Leah Murphy Awarded Transition Training Scholarship Valued At $12,000

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott Campus student Leah Murphy has been awarded the 2018 MD 500 Transition Training Scholarship by MD Helicopters, Inc. This unique training opportunity has a value of approximately $12,000.

The MD 500 is an advanced, turbine-powered helicopter that most students are not yet qualified to fly. The week-long, one-on-one training course is held at the MD Helicopters global headquarters and production facility in Mesa, Ariz. There, students learn helicopter systems, emergency procedures and how to fly the aircraft.

"Receiving the MD 500 Transition Training Scholarship is an incredible privilege," said Murphy. "I am excited to gain the knowledge and flight experience that this scholarship will provide me."

In addition to a current or impending Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) rating, the scholarship applicants are required to maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.0, have a first or second class FAA-medical certificate, and submit two letters of recommendation and a video essay explaining how the transition would help launch their career.

"MD Helicopters is an incredible and long-time supporter of the Embry-Riddle Helicopter Program through scholarships, factory visits, training materials and industry feedback," said Dawn Groh, Embry-Riddle Assistant Professor of Helicopter Operations. "The connection and continual exchange of ideas with industry is a crucial element for our students' success and enables us to be highly responsive in our training and curriculum to industry needs."

"Every year we are impressed and inspired by the quality of the applications we receive for this scholarship," said Lynn Tilton, Chief Executive Officer for MD Helicopters, Inc. "Embry-Riddle is clearly cultivating a talented, next generation of rotorcraft pilots. As a woman-owned company, I am particularly proud to present this year's award to Leah. She had an impressive application packet and has a contagious passion for becoming a future MD helicopter pilot."

The scholarship award announcement was made on February 28, 2018, at HAI Heli-Expo in Las Vegas, NV.

(Image provided with ERAU news release)

FMI: prescott.erau.edu/degrees/bachelor/aeronautical-science-rotary/index.html, www.mdhelicopters.com