KANSAS CITY (Sept. 22, 2023) – James Marshall and Jesus Velazco, students at the Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM) in Kansas City, have been awarded $2,500 scholarships by Kansas City Business Aviation Association (KCBAA). The KCBAA Scholarship is awarded annually to students pursuing a career in aviation maintenance and is open to any student enrolled in an accredited aviation maintenance technician program.
To be considered for the scholarship, applicants submitted two essays detailing what most captivates them about a career in Corporate or Business Aviation and how the scholarship would benefit the students and their families. Selected finalists appeared in person for interviews with the scholarship committee, and the winners were selected from an impressive group of finalists.
The winning students expressed joy and appreciation to KCBAA for the financial support provided by the scholarship. “Business aviation has always been the area I have been interested in,” said James Marshall. “This was the first scholarship I have ever applied for and won! This scholarship helps cut my out-of-pocket expenses, so I can provide more for my daughter Sophia.”
Jesus Velazco expressed similar sentiments, saying, “I was very surprised when I heard I won this scholarship. I have never received a scholarship before, and this will allow me to save up my Veterans Administration (VA) benefits to further my education in aviation after this program.”
AIM was also appreciative of KCBAA’s contributions to the financial needs of the winning students. Dr. Joel English, Executive Vice President of AIM’s 15 campuses nationwide, stated, “Higher education is most meaningful when we can bring together community and business leaders to support our students financially and occupationally. We thank Kansas City Business Aviation Association’s longstanding tradition of supporting young tradespeople as they enter the workforce, and we are so happy for James and Jesus as they complete their education with a reduced debt load to join the professional community of aviation maintenance.” AIM hopes to continue to work with KCBAA and the growing aerospace community in Kansas City through workforce development opportunities like the KSBAA Scholarship.
