Junior Instructors Gain Funding Apparatus for Cliding Career

The Soaring Society of America  is accepting applications for its Junior CFI-G Scholarship program, a deal that will provide $3,000 USD for direct training and testing expenses.

Applicants must show an interest in soaring and becoming a flight instructor in gliders, with the full award gated behind the attainment of an FAI Silver Badge or Kolstad Century Award. Glider rated Junior members of the Soaring Society aged 17 to 24 can apply, though the under-18 crowd must have parental consent. Applicants should make a good case through personal statements, letters of recommendation, mentor support of their educational plan, desire to continue participation in gliding and soaring, their financial need, and their promise in other aspects of life along with their application.

Once awarded, the Society will give $2,000, with $1,000 retained until both CFI-G privileges and demonstrated ability are attained. Flight training invoices must be send to the Society's scholarship department, too, with a 2-year time limit for would-be instructors to get things done with. Covered costs include tows, glider rental, instructional costs, and successful exams, but not dues, joining fees, or "other non-training costs." Applications are required by September 30, 2024. For those who don't meet the Junior instructor scholarship standards, the Soaring Society also offers the Kolstad College Scholarship, SSA Discover Soaring Scholarship, Tidewater Soaring Society Scholarship, and a bevy of EAA offerings, too. They seem quite excited to get more young gliding and soaring enthusiasts into the fold, so most of their funding is tied to younger and less-experienced aviators. But for someone who wants to break into the glider game, it's an excellent offer - much better than paying your own way all the way through!

FMI: www.ssa.org