Eric Shradar Was President, Team Captain Of 'Flying Billikens'

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) has named Eric J. Shradar as this year's Dr. Harold S. Wood Scholarship recipient. Shradar recently graduated from Parks College of Saint Louis University in St. Louis, MO.

Shradar was the president and team captain of the Flying Billikens -- the school's flight team -- this year, and was key in leading the team to their first national flight team competition appearance in eight years in 2006. He graduated with honors and is a commercial pilot and certified flight instructor.

Throughout his college career, Shradar took a great interest in promoting aviation throughout his community. He volunteers at the Saint Louis Science Center's mission control area where he demonstrates and instructs guests on the center's flight simulator.

GAMA notes Shradar also works with his school's "Future Flies Program" which is designed to introduce under-privileged youth to aviation through simulator and discovery flights.

The scholarship is named in honor of Dr. Harold S. Wood, founder and past executive director of the National Intercollegiate Flying Association (NIFA). Given annually, the honor recognizes a top student enrolled in a NIFA member school that demonstrates academic excellence, promotes aviation on and off campus, and is an active participant in activities and community service outside of aviation.

FMI: www.gama.aero