The Blake Chapman Young Eagles Flight Scholarship was created by a group of individuals who wanted to give students in Teton County, ID the opportunity to learn how to fly. This scholarship provides up to $10,000 towards the cost of a Private Pilot Certificate – including instruction, flight time and books. Recipients will incur some fees, as the total cost of obtaining a license is approximately $13,000.
Applicants must be at least 17 years of age by June 1st of the year in which they apply. Students must demonstrate good academic standing, community service/involvement, financial need, and a commitment to becoming a pilot. Participants will need to be available June through the end of August, 4-5 days a week for training.
2016 scholarship awardee, Ethan Marcum, stopped by the Community Foundation this summer to inform how this grant has propelled his current aviation career. With the experience garnered through this scholarship he was able to graduate from Utah State University’s Professional Pilot program early and go on to instruct to reach his next set of minimum flight hours. Afterwards he was hired at SkyWest Airlines and has been flying as professional pilot since, with a goal of flying for a major airline. Beginning his flight journey as a 17-year-old Young Eagle participant, Ethan emphasized, “I have accomplished my dream, which all started thanks to you!”
This year’s Blake Chapman Young Eagles Flight Scholarship application period closes Tuesday, February 20, 2024 at 5 PM. Access the scholarship application and read more about Ethan’s journey at www.cftetonvalley.org. As a Community Foundation, scholarships are an important part of programming. For further questions or information on Foundation scholarships, please call 208-354-0230.