By Mark Beck, EAA 312875
A Columbia City, Indiana, woman has received a scholarship to assist with flight training in the pursuit of her private pilot certificate. On Thursday, November 11, EAA Chapter 2 of Fort Wayne, Indiana, announced that Emma Coville was the first recipient of this $1,000 award. The presentation was made at DeKalb County Airport (KGWB), where the chapter was holding its regular meeting and hearing a special speaker. Coincidentally, the speaker that evening was Ms. Coville’s flight instructor, Lara Gaerte of Century Aviation located at DeKalb County Airport.
The Youth Aviation Training Scholarship, establish by EAA Chapter 2 earlier this year, seeks to award these scholarships based upon several criteria. The successful candidate must be a youth or young adult up through age 20, have demonstrated academic achievement compatible with successful aviation skills, have begun pilot training and achieved at least the level of student pilot and soloed, be active in promoting aviation such as through Young Eagles and other EAA Chapter 2 activities, among other things.
The scholarship selection committee noted that Emma demonstrates a firm grasp of aeronautical knowledge, exemplary communication skills, and leadership qualities in her presentation to other youth during Young Eagles ground school activities. Emma’s personal letter cited numerous examples of how she has pursued her aviation dreams, from watching airplanes as a young child, to Young Eagles flights and serving in the Young Eagles ground crew, to part time and volunteer jobs in aviation, and beginning flight training. From her many outstanding references it is evident that she also has a firm grasp on the reality of how to make dreams come true by focused, dedicated planning and hard work. Emma, currently a college student, hopes to use her pilot certificate as a step toward a future career in aviation. EAA Chapter 2 encourages and promotes sport aviation and aeronautical education in northeast Indiana, and Emma Coville personifies that mission. Chapter 2 is honored to assist her in obtaining a pilot certificate.
More information about Chapter 2 and Young Eagles events can be found on the website www.eaa2.org, on Facebook, or email president@eaa2.org.