As we look ahead to the next school year, we want to provide an update on how program funding will work and what to expect regarding scholarship availability. This year, we were incredibly fortunate to offer scholarships covering license fees for nearly every program and student outside of Oklahoma and Kansas. Thanks to a variety of funding sources, many students were able to participate without financial barriers. Oklahoma and Kansas have statewide funding models that support aviation programs, and were not recipients of these other funding sources.
For the 2025-2026 school year, we anticipate continued grant funding from many of the same sources. However, with the current focus on reducing the federal budget, it is wise to temper expectations while remaining cautiously optimistic. The expected growth of Choose Aerospace programs also plays a significant role in determining the scope of scholarships available for license fees next year. As participation increases, we must ensure that funding is allocated as effectively as possible. If we find ourselves in a position where more students need funding than available resources can support, we will prioritize proximity to HUD Opportunity Zones (HUDOZ) as a major factor in awarding scholarships. Those who have applied for an FAA workforce grant may already be aware of the importance of HUDOZ proximity in the federal grant process. Choose Aerospace will align with this factor to ensure we are directing support to the communities with the most significant financial need. While we work diligently to secure funding at the national level, we strongly encourage local aviation communities to support their nearby programs, including providing financial assistance for program license fees. Our hope is that every Choose Aerospace program will receive support from the local aviation industry to help sustain and expand aviation education in their communities. To assist with this effort, Choose Aerospace leadership is available for virtual meetings with your community leaders to discuss funding strategies and partnerships. We understand that securing financial support for aviation programs can be a challenge, but we are here to support our partners in making these programs sustainable. The work we are doing together is life-changing for students, opening doors to future careers in aviation and beyond. By ensuring continued access to quality aviation education, we are shaping the next generation of aviation professionals and providing them with opportunities they might not otherwise have. |