Virginia aviation career expo scholarships top $388K

ProJet Aviation, a Washington, D.C., area fixed-base operator that prides itself as “the D.C. metro region’s premier private aviation company,” organized the free event. The FBO and its partners have delivered more than $150,000 in scholarships since 2008.

“This money can change a student’s life,” said organizer Julie O’Brien. “We provide opportunity and mentorship to students that may have never explored all of these possibilities.” This year a multitude of aviation organizations have pledged hundreds of thousands of dollars in awards for education or flight training.

The event showcases aviation and aerospace careers to young adults ages 16 to 22 as they make plans for their future. Representatives from more than 60 aviation groups will participate in keynote presentations, live demonstrations, and static displays. Students can talk one-on-one with industry experts and get “up close and personal” looks at aviation occupations that are in demand worldwide, O’Brien added.

Guest speakers include the NTSB’s Heidi Kemner, a local pilot who specializes in aviation investigations, and former U.S. Navy SEAL, author, flight instructor, aerial applicator, and retired assault helicopter pilot Michael Rutledge. Aviation entrepreneur Jamail Larkins, U.S. Navy Fighter Pilot Lt. Meagan Varley Flannigan, and other mentors have addressed students and their parents at previous aviation career day expos.

Attendees can also see demonstrations by the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team, the Metro Washington Airport Authority’s K–9 team, drone flying by the V1 Aviation, and an aerial application flyby from the National Agricultural Aviation Association’s Jeff Corman and Sons.

O’Brien said expo organizers were “committed" to helping students explore aviation career opportunities.