By Amy Whelan, EAA 1283566
My name is Amy Whelan. I grew up in Northern California where I was very active in sports such as soccer, golf, softball, and track and field (disc and shot put). I am a lifetime member of Girl Scouts and an active member of EAA and EAA Chapter 1541. Currently, I’m a freshman at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) in Daytona Beach, Florida, majoring in aeronautical science and minoring in airport operations.
I earned my private pilot certificate while still in high school with the help of my local EAA chapter. I was EAA Chapter 1541’s first Ray Aviation scholar. Since starting at ERAU, I have completed my instrument rating and I’m currently working on my commercial certificate. My plan is to continue to obtain my multi-engine rating and CFI/CFII. My ultimate goal is to become an airline or military pilot after graduation.
I became interested in aviation at a young age after attending air shows with my family. My enthusiasm in aviation grew and I fell in love with the idea of flying. It was not until my 16th birthday that I actually flew in a small airplane for the first time, and I knew from that moment on that I wanted to pursue a career in flying.
Although I did not come from an aviation background, with the support of my family and my local EAA chapter I became very involved and passionate about aviation. EAA and Chapter 1541 gave me many opportunities to experience and explore aviation such as Young Eagles flights, Air Academy sponsorship, a ground school scholarship, and the Jack Burnham Post-Secondary Scholarship which I am so thankful for. I have had the ability to help my chapter and the community in ways such as starting a program called Av8tors to work with youth in our chapter, leading groups at our aviation summer camp and airport fun days, sharing my passion through involvement with members, and offering my time and talent by volunteering whenever needed.
EAA has taught me so much and I plan to stay involved and share my experiences to help the next generation of aviation enthusiasts. I would like to thank EAA, the Ray Foundation, EAA Chapter 1541 members, and especially my family for all the opportunities and support you have given me.