We had another great turnout for the 2025 scholarship cycle with forty-three applications received. As was the case last year, the overall quality of the scholarship applications was impressive. In past years, the career objectives for many of the applicants focused on becoming professional aviators. However, we are seeing an increase in students pursuing careers in aviation maintenance technology which is very encouraging.
The scholarship committee puts in a lot of effort in November/December to review applications and make final recommendations. In the end analysis, we awarded a total of ten scholarships. Scholarships are an important part of APA’s mission, and it is very encouraging to see the memberships continued generosity and commitment to the program – thank you!
Here is a quick overview of the 2025 scholarship winners – we will be publishing a more in-depth look at each of them in upcoming editions of the newsletter:
Katherine Binion – Katherine is currently attending the Aviation Maintenance Program at CGCC to become an A&P/IA. Katherine also works as a Test Technician at Setnix LLC, a Part 145 repair station, where she specializes in aircraft engine and APU wire harnesses.
Sofia Genova – Sofia is a volunteer at AvPost 352 at Falcon Field and is attending Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC) and the University of North Dakota flight program. Her goal is to become a professional with the airlines. She would like to return to AvPost 352 and volunteer her time as a CFI.
Molly Thompson – Molly is currently attending CGCC and will transition to the University of North Dakota for flight training. She intends to pursue a career as a professional pilot.
Corby Running – Corby is a US Navy veteran and is attending Chandler-Gilbert Community College and the University of North Dakota and is about to embark on his CFI course. Corby’s ultimate career goal is to fly for the airlines.
Aiden Nelson – Aiden is currently attending the Aviation Maintenance Program at CGCC to become an A&P.
Olivia Thiebaut – Olivia is currently attending Perry High School and is working on her PPL at Chandler Air Service. Olivia also received a scholarship through Arizona Soaring, so she has a good foundation in stick and rudder skills from flying gliders. Her career goal is to become a professional pilot.
Eliana Nunez – Eliana is currently attending Mesa Community College and is also a volunteer at AvPost 352 at Falcon Field. She plans to pursue her flight training through the AvPost 352 flight training program with a career goal of becoming a professional pilot.
Jonathan Anderson – Aiden is in his last semester at CGCC in the Aviation Maintenance Program to become an A&P/IA. He will transition the Arizona State University Aviation Management Technology program in the fall.
Moises Basuri – Moises is a US Air Force veteran, and he is currently attending the University of North Dakota flight program. His goal is pursuing a career as a corporate pilot.
Addison Anaya – Addison is currently attending Red Mountain High School and is also a student volunteer at AvPost 352. She plans to pursue her flight training through the AvPost 352 flight training program. Addison’s career goal is to become a professional pilot.
The aviation industry remains strong and continues to grow, and this is reflected in the number of applications that APA receives for the scholarship program. And it is encouraging to see the drive and commitment of the applicants in pursuing aviation careers.
Thank you again for your commitment to helping APA fulfill a key part of our mission.
Fly Safe!
Chris