Five scholarships ranging from $3,000 to $10,000 will be awarded to Aviation Explorers this year by the National Aviation Exploring Committee. These scholarships are intended to encourage Aviation Explorers to study the technologies and acquire the skills necessary for an aviation career. Aviation Exploring is a youth development program open to young men and women between the ages of 14-20.

The five separate scholarships to be awarded in 2006 include a scholarship for a course of study leading to an aviation profession ($10,000); Avionics ($3000); Pilot training for Recreational or Private certificate ($3000); Maintenance ($3000) and Aviation Management ($3000).

In order to qualify for one of the five scholarships, an individual must be currently registered and active in an Aviation Explorer post. If the applicant is under 18 years of age, parental or guardian approval is required. In addition to a completed application, three letters of recommendation are required along with a 500-word educational plan that explains how the applicant will finance his or her goal for a career in aviation.

Gold Level sponsors for the 2006 Aviation Explorer scholarships include Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), Cessna Foundation, Frasca International, Inc., Garmin and Sporty's Pilot Shop. Numerous other companies and individuals have donated additional funds to finance these scholarships.

The Aviation Exploring National Committee recognizes the variety of rewarding aviation opportunities, and that qualified and motivated Aviation Explorers should be given encouragement and assistance in choosing a career in aviation. Through the years, the National Aviation Exploring Committee has been a loyal and generous supporter of projects designed to promote aviation to the general public and especially the youth. This long standing dedication to the aviation community continues with the National Aviation Explorer Scholarship Program.

Specific requirements for each scholarship as well as applications for these scholarships are available to download at www.aviationexploring.org and are due to the local council office for approval by March 31, 2006. Scholarships will be awarded by July 1, 2006.

FMI: www.aviationexploring.org