Those familiar with the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) know the significant role they played in Texas history, training in the rugged plains of Sweetwater, TX. The WASP embodied courage, dedication, and determination, breaking barriers in aviation during their service. As Ninety-Nines, women pilots, our mission is to promote advancement of aviation through education, scholarships, and mutual support while honoring our unique history and sharing our passion for flight. Our chapter is deeply connected to the WASP legacy, and through the Austin Hill Country Chapter "Spirit of the WASP" Aviation Scholarship we aim to offer an opportunity for aspiring and continuing pilots, ensuring the lasting impact of the WASP contributions to aviation.
We encourage applicants to learn more about the WASP historic contributions, particularly their training in Texas, as we seek recipients who embody that same pioneering spirit.
Scholarship Stipulations – We anticipate a scholarship award of up to $7000. The funds will be managed by the Austin Hill Country Chapter and directly distributed to the flight school or instructor. The funds must be used for aviation training purposes only. The recipient must use the funds within one year from the award date. If any funds remain after the recipient completes their flight training, or if the funds are not used within one year and the recipient does not plan to pursue further certificates or ratings, the remaining funds will be returned to the chapter's scholarship fund.
This scholarship is open to all applicants, with preference given to women residents of Central Texas.
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Required Attachments - in addition to this form:
Please compile the following as one, single document in PDF format only:
- A current resume detailing your education, work, and aviation experience
- Two letters of recommendation from a professional colleague, flight instructor, mentor, or educator
- Copy of aviation-related certifications: current pilot certificate, flight review, medical (if applicable)
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Our mission is to support you in achieving your aviation goals. To ensure a fair and thorough selection process, the application procedure is as follows: Once the application window closes, all submissions will be reviewed and scored based on a rubric developed by our chapter. The top three candidates will be contacted for a virtual interview with a panel of chapter members. The interviews provide an opportunity to personally connect with each finalist. After the interviews, the final scholarship recipient will be selected. All applicants will be notified of their status. The chosen recipient will be assigned a mentor to provide guidance, answer questions, and support them through their certificate or rating. Scholarship funds are good for one year from the date of award.
