolinians pursuing careers in the aviation industry. They are LeeAnne Aganos, Colin Crader, John Gay, Karlie Hayes and Oswaldo Trejo.
LeeAnne Aganos, of Horry, a standout student at the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics, began the Aviation Maintenance Program in January 2024 and quickly impressed her peers and instructors with her hard work and determination. LeeAnne’s passion for aviation maintenance, inspired by her grandfather’s military stories and her own automotive mechanics experience, is evident in her performance. She was recently selected for the MRO Americas’ AMC competition due to her exceptional team skills and active participation in extracurricular activities. Despite personal challenges, LeeAnne remains dedicated to creating a better future for her family through her education and career in aviation maintenance.
Colin Crader, of Clemson, a dedicated student in the Aircraft Maintenance Technology program at Greenville Technical College, has achieved significant milestones. Since starting the program in Fall 2023, Crader has maintained perfect attendance and passed his general written exam. He has also been accepted into the PSA Airlines Maintenance Student Pathway Program and earned his ASE Refrigerant Recycling/Recapture certification. Crader plans to take his airframe exams in April 2025 and his powerplant exams in February 2026, aiming to start his own Aircraft on Ground business in the future.
John Gay, of Jasper, an exceptional student at Polaris Tech, has shown remarkable growth and passion in their Aerospace Program. Known for his enthusiasm and keen aptitude for both theoretical and practical aerospace concepts, John stands out among his peers. He plans to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, renowned for its prestigious aviation programs, where he will study aeronautical science to become a pilot. Beyond academics, John is recognized for his outstanding character, leadership skills and dedication to helping others, making him a deserving candidate for any aviation scholarship.
Karlie Hayes, of Pickens, a standout student in the Aeronautics – Professional Pilot degree program at Charleston Southern University, has demonstrated exceptional potential as a future commercial pilot and leader. One of only two professional pilot students in the prestigious Honors Program, Karlie excels despite a demanding course load and rigorous flight training. Known for her intellectual curiosity, preparation and performance both in the classroom and on the flight line, Karlie aims to become a cadet for Republic Airlines. Her long-term goal is to fly for a major airline like Southwest or Delta, eventually becoming an international wide-body captain.
Oswaldo Trejo, of Jasper, a valedictorian for the class of 2024 at Hardeeville Junior and Senior High School, will be the first in his family to attend college this fall. He plans to pursue a degree in aerospace engineering at the College of Charleston. Oswaldo stands out as one of the most dedicated and driven students, consistently demonstrating a high level of intelligence, curiosity and commitment to excellence. In addition to his outstanding academic performance, he possesses remarkable leadership skills and a genuine passion for aviation and technology. He actively engages in aerospace engineering, having attended the Jasper County Career and Advanced Technology Education Center as well as the Technical College of the Lowcountry. Oswaldo dreams of working for NASA or The Boeing Company and aims to become an aerospace engineering instructor.
SCAA’s scholarship program is open to South Carolina residents who attend, or will attend, an educational institution or flight school inside or outside the state. The application period for the next program cycle will open in Spring 2025.
SCAA actively promotes and encourages aviation and airport development to meet air transportation needs and assist the state in achieving economic development goals. Its membership is comprised of S.C. airports, aviation industry partners and aviators across the state. For more information, please visit scaaonline.com.
The Idaho Division of Aeronautics held their annual ACE (Aviation Career Education) Academy June 26-28, presenting aviation career options to 32 Idaho high schoolers from around the state.
“After months of planning and coordinating, the ACE Academy was a great success!” said coordinator Shelly Towner. “The teamwork was one of the best I have experienced – it all worked like a well-oiled machine.”
Participants were able to visit the Boise Air Traffic Control Tower, utilize Mission Aviation Fellowship’s flight simulator, and tour the Boise Airport where the biggest draw was seeing the bomb-detecting dog in action. Students toured the TSA baggage area, and viewed the ongoing expansion project from the top of the parking garage.
Students also visited the Idaho National Guard to learn about aviation career fields in Rotary Wing and Fixed Wing aircraft. They visited Skywest to explore airline careers, and Western Aircraft to explore turboprop and business jet aviation. The National Weather Service covered aviation weather services, and at the National Interagency Fire Center the kids saw how smokejumpers, drones and aircraft are used to fight fires. The Idaho 99s taught a mini-ground school, T-Craft Aero Club discussed opportunities to train in a flying club, and our 12 volunteer pilots took the kids flying.
Many participants were enthusiastic in their review of the 2024 ACE Academy:
“This camp was so awesome! I loved every minute of it and I really wish I could do it again next year. I want to be a pilot and I learned so much. Thank you!” – Mason
“I am grateful I was selected for this unique, exciting, and fun opportunity. – Nick
“Thank you so much for the opportunity!” – Anon
“Thank you so much for putting ACE together! I had a great time and learned a lot.” – Anon
“All of the instructors were so good, and they really made us feel like it was something amazing to be a part of and the way they were so passionate about it really inspired me!” – Anon
Applications are now open for IADA Foundation Business Aviation Scholarships. These scholarships were created by the International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA) to aid and inspire the next generation of business aviation professionals through educational opportunities, creating gateways for young people to flourish in the industry.
“The IADA Foundation is now accepting applications from qualified students attending colleges and universities offering course work in Corporate Aviation Management, Aerodynamics, Aircraft Systems, Aviation Safety, Finance, Business Marketing, Economics and/or studies that relate to Aviation Business/Management,” said Johnny Foster, IADA Foundation Board Chair, and President & CEO of OGARAJETS. “Scholarships are monetary awards between $1,000 and $5,000,” he added.
Through a new sponsorship relationship with Alpha Eta Rho, the IADA Foundation has increased the approved universities in the scholarship program to 63 colleges that have aviation programs, and the process is still open to consider students from other schools with such programs. Alpha Eta Rho is a professional collegiate aviation fraternity founded in 1929 to bring together students that have a common interest in the field of aviation.
Students seeking scholarships can now apply directly online to the IADA Foundation at International Aircraft Dealers Association | IADA. Applications are now open and will close Sept. 1. For a list of currently approved colleges go to International Aircraft Dealers Association | IADA.
This award is available to full-time, undergraduate (freshman through senior) students (taking a minimum of 12 hours/semester) and graduate students. Applicants must have a 3.0 minimum cumulative GPA on a 4.0 grade scale (high school GPA for freshman applicants).
In its mission to become a leading institution for aerospace and technology talent development, Kansas State University Salina has appointed Tysen Pina as the new department head of aviation.
Tysen Pina
As the department head, Pina will oversee the aviation program, focusing on expanding industry-relevant academic offerings, strengthening alumni and industry partnerships, enhancing safety management and strategically positioning the program for future success.
Having retired from the U.S. Air Force, Pina brings more than 21 years of aviation experience. His expertise spans program management, process improvement, strategic planning, aviation training and leadership. Pina plans to leverage K-State Salina’s rich aviation history of excellence and build upon the foundation that has already been laid over the past 33 years under the Kansas State University system and previously, with the campus leading in aviation training since the 1960s.
“My heart is in all things aviation, building organizations and pouring into people and making them better every day,” said Pina. “I knew that once my time in the Air Force was over, I knew I wanted to be in aviation. When I first met the K-State Salina faculty, their connection and excitement really shone through. This campus and the spirit that it has really motivated me.”
Additionally, as the aviation industry continues to see major transitions in its hiring practices, needs and criteria, K-State Salina is committing itself to supporting all learners through educational offerings that will set its students up to impact the industry.
“We are committed to providing quality education to all learners – whether they are looking for a certificate or associate, bachelor’s or a master’s degree,” said K-State Salina CEO and dean Alysia Starkey. “With Tysen’s focus on safety, excellence and mentorship, K-State Salina graduates will continue to be highly sought-after professionals, ready to excel in the ever-changing industry regardless of their career entry point.”
Pina holds a bachelor’s degree in social sciences from the U.S. Air Force Academy and a master’s degree in business organization and leadership from the University of Kansas.
His distinguished Air Force career includes roles such as commander for the 966th Airborne Air Control Squadron with E-3G AWACS aircraft; director of operations for 16th Airborne Command and Control Squadron with E-8C JSTARS aircraft, wing inspector general with the 116th Air Control Wing; regional engagement strategist for Air Force Central Command in Qatar; and assistant director of operations for the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron at Nellis Air Force Base.
Pina has flown over 100 combat missions. After having moved more than 12 times for his career, he is ecstatic to be able to call Salina home for a long time.
In celebration of the 55th Anniversary of National Moon Day, the Frontiers of Flight Museum will host its 16th Annual Moon Day event. Taking place Saturday, July 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., this enriching and engaging day of space exploration will feature interactive activities, one-of-a-kind exhibits and space-themed presentations for the entire community to enjoy. Tickets for this highly anticipated signature event are on sale now on the Frontiers of Flight Museum’s website.
In 1969, history was made, and the world was changed when Apollo 11 became the first spaceflight to land humans on the Moon. This monumental milestone, known as National Moon Day, marked the beginning of endless possibilities for space exploration and has been commemorated by the Frontiers of Flight Museum since 2009.
“We are extremely proud to host our annual event to celebrate the past, present and future of space exploration, while inspiring the next generation of space explorers,” said Abigail Erickson-Torres, CEO of the Frontiers of Flight Museum. “It is the perfect day to explore the history and progress of space and aviation, in a fun and welcoming environment.”
For the first time ever, attendees of the 16th Annual Moon Day event will have an exclusive opportunity to view a unique exhibition called “Legends of Space Innovation: David Clark Company,” which will feature two rare prototype space suits and headsets designed and manufactured by the David Clark Company based in Worcester, MA. On loan from the David Clark Company, the pieces are the newest addition to the Frontiers of Flight Museum and will be available for viewing through December 31, 2024. Additionally, art and exploration will unite with the premier of a commissioned life-sized painting of 10 Apollo astronauts by Polish-born Maciej Maga, who has lived in Dallas nearly 20 years. The painting will be available for viewing through October 31, 2024.
This year’s event will also feature a special keynote presentation from Colonel Gregory H. Johnson, retired US Air Force officer, aerospace engineer, and NASA astronaut. He’ll share colorful and inspiring stories from his aviation and spaceflight experiences including his time as pilot of the STS-123 Endeavour. The STS-123 Endeavour crew performed a record five spacewalks and the mission was accomplished in 250 orbits of the Earth, traveling more than 6 million miles in 15 days, 18 hours and 10 minutes.
“The keynote presentation is a highlight for our guests as we have hosted several astronauts throughout the years,” said Rosalie Wade, Director of Education for the Frontiers of Flight Museum. “It is truly an honor to offer our visitors new one-of-a-kind components to our signature Moon Day event and to have Colonel Johnson share insight and wisdom from his astounding career.”
The Frontiers of Flight Museum’s 16th Annual Moon Day is a public event that focuses on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) and space-themed activities and displays for the young, young at heart and avid aviation aficionados. Additional highlights include a book signing by Jim Keyes, author of “Education is Freedom: The Future is in Your Hands,” as well as over 20 exhibitors, seven speakers, autograph signings, educational hands-on activities, food trucks and music. Guest speakers will also discuss a variety of topics ranging from “Pioneering the Path to the Moon” to “The Voyager Spacecraft: Humanity’s Farthest Journey.”
While enjoying the many Moon Day festivities, families are encouraged to explore the rich diversity of aviation and flight history throughout the two-level 100,000-square-foot space. The Frontiers of the Flight Museum is home to more than 40 aircraft and space vehicles including the Apollo 7 command module, 16 galleries and displays and more than 35,000 historic artifacts. Among the many exhilarating exhibitions are “Dreamers and Early Flyers,” “Lighter than Air,” “Modern Air Power” and “Golden Age.” In addition, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts can earn badges and K-12 Educators can earn CPE credits while attending the Moon Day event.
Tickets to attend the 16th Annual Moon Day event are $15 for children and $20 for adults and are free for children two years of age and younger. To purchase tickets, learn more and view the complete schedule of activities, please visit www.flightmuseum.com/events/moonday.
The Frontiers of Flight’s 16th Annual Moon Day event is made possible through gracious sponsors: The Dan and Gena Hamilton Family Fund and PlainsCapital Bank.
The National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF) and RTCA, Inc. are delighted to announce Jackie Blumer, Earth/Space Jr. High Teacher at Greenville Jr. High School STEM in Greenville, IL, as the distinguished recipient of the Professional Development Scholarship Opportunity for Educators.
The scholarship recognizes and supports outstanding educators committed to advancing aviation and technology education. Ms. Blumer’s exemplary dedication to her students and innovative teaching methods in the field of aviation education set her apart as a deserving educator. Ms. Blumer inspires curiosity with her comprehensive approach to the concept of flight. Her dedication to inspiring the future aviation workforce is evident through her work as the K-12 STEM Coordinator for the St. Louis region with the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA).
“We are deeply impressed by Ms. Blumer’s unwavering commitment to STEM and Aerospace education,” said Aimee Maruyama, President and CEO at NAHF. “Her innovative teaching methods and dedication to creating a dynamic learning environment really stood out! This scholarship is a testament to her outstanding work and dedication to nurturing the next generation of aviation innovators!”
“We are thrilled to collaborate with the National Aviation Hall of Fame to support educators like Jackie Blumer,” said Carol Huegel, President and CEO at RTCA. “Her exceptional contributions reinforce our shared goal of preparing the next generation of aviation innovators and leaders. At a time when the aviation industry faces significant workforce challenges, RTCA is committed to being part of the solution by supporting outstanding educators in their continued professional growth and development. We proudly support such an outstanding educator in their continued professional growth and development.”
“As a lifelong educator passionate about aviation and space, I am profoundly honored to receive the 2024 RTCA Professional Development Scholarship,” said Jackie Blumer. “This generous support from the National Aviation Hall of Fame and RTCA will allow me to inspire my students with the wonders of aviation history and the boundless opportunities in the field. I eagerly look forward to creating engaging and impactful learning experiences and sharing the progress and achievements my students gain as a result.”
The scholarship program supports both organizations’ core values, including demonstrating community support through enhanced STEM/STEAM educational opportunities, particularly in underserved areas, focusing on aviation and aerospace.
The National Aviation Hall of Fame and RTCA congratulate Jackie Blumer and express their appreciation to all educators who applied for the Professional Development Scholarship Opportunity.
The National Aeronautic Association (NAA) has announced that the Cosmosphere, a world-class aerospace educational resource, is the NAA’s first Institutional Member. This partnership strengthens the NAA’s mission and works to enhance the Cosmosphere’s educational resources and industry connections.
An interactive presentation at the Cosmosphere.
“The NAA is the oldest national aviation organization in the US, with a mission of advancing the art, sport, and science of aviation and spaceflight,” said Cosmosphere President and CEO Jim Remar. “Given the Cosmosphere’s mission of inspiring the future through space exploration, it is a natural fit for the Cosmosphere to join the NAA.”
The Cosmosphere, located in Hutchinson, KS, is an international science education center and space museum. Previously known as the Kansas Cosmosphere, the site houses over 13,000 spaceflight artifacts—the largest combined collection of U.S. and Russian spaceflight artifacts worldwide. The Cosmosphere’s SpaceWorks division has restored flown U.S. spacecraft for museums and exhibits across the globe, including the Apollo 13 Command Module Odyssey and the Liberty Bell 7.
“The NAA’s Institutional Members receive opportunities that enable engagement beyond traditional channels,” said Amy Spowart, NAA President and CEO. “This new category exposes our diverse membership and offers a space that unites all aviation and aerospace groups. Institutional members also support the NAA by ensuring a meaningful tie with the future. ”
Institutional Membership includes the following benefits:
Recognition for Support: Logo and hyperlink on naa.aero and authorization to share NAA affiliation (logo, etc.) on the institutional website.
Networking Opportunities: Exclusive networking opportunities that provide a platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and potential partnerships.
Personal Invitations and Priority Exposure at NAA Events: Special invites, access, and seating at NAA events.
Research and Teaching Support: Unrestricted use of NAA webinars and records database for enhanced learning resources.
Scholarship Opportunities: Priority access to NAA’s directory of scholarship opportunities from NAA Corporate, Affiliate, and Aero Club members.
Award Selection Opportunities: Eligibility to serve on selection committees for prestigious recognitions, including the Robert J. Collier Trophy, Frank G. Brewer Trophy and Wesley McDonald Distinguished Statesman and Stateswoman of Aviation Awards.
Designated Membership: Each level of Institutional Membership includes individual memberships for their use.
“We are thrilled that the Cosmosphere supports and values what the NAA offers, and we look forward to fully engaging and serving them,” added Spowart.
The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) announced that the team from Raisbeck Aviation High School in Tukwila, Washington, is the winner of the 2024 GAMA Aviation Design Challenge. The team from Porter High School in Porter, Texas, was awarded second place and the team from Gonzaga College High School in Washington D.C. was awarded third place.
2024 GAMA Aviation Design Challenge first-place team from Raisbeck Aviation High School (from left to right: Kenji Gonzales, August Johnson, Colin Renberg, Gavin Johnson, Alex Mill, Colin Harrison, Oliver Swanson, AJ Poon and Emilie Woo; not pictured: Charles Atchinson and Brent Jansen).
“Once again, the teams participating in the GAMA Aviation Design Challenge continue to amaze us with their dedication and enthusiasm for aviation and unique perspectives on aircraft design. We congratulate the Raisbeck Aviation High School team for their outstanding first-place submission and also recognize the teams from Porter High School and Gonzaga College High School for their respective second and third-place submissions. We applaud all the schools for participating and are particularly proud of the hard work that they all put into their submissions. We look forward to furthering the reach of the program and sparking student interest into the rewarding opportunities within general aviation,” said Pete Bunce, GAMA President and CEO.
Over 60 high school teams, representing 28 states, entered the 2024 GAMA Aviation Design Challenge. During the first portion of the challenge, teams used complimentary “Fly to Learn” curriculum to learn the principles of flight and airplane design, consistent with national STEM standards. During the second portion of the competition, teams applied their knowledge to virtually modify an airplane design and compete in a fly-off using X-Plane software.
This year’s mission was to modify a Cessna 208 Caravan to fly from Homer to Seaward, Alaska, as quickly and efficiently as possible. The teams needed to design their aircraft to maximize speed and efficiency and successfully navigate between two remote locations with high terrain. Judges scored the teams based on performance parameters, a checklist of steps involved in the demonstration flight and a video submission in which the team summarized what they learned.
Members of the first-place team from Raisbeck Aviation High School include Charles Atchison, Kenji Gonzales, Colin Harrison, Brent Jansen, August Johnson, Gavin Johnson, Alex Mill, AJ Poon, Colin Renberg, Oliver Swanson and Emile Woo. Their entry optimized the aircraft to carry a maximum payload in the shortest time with an elaborate design process which included low two-section wings with fast airfoils, a streamlined fuselage and increased horsepower. The team’s first-place prize includes a CubCrafters Manufacturing Experience, demonstration flight opportunities and much more.
When asked about this year’s competition, the Raisbeck Aviation team advisors said, “The GAMA Challenge is one of the highlights of the school year for team members at Raisbeck. This year’s team really had a fun leaning experience with the bigger turbine powered Caravan flying in Alaska. They were really excited to learn their design had won first place and are looking forward to the CubCrafters Manufacturing Experience.” With the team adding, “No plane, no gain.”
The second-place entry from Porter High School illustrated an intricate design with an extended high-aspect ratio wing, larger propeller, reduced engine RPM, T-Tail design and an airfoil shaped fuselage. They will receive a two-day Redbird Flight Simulations STEM Lab.
The third-place entry from Gonzaga College High School demonstrated an intricate design and testing process with slightly decreased wing area, decreased horsepower, a four-blade propeller and an aerodynamic fuselage to reduce drag. They will receive one-year ForeFlight Performance Plus subscriptions and a flight simulator experience with Joby Aviation.
The 2024 Aviation Design Challenge sponsoring companies include Bombardier, Camp Systems, Cirrus Aircraft, Click Bond, CubCrafters, Embraer, ForeFlight, Garmin, Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, Hartzell Propeller, Jet Aviation, Joby Aviation, Pratt & Whitney Canada, Redbird Flight, Signature Aviation, Textron Aviation and Wipaire. Sponsors provide financial support for the curriculum, software and prizes as well as in-kind donations.
“We are grateful for the tremendous support of the program’s sponsors – their commitment to furthering youth outreach allows us to be able to offer and grow this program and its incredible experiences.” Bunce said.
During the National Business Aviation Association’s (NBAA’s) 2024 NBAA White Plains Regional Forum, the Barrington Irving Technical Training School (BITTS) announced its first set of graduates from its local program, all of whom are ready to take positions at area facilities for two leading Fixed Base Operators (FBOs).
The announcement comes just months after the BITTS organization expanded from its Miami, FL base to an additional installation in New York’s Westchester County. Read more about the new BITTS location in New York.
Founded and led by Capt. Barrington Irving, a Guinness World Record-breaking pilot and NBAA American Spirit Award recipient, the organization provides technical training for students with diverse backgrounds, teaching them the hands-on skills needed to excel in aviation and other industries. NBAA is a supporting partner of the training school.
In his remarks at today’s NBAA White Plains Regional Forum, Irving noted that the first group of five student graduates at the school’s Mt. Vernon, NY, facility are preparing for interviews with Atlantic Aviation and Signature Flight Support, having completed a 12-week workforce development program focused on FBO training.
The announcement was met with applause from local civic officials, including Mount Vernon, NY, Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard and Thom Kleiner, the executive director of the Westchester-Putnam Workforce Development Board.
Mt. Vernon’s Management Services Commissioner Juan Perez and Youth Bureau Deputy Director Dena Williams, Westchester County Youth Program Director Liz Oliveto and Ranell Ogilvie from State Sen. Jamaal Bailey’s office were also on hand to congratulate the graduates.
“With our partners and our team, we have created something that is helping more people achieve their professional dreams through business aviation,” Irving said. “I couldn’t be more proud to see our goal come to life through these students.”
“The business aviation community understands the pressing need to attract, develop, retain and promote the next generation of industry professionals,” NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen said. “Barrington Irving’s pioneering program was once a dream, but it is now inspiring young people to be a part of an exciting industry with boundless opportunities. We applaud Barrington for his leadership of this one-of-a-kind training school, and we are honored to support its mission.”
The Barrington Irving Technical Training School was opened at Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport in 2023 with the support of Bombardier, Miami-Dade County, NBAA and other organizations. It is part of Irving’s Flying Classroom, a pre-K-12 STEM+ program.
Last December, BITTS graduated its first 15 students and landed them careers worth almost $1 million in salaries. The school has quickly added three new training centers – two in Florida at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and Pompano Beach Airpark, and the Mt. Vernon, NY, operation announced in late February 2024.
