Women in Aviation International (WAI) has officially opened applications for its 2027 scholarship program, offering members career training across various fields, including piloting, engineering, maintenance, dispatch, and drone operation.
The program, which also supports established professionals seeking career advancement, notably does not require applicants to be of traditional school age to be eligible.
According to WAI, there are more than 50 scholarships valued at over $200,000. The 2027 offerings include two Harvard Emerging Leaders professional development courses—on campus in May 2027 and online in June 2027.
This year there are more than 10 offerings for flight training, space engineering, aviation management and aircraft maintenance.
Applicants are encouraged to periodically check for new scholarships, as it is not uncommon for them to be added. They can apply for up to three scholarships per year.
Since 1995, WAI has awarded some $17 million in scholarships, which often resulted in the recipient obtaining a job in their chosen field.
“WAI believes in shaping the future of our industry by investing in the people who will meet the needs of our growing global aviation workforce,” said WAI CEO Lynda Coffman. “Our annual scholarship program is one of the most meaningful benefits of WAI membership, and we are deeply grateful for the generosity of our scholarship funders and supporters.”
Qualifications
To qualify for a scholarship, the applicant must be a WAI member as of August 30. Applications must be submitted to WAI by 11:59 p.m. EDT on September 1. Winners will be notified by December 15.
Recipients will be awarded during the 38th Annual Women in Aviation International Conference in Savannah, Georgia, on February 25-27.
Details of each scholarship, requirements, FAQ, plus tips for submitting a winning application can be found here.