We had another great turnout for last year’s scholarship cycle with forty-three applications being submitted. Through your donations we were fortunate to be able to award ten scholarships to some deserving and well-qualified applicants. In this month’s Scholarship Corner, we’ll introduce some of our 2026 scholarship recipients.
2026 Scholarship Recipients
Katherine Binion – Chandler-Gilbert Community College
I am currently pursuing a career in aircraft maintenance with the goal of becoming a highly skilled aviation maintenance professional and certificated A&P mechanic who contributes to both operational safety and long-term reliability across the aviation industry. I currently work at Setnix LLC, a repair station in Tempe, Arizona, where I serve as a Lead Wire Harness Technician. Through this experience and the education, I am receiving, I have had the opportunity to develop hands-on technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and a strong appreciation for the responsibility that maintenance professionals carry in keeping aircraft safe and airworthy. My long-term objective is to continue advancing within the aviation industry while remaining actively involved in the General Aviation community through service and advocacy for safety and maintenance excellence.
The Arizona Pilots Association scholarship plays a critical role in helping me achieve these goals by easing the financial burden of my education and allowing me to remain focused on developing the technical knowledge required in this field. I am sincerely grateful to APA for this opportunity and look forward to contributing to both Commercial and General Aviation for years to come.
Corby Running – University of North Dakota
My name is Corby Running, and I am deeply honored to be selected as a recipient of the Arizona Pilots Association Scholarship for a second consecutive year. Since receiving this award last year, I have made significant strides in my training at Chandler Gilbert Community College. I am proud to share that this past fall, I successfully completed my Commercial Pilot License as well as my multi-engine add-on rating. These milestones, built upon the foundation of my Navy service and my initial flight training, have brought me much closer to my goal of becoming a professional airline pilot. This spring, I am embarking on the next phase of my training: earning my Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificate.
My goal is to stay in Arizona to instruct, giving back to the local aviation community that has supported me so generously. The continued support from the Arizona Pilots Association is incredibly meaningful; it directly alleviates the financial costs of these advanced ratings and allows me to maintain total focus on my transition from student to instructor. I am profoundly grateful to the APA for their ongoing belief in my potential and for helping me turn my passion for flight into a career.
Elliana Nunez – Aviation Explorers Post 352
My name is Elli Nunez, I am currently working on my Private Pilot License with the Aviation Explorers Post 352. I invest a lot of my time giving back to the aviation community through volunteering and involvement, so receiving this scholarship from the Arizona Pilots Association is truly a blessing. Working full time at Cunningham Aviation, I have been self funding all of my aviation training, helping me to understand the investment beginning a career in aviation is. This scholarship directly helps me continue my training and progress toward earning my license, and it means a great deal to have that support returned to me. I am extremely grateful for this opportunity and for APA’s investment in my future as a pilot.
Aiden Nelson – Chandler-Gilbert Community College – Aviation Maintenance Technology
I am deeply appreciative of being chosen to receive the Arizona Pilots Association Scholarship. Your investment in my education represents far more than financial assistance – it demonstrates your belief in the next generation of aviation professionals.
Your generosity motivates me to excel not only in my studies but also in my continued commitment to giving back to Arizona's aviation community through mentoring and volunteer service. I am committed to honoring this opportunity by working diligently toward my goals and eventually contributing to the safety and advancement of our industry. Thank you for making my educational aspirations more achievable and for your continued support.
More to come next month and thank you again for your generous support in helping APA build the next generation of Arizona aviation professionals.
Chris