Program to Assist Alabama Aviation College Students
Republican Women of Coffee County (RWCC), Alabama, recently established two $500 scholarships for Alabama Aviation College students to be used to cover their certification testing fees.
At a February 2019 club meeting, members heard from the Alabama Aviation College recruiter who talked about the success of their graduates, some of whom take jobs starting at $30 hour. The students qualify for Pell Grants and student loans, but these do not cover the fees for certification testing, which the students must complete prior to becoming employed. The recruiter said some of the students complete their two-year course of study, but don't have the money to pay these fees, which can range from $500-$1,000.
Republican Women of Coffee County decided to help, voting to establish two $500 scholarships to be awarded yearly to deserving students.
"One of our goals was to establish a tech school scholarship, because not everyone needs, wants, or can afford a 4-year college," President Johnna Roberts said. "We think tech school students should be supported as much as four-year college students. Graduates of the Alabama Aviation College go on to become successful and productive citizens. Today, the average age of employees in aviation technical positions is 55, so there is a real need for more trained people in these fields."
The club worked with the director of the Aviation College, and it was determined that their scholarship board would make the selection based on merit and need.
"We are proud to announce that the scholarships have been awarded to one male and one female student," Roberts said. "We presented the Aviation College Director Stan Smith with a check for $1,000 at our April meeting."
The first scholarships will be officially presented April 30, 2019, at the Alabama Aviation College's Honors Day.
CAPTION: Pictured left to right at the check presentation are RWCC 1st VP Robin Foy, Alabama Aviation College Director Stan Smith, RWCC President Johnna Roberts, RWCC Chaplain Virginia Howard, and RWCC Sunshine Chairperson Bonnie Gilmore.