ARLINGTON, Va., Feb. 20, 2020 — PenFed Credit Union and the Air Force Association (AFA) are teaming up to fund pilot training toward a private pilot's license for three AFA members at a facility of their choice. Sponsored by PenFed Credit Union, the three $10,000 scholarships are applicable to aircraft rental and instructor fees and will be paid directly to the training facility on the student's behalf, PenFed said.
“One of my life’s most memorable moments was my first flight lesson at age 15,” said PenFed President & CEO James Schenck, who at an early age was inspired to become a Black Hawk pilot and night-vision goggle instructor pilot. “Our nation needs to attract and recruit more future aviators in their formative years. That’s why PenFed is honored to partner with the Air Force Association to encourage an interest in aviation careers—especially among young women.”
Open until April 30, the scholarships are available to current AFA members and no previous flight experience is necessary.
“Part of AFA’s mission is to advance aerospace education, so AFA is in a unique position to help to address the pilot shortage in the U.S. by developing these key partnerships to help individuals achieve their private pilot license,” said AFA President Lt Gen (Ret.) Bruce “Orville” Wright. “Since we encourage students to consider careers in aviation, we must also provide resources. Our Armed Forces need the right quantity and quality of pilots to protect our national security, and as the demand continues to grow, the competition for qualified commercial pilots will become more aggressive. Between PenFed and AFA, we can give our members a head start in their career.”