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Owen Sweeny

1,595

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Finalist

Bio

Hi, I'm Owen Sweeny, a recent high school graduate honors student with a passion for all things mechanical. When I'm not studying or hitting the books, you can usually find me in my garage or at the race track working on various projects and fine-tuning engines. I love getting my hands dirty and figuring out how things work, especially when it comes to my go-kart. Racing go-karts is one of my favorite hobbies, and I take pride in maintaining and upgrading my kart to keep it in top condition. As well, I am looking forward to attending PIA this fall to dive deeper into working with jet engines! In addition to my love for mechanics and racing, I'm also an avid hockey player. Playing for my school team (and with travel teams since the age of 5) has taught me the importance of teamwork, dedication, and perseverance. Balancing my academic responsibilities with my hobbies can be challenging, but I enjoy the thrill and discipline that come with each of my passions. Whether it's on the track, the ice, or in the classroom, I strive to give my best in everything I do.

Education

Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics

Trade School
2024 - 2025
  • Majors:
    • Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering

St Maria Goretti Catholic Hs

High School
2021 - 2024

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Trade School

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Airlines/Aviation

    • Dream career goals:

      To work in the field of aviation on the ground in the air or both

      Sports

      Ice Hockey

      Varsity
      2022 – 20242 years

      Kart Racing

      Club
      2019 – 20245 years

      Lacrosse

      Varsity
      2021 – 20232 years

      Ice Hockey

      Club
      2010 – 202414 years

      Public services

      • Volunteering

        HYHL — Assisting with Hockey Instruction
        2021 – 2023
      • Volunteering

        United Karting — Instructor
        2023 – Present

      Future Interests

      Volunteering

      Philanthropy

      Track to the Trades
      I am a recent high school honors graduate. I have been accepted to start at Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics in August of 2024 to obtain my FAA Airframe and Powerplant Certification to work on jet engines. Their program will combine my love of all things mechanical with my welding skills. My interest in this field of study started with going to airshows with my father and uncle when I was little. I have always been fascinated with large plane engines and anything mechanical. I am truly thankful my parents have always encouraged me to learn by jumping in and trying. I built a wooden flower bed for my mom when in middle school, using power tools. I began welding in the 8th grade and attended a welding class in 9th grade and currently have my own welding machines. When I was 13, I began working on vehicles with my father (installing exhaust systems, replacing brakes, oil changes, etc.). In 2019, I began go-karting and working on building my go-kart (on a 30-year-old frame), racing, and fixing any problems I encountered (parts would fly off in the very beginning.) A lot of time over the years has been spent researching and trying to find ways to increase the speed of my kart and I have been pretty successful. I believe if you spoke with any adult in my life, they would recommend me for this scholarship because they know how hard I have worked to develop my technical skills and that I want to keep learning and growing in the trades. While at the go-kart track, I often help the other racers with their karts when they have mechanical issues. On the weekends, I volunteer to teach safety classes to new drivers and work with some drivers individually. Because he saw me working on my kart and helping others, the owner of the go-kart track asked me if I wanted to attend the Honda Motors school to become certified to work on small engines. In the summer following my sophomore year of high school, I attended classes through Honda Motor Corp. After completing the courses in February of my Junior year, I went to Norfolk to their testing facility and after two days of testing (I was the only kid there), I obtained my Honda Small Engine Master Technician Certification. Since then, I have been rebuilding Honda GX270 go-kart motors and doing full go-kart builds for the racetrack. I would like to see how I can evolve using my mechanical abilities. Aviation technicians play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of air travel. They are responsible for the maintenance, repair, and inspection of aircraft, ensuring that every component functions correctly and meets stringent safety standards. Their expertise prevents mechanical failures, minimizes downtime, and keeps flight schedules on track. By maintaining the integrity of aircraft systems, aviation technicians protect passengers and crew, making them indispensable to the aviation industry and its commitment to safe and reliable air transportation. We need more tradespeople and I endeavor to work hard to be as productive as I can with the skills I learn in trade school.
      Calvin C. Donelson Memorial Scholarship
      I am recent high school honors graduate and have been accepted to start at Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics in August of 2024 to obtain my FAA Airframe and Powerplant Certification to work on jet engines. I believe their program will combine my love of all things mechanical with my welding skills. I think my interest in this field of study really started with going to airshows with my father and uncle when I was little. I have always been fascinated with large plane engines and really anything mechanical. Eventually, I would also like to obtain my pilot's license and work in the field of aviation whether on the ground or in the air (or both). As far as going to trade school, my father has been one of my greatest inspirations. He decided college was not for him and left to attend TEST Electronics and currently has a job in the electrical field. As far as this particular school and field of study, it was my guidance counsellor. Even though I had really great grades and the ability to attend a university, she knew my heart was with working with my hands. She requested that I check into PIA because she felt their program would really fit with who I was as a person and my technical abilities. We lost her suddenly my senior year, but I will be forever indebted for how she helped put me on this path. Both of my parents have always encouraged me to learn things by jumping in and trying. I began welding in the 8th grade and attended a welding class in 9th grade and have my own welding machines. Beginning at the age of 13, I started working on vehicles with my father (installing exhaust systems, replacing brakes, oil changes, etc.). In 2019, I started go karting and working on building my own go kart (on a 30 year old frame), racing, and fixing any problems I may encounter (parts would fly off in the very beginning.) I spend a lot of time researching trying to find ways to increase the speed of my kart and have been pretty successful. I believe if you spoke with any adult in my life, they would recommend me for this scholarship because they know I have worked hard to develop my technical skills and that I want to keep learning and growing in the trades. While at the go kart track, I often help the other racers with their karts when they have mechanical issues. On the weekends, I volunteer to teach safety classes to new drivers. Seeing my efforts at the track I believe lead the owner of the track to ask me if I wanted to attend the Honda Motors school to become certified to work on small engines. In the summer following my sophomore year of high school I attended classes through Honda Motor Corp. After completing the courses in February of my Junior year, I went to Norfolk to their testing facility and after two days of testing (I was the only kid there), I obtained my Honda Small Engine Master Technician Certification. Since that time, I have been rebuilding Honda GX270 go kart motors and doing full go kart builds for the racetrack. I really would like to see where I can take my mechanical abilities. By acquiring the necessary skills and knowledge, I endeavor to uphold the inviolable trust, recognizing the immense responsibility that accompanies the privilege of ensuring the airworthiness of aircraft and safeguarding the lives of passengers and crew.
      Breast Cancer Awareness Scholarship in Memory of Martha Dickinson
      As I go through life, I often think about family and friends who are no longer with us due to cancer as well as those who are currently fighting to stay healthy. When my mother was pregnant with me, my grandfather was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer (and this was not his first type of cancer). He endured extremely painful treatments and surgeries hoping to meet me; however, he tragically passed 3 months before I was born. Pancreatic cancer was not my grandfather's first cancer. In the years prior to my birth he was diagnosed with skin cancer and underwent surgery. As the summer approaches we talk about the importance of sunscreen in protecting the skin, which is our body's largest organ. While sunscreen can be found everywhere at this time of the year, it is important that people understand this is a year round issue and we should always wear sunscreen; however, I admit to forgetting at times as well. I really think we should hear and learn more about the importance of sunscreen. While my grandfather was fighting to survive pancreatic cancer, my family did not know that his wife, my Mimi, was battling breast cancer at the same time. She kept it hidden from the family to be there for her dying husband. After his passing, she underwent a double mastectomy and started aggressive medical treatments. We were extremely fortunate that after her treatments she went into remission. I was able to spend time with her over the years, although we sadly lost her due to Covid in 2020. My great grandmother on my mother's side of the family had breast cancer as well. Because cancer runs in both sides of our family we do discuss preventative measures. For breast cancer is it extremely important for women, as well as men, to do self examinations. While breast cancer is 100 times less likely for men, if there is a family history, they need to be just as vigilant in their testing. Both men an women can be tested for the BRCA mutations. It is recommended that women receive regular mammograms after the age of 40. Because of our family history, my mom began getting regular mammograms and sonograms in her 30's. While heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US, cancer is ranked second by only the slimmest margin. There are so many things we can do for ourselves to prevent the likelihood of breast cancer and most cancers. 1) Keep our weight/body at a healthy bmi; 2) stay physically active; 3) do not smoke or vape; 4) eat healthy fruits and vegetables; 5) limit alcohol intake; 6) MAMMOGRAMS; 7) know your family history; 8) sunscreen and 9) genetic testing if you have the ability to afford to do so. While I may not feel entirely deserving of a scholarship in honor of those affected by cancer, especially when considering the many others who have faced greater hardships, receiving such a scholarship would still be immensely appreciated. I acknowledge that there are countless individuals with profound stories of resilience and loss due to cancer. Nevertheless, this scholarship would significantly support my educational journey, allowing me to focus on my studies and future contributions to society. It would be a meaningful recognition of the impact cancer has had on my life and a source of motivation to strive for excellence and make a positive difference in the fight against this disease.
      Craig Huffman Memorial Scholarship
      Currently, I am recent high school graduate and have been accepted to start at Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics in August of 2024 to obtain my FAA Airframe and Powerplant Certification to work on jet engines. I believe their program will combine my love of all things mechanical with my welding skills. I think my interest in this field of study really started with going to airshows with my father and uncle when I was little. I have always been fascinated with large plane engines and really anything mechanical. Eventually, I would also like to obtain my pilot's license and work in the field of aviation whether on the ground or in the air (or both). I began welding in the 8th grade and attended a welding class in 9th grade and have my own welding machines. Beginning at the age of 13, I started working on vehicles with my father (installing exhaust systems, replacing brakes, oil changes, etc.). In 2019, I started go karting and working with building my own go kart (on a 30 year old frame), racing, and fixing any problems (parts would fly off in the very beginning.) I spent a lot of time researching trying to find ways to increase the speed of my kart and have been pretty successful. I believe if you spoke with any adult in my life, they would recommend me for this scholarship because they know I have worked hard to develop my technical skills and that I want to keep learning and growing in the trades. While at the go kart track, I often help the other racers with their karts when they have mechanical issues. On the weekends, I volunteer to teach safety classes to new drivers. The owner of the track asked me if I wanted to attend the Honda Motors school to become certified to work on small engines. In the summer following my sophomore year of high school I attended classes through Honda Motor Corp. After completing the courses in February of my Junior year, I went to Norfolk to their testing facility and after two days of testing (I was the only kid there), I obtained my Honda Small Engine Master Technician Certification. Since that time, I have been rebuilding Honda GX270 go kart motors and doing full go kart builds for the racetrack. I really would like to see where I can take my mechanical abilities. By acquiring the necessary skills and knowledge, I endeavor to uphold the inviolable trust, recognizing the immense responsibility that accompanies the privilege of ensuring the airworthiness of aircraft and safeguarding the lives of passengers and crew.
      Future of Aviation Scholarship
      Currently, I am recent high school graduate and have been accepted to start at Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics in August of 2024 to obtain my FAA Airframe and Powerplant Certification to work on jet engines. I believe their program will combine my love of all things mechanical with my welding skills. I think my interest in this field of study really started with going to airshows with my father and uncle when I was little. I have always been fascinated with large plane engines and really anything mechanical. Eventually, I would also like to obtain my pilot's license and work in the field of aviation whether on the ground or in the air (or both). I began welding in the 8th grade and attended a welding class in 9th grade and have my own welding machines. Beginning at the age of 13, I started working on vehicles with my father (installing exhaust systems, replacing brakes, oil changes, etc.). In 2019, I started go karting and working with building my own go kart (on a 30 year old frame), racing, and fixing any problems (parts would fly off in the very beginning.) I spent a lot of time researching trying to find ways to increase the speed of my kart and have been pretty successful. I believe if you spoke with any adult in my life, they would recommend me for this scholarship because they know I have worked hard to develop my technical skills and that I want to keep learning and growing in the trades. While at the go kart track, I often help the other racers with their karts when they have mechanical issues. On the weekends, I volunteer to teach safety classes to new drivers. The owner of the track asked me if I wanted to attend the Honda Motors school to become certified to work on small engines. In the summer following my sophomore year of high school I attended classes through Honda Motor Corp. After completing the courses in February of my Junior year, I went to Norfolk to their testing facility and after two days of testing (I was the only kid there), I obtained my Honda Small Engine Master Technician Certification. Since that time, I have been rebuilding Honda GX270 go kart motors and doing full go kart builds for the racetrack. I really would like to see where I can take my mechanical abilities. By acquiring the necessary skills and knowledge, I endeavor to uphold the inviolable trust, recognizing the immense responsibility that accompanies the privilege of ensuring the airworthiness of aircraft and safeguarding the lives of passengers and crew.
      Brattican Scholarship
      Currently, I am a senior in high school and have been accepted to start at PIA in August of 2024 to obtain my FAA Airframe and Powerplant Certification to work on jet engines. I believe their program will combine my love of all things mechanical with my welding skills. I think my interest in this field of study really started with going to airshows with my father and uncle when I was little. I have always been fascinated with large plane engines and really anything mechanical. Eventually, I would also like to obtain my pilot's license and work in the field of aviation whether on the ground or in the air (or both). I began welding in the 8th grade and attended a welding class in 9th grade and have my own welding machines. Beginning at the age of 13, I started working on vehicles with my father (installing exhaust systems, replacing brakes, oil changes, etc.). In 2019, I started go karting and working with building my own go kart (on a 30 year old frame), racing, and fixing the problems (parts would fly off in the very beginning.) I spent a lot of time researching trying to find ways to increase the speed of my kart and have been pretty successful. I believe if you spoke with any adult in my life, they would recommend me for this scholarship because they know I have worked hard to develop my technical skills and that I want to keep learning and growing in the trades. While at the go kart track, I often help the other racers with their karts when they have mechanical issues. On the weekends, I volunteer to teach safety classes to new drivers. The owner of the track asked me if I wanted to attend the Honda Motors school to become certified to work on small engines. In the summer following my sophomore year of high school I attended classes through Honda Motor Corp. After completing the courses in February of my Junior year, I went to Norfolk to their testing facility and after two days of testing (I was the only kid there), I obtained my Honda Small Engine Master Technician Certification. Since that time, I have been rebuilding Honda GX270 go kart motors and doing full go kart builds for the racetrack. I really would like to see where I can take my mechanical abilities. By acquiring the necessary skills and knowledge, I endeavor to uphold the inviolable trust, recognizing the immense responsibility that accompanies the privilege of ensuring the airworthiness of aircraft and safeguarding the lives of passengers and crew.
      Thomas Mashig Foundation Scholarship
      Currently, I am a senior in high school and have been accepted to start at PIA in August of 2024 to obtain my FAA Airframe and Powerplant Certification to work on jet engines. I believe their program will combine my love of all things mechanical with my welding skills. I think my interest in this field of study really started with going to airshows with my father and uncle when I was little. I have always been fascinated with large plane engines and really anything mechanical. Eventually, I would also like to obtain my pilot's license and work in the field of aviation whether on the ground or in the air (or both). I began welding in the 8th grade and attended a welding class in 9th grade and have my own welding machines. Beginning at the age of 13, I started working on vehicles with my father (installing exhaust systems, replacing brakes, oil changes, etc.). In 2019, I started go karting and working with building my own go kart (on a 30 year old frame), racing, and fixing the problems (parts would fly off in the very beginning.) I spent a lot of time researching trying to find ways to increase the speed of my kart and have been pretty successful. I believe if you spoke with any adult in my life, they would recommend me for this scholarship because they know I have worked hard to develop my technical skills and that I want to keep learning and growing in the trades. While at the go kart track, I often help the other racers with their karts when they have mechanical issues. On the weekends, I volunteer to teach safety classes to new drivers. The owner of the track asked me if I wanted to attend the Honda Motors school to become certified to work on small engines. In the summer following my sophomore year of high school I attended classes through Honda Motor Corp. After completing the courses in February of my Junior year, I went to Norfolk to their testing facility and after two days of testing (I was the only kid there), I obtained my Honda Small Engine Master Technician Certification. Since that time, I have been rebuilding Honda GX270 go kart motors and doing full go kart builds for the racetrack. I really would like to see where I can take my mechanical abilities. By acquiring the necessary skills and knowledge, I endeavor to uphold the inviolable trust, recognizing the immense responsibility that accompanies the privilege of ensuring the airworthiness of aircraft and safeguarding the lives of passengers and crew.
      Joshua’s Home Remodeling Scholarship
      I will be attending Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics in their Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) Program to obtain my FAA Airframe and Powerplant Certification to work on jet engines. I think my interest in this field of study really started with going to airshows with my father and uncle when I was little. I have always been fascinated with large plane engines and really anything mechanical. In my early teens, I began working on vehicles with my father and tried to figure out how many things in the house operated. I began welding in the 8th grade and attended a welding class in 9th grade and have my own welding machines. Beginning at the age of 13 I started working on vehicles with my father (installing exhaust system, replacing brakes, oil changes, etc.). In 2019, I started go karting and working with building my own go kart, racing, and fixing the problems (parts would fly off in the very beginning.) I spent a lot of time researching trying to find more speed for my kart. In the summer following my sophomore year of high school I attended classes through Honda Motor Corp. After completing the courses in February of my Junior year, I went to Norfolk to their testing facility and after two days of testing (I was the only kid there), I obtained my Honda Small Engine Master Technician Certification. Since that time, I have been rebuilding Honda GX270 go kart motors and doing full go kart builds. Currently, I am a senior in high school and have been accepted to start at PIA in August of 2024. I believe their program will combine my love of all things mechanical with my welding skills. Eventually, I would like to obtain my pilot's license and work in the field of aviation whether on the ground or in the air (or both). There is a possibility that I would also like to pursue a mechanical engineering degree. I believe if you spoke with any adult in my life, they would recommend me for this scholarship because they know I have worked hard to develop my technical skills and that I want to keep learning and growing in the trades. While at the go kart track, I often helped the other racers with their karts when they had mechanical issues. The owner of the track was the person who asked me if I wanted to attend the Honda Motors program when I was just 16. He registered me for the classes and I have been working on kart motors for them ever since. I really would like to see where I can take my mechanical abilities. By acquiring the necessary skills and knowledge, I endeavor to uphold this sacred trust, recognizing the immense responsibility that accompanies the privilege of ensuring the airworthiness of aircraft and safeguarding the lives of passengers and crew.
      Rod Tucci Memorial Scholarship
      I will be attending Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics in their Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) Program to obtain my FAA Airframe and Powerplant Certification to work on jet engines. I think my interest in this field of study really started with going to airshows with my father and uncle when I was little. I have always been fascinated with large plane engines and really anything mechanical. In my early teens, I began working on vehicles with my father and tried to figure out how many things in the house operated. I began welding in the 8th grade and attended a welding class in 9th grade and have my own welding machines. Beginning at the age of 13 I started working on vehicles with my father (installing exhaust system, replacing brakes, oil changes, etc.). In 2019, I started go karting and working with building my own go kart, racing, and fixing the problems (parts would fly off in the very beginning.) I spent a lot of time researching trying to find more speed for my kart. In the summer following my sophomore year of high school I attended classes through Honda Motor Corp. After completing the courses in February of my Junior year, I went to Norfolk to their testing facility and after two days of testing (I was the only kid there), I obtained my Honda Small Engine Master Technician Certification. Since that time, I have been rebuilding Honda GX270 go kart motors and doing full go kart builds. Currently, I am a senior in high school and have been accepted to start at PIA in August of 2024. I believe their program will combine my love of all things mechanical with my welding skills. Eventually, I would like to obtain my pilot's license and work in the field of aviation whether on the ground or in the air (or both). There is a possibility that I would also like to pursue a mechanical engineering degree. I believe if you spoke with any adult in my life, they would recommend me for this scholarship because they know I have worked hard to develop my technical skills and that I want to keep learning and growing in the trades. While at the go kart track, I often helped the other racers with their karts when they had mechanical issues. The owner of the track was the person who asked me if I wanted to attend the Honda Motors program when I was just 16. He registered me for the classes and I have been working on kart motors for them ever since. I really would like to see where I can take my mechanical abilities. By acquiring the necessary skills and knowledge, I endeavor to uphold this sacred trust, recognizing the immense responsibility that accompanies the privilege of ensuring the airworthiness of aircraft and safeguarding the lives of passengers and crew.
      Spirit of Wenatchee Aviation Scholarship
      Some of my earliest memories were of attending airshows with my father and uncle and I have had a profound fascination with aviation ever since. This Fall will begin my journey in aviation with my attendance at Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics seeking the knowledge to obtain my FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P)Certification. First and foremost, aviation maintenance embodies the perfect synthesis of my two greatest interests: aviation and mechanics. Delving into the intricate inner workings of aircraft, deciphering the complexities of engines, hydraulics, avionics, and airframes, represents not merely a vocation, but a calling. The prospect of being at the forefront of ensuring the safety, reliability, and airworthiness of aircraft resonates deeply with my intrinsic sense of responsibility and dedication to excellence. Moreover, the aviation industry stands as a bastion of innovation and technological advancement, perpetually pushing the boundaries of human ingenuity. By pursuing an aviation maintenance certificate, I seek to immerse myself in this dynamic realm of progress, where every nut, bolt, and wire serves as a conduit for innovation. I aspire to be a catalyst for transformative change within the aviation maintenance landscape, driving efficiency, sustainability, and safety through continuous learning and adaptation. Beyond the realm of technical proficiency, the pursuit of an aviation maintenance certificate embodies a profound sense of duty and service to others. Each day, thousands of lives take flight, placing their trust in the expertise and diligence of aviation maintenance professionals. By acquiring the necessary skills and knowledge, I endeavor to uphold this sacred trust, recognizing the immense responsibility that accompanies the privilege of ensuring the airworthiness of aircraft and safeguarding the lives of passengers and crew. Furthermore, the aviation industry offers a plethora of opportunities for personal and professional growth, spanning diverse sectors and specialties. From commercial airlines to private aviation, from military aircraft to aerospace manufacturing, the avenues for advancement are as vast and expansive as the skies themselves. By obtaining an aviation maintenance certificate, I seek to carve out a niche within this multifaceted industry, forging a career path that aligns with my passions, aspirations, and values. In the future, I also look to obtain a pilot's license and perhaps an aeronautical engineering degree. In conclusion, the decision to pursue an aviation maintenance certificate is not merely a vocational choice, but a testament to my enduring love for aviation, my unwavering commitment to excellence, and my steadfast dedication to service. With each rivet riveted, each wire spliced, and each engine tuned, I embark on a journey towards realizing my dreams, contributing to the advancement of aviation, and leaving an indelible mark on the boundless expanse of the sky.
      James Diorato Memorial Scholarship
      Some of my earliest memories were of attending airshows with my father and uncle and I have had a profound fascination with aviation ever since. First and foremost, aviation maintenance embodies the perfect synthesis of my two greatest interests: aviation and mechanics. Delving into the intricate inner workings of aircraft, deciphering the complexities of engines, hydraulics, avionics, and airframes, represents not merely a vocation, but a calling. The prospect of being at the forefront of ensuring the safety, reliability, and airworthiness of aircraft resonates deeply with my intrinsic sense of responsibility and dedication to excellence. Moreover, the aviation industry stands as a bastion of innovation and technological advancement, perpetually pushing the boundaries of human ingenuity. By pursuing an aviation maintenance certificate, I seek to immerse myself in this dynamic realm of progress, where every nut, bolt, and wire serves as a conduit for innovation. I aspire to be a catalyst for transformative change within the aviation maintenance landscape, driving efficiency, sustainability, and safety through continuous learning and adaptation. Beyond the realm of technical proficiency, the pursuit of an aviation maintenance certificate embodies a profound sense of duty and service to others. Each day, thousands of lives take flight, placing their trust in the expertise and diligence of aviation maintenance professionals. By acquiring the necessary skills and knowledge, I endeavor to uphold this sacred trust, recognizing the immense responsibility that accompanies the privilege of ensuring the airworthiness of aircraft and safeguarding the lives of passengers and crew. Furthermore, the aviation industry offers a plethora of opportunities for personal and professional growth, spanning diverse sectors and specialties. From commercial airlines to private aviation, from military aircraft to aerospace manufacturing, the avenues for advancement are as vast and expansive as the skies themselves. By obtaining an aviation maintenance certificate, I seek to carve out a niche within this multifaceted industry, forging a career path that aligns with my passions, aspirations, and values. In the future, I also look to obtain a pilot's license and perhaps an aeronautical engineering degree. In conclusion, the decision to pursue an aviation maintenance certificate is not merely a vocational choice, but a testament to my enduring love for aviation, my unwavering commitment to excellence, and my steadfast dedication to service. With each rivet riveted, each wire spliced, and each engine tuned, I embark on a journey towards realizing my dreams, contributing to the advancement of aviation, and leaving an indelible mark on the boundless expanse of the sky.
      Joe Ford Trade Scholarship
      1) I will be attending Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics in their Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) Program to obtain my FAA Airframe and Powerplant Certification to work on jet engines. 2) I think my interest in this field of study really started with going to airshows with my father and uncle when I was little. I have always been fascinated with large plane engines and really anything mechanical. In my early teens, I began working on vehicles with my father and tried to figure out how may things in the house operated. 3) I began welding in the 8th grade and attended a welding class in 9th grade and have my own welding machines. Beginning at the age of 13 I started working on vehicles with my father (installing exhaust system, replacing brakes, oil changes, etc.). In 2019, I started go karting and working with building my own go kart, racing, and fixing the problems (parts would fly off in the very beginning.) I spent a lot of time researching trying to find more speed for my kart. In the summer following my sophomore year of high school I attended classes through Honda Motor Corp. After completing the courses I went to Norfolk to their testing facility and after two days of testing, I obtained my Honda Small Engine Master Technician Certification. Since that time, I have been rebuilding Honda GX270 go kart motors and doing full go kart builds. 4) Currently, I am a senior in high school and have been accepted to start at PIA in August of 2024. I believe their program will combine my love of all things mechanical with my welding skills. Eventually, I would like to obtain my pilot's license and work in the field of aviation whether on the ground or in the air (or both). There is a possibility that I would also like to pursue a mechanical engineering degree. 6) I believe they would recommend me because they know I have worked hard to develop my technical skills and that I want to keep learning and growing in the trades. While at the go kart track, I often helped the other racers with their karts when they had mechanical issues. The owner of the track was the person who asked me if I wanted to attend the Honda Motors program when I was just 16. He registered me for the classes and I have been working on kart motors for them ever since.
      Joseph Lipovits Memorial Aviation Scholarship
      Some of my earliest memories are of attending airshows with my father and uncle and I have had a profound fascination with aviation ever since. First and foremost, aviation maintenance embodies the perfect synthesis of my two greatest interests: aviation and mechanics. Delving into the intricate inner workings of aircraft, deciphering the complexities of engines, hydraulics, avionics, and airframes, represents not merely a vocation, but a calling. The prospect of being at the forefront of ensuring the safety, reliability, and airworthiness of aircraft resonates deeply with my intrinsic sense of responsibility and dedication to excellence. Moreover, the aviation industry stands as a bastion of innovation and technological advancement, perpetually pushing the boundaries of human ingenuity. By pursuing an aviation maintenance certificate, I seek to immerse myself in this dynamic realm of progress, where every nut, bolt, and wire serves as a conduit for innovation. I aspire to be a catalyst for transformative change within the aviation maintenance landscape, driving efficiency, sustainability, and safety through continuous learning and adaptation. Beyond the realm of technical proficiency, the pursuit of an aviation maintenance certificate embodies a profound sense of duty and service to others. Each day, thousands of lives take flight, placing their trust in the expertise and diligence of aviation maintenance professionals. By acquiring the necessary skills and knowledge, I endeavor to uphold this sacred trust, recognizing the immense responsibility that accompanies the privilege of ensuring the airworthiness of aircraft and safeguarding the lives of passengers and crew. Furthermore, the aviation industry offers a plethora of opportunities for personal and professional growth, spanning diverse sectors and specialties. From commercial airlines to private aviation, from military aircraft to aerospace manufacturing, the avenues for advancement are as vast and expansive as the skies themselves. By obtaining an aviation maintenance certificate, I seek to carve out a niche within this multifaceted industry, forging a career path that aligns with my passions, aspirations, and values. In the future, I also look to obtain a pilot's license and perhaps an aeronautical engineering degree. In conclusion, the decision to pursue an aviation maintenance certificate is not merely a vocational choice, but a profound testament to my enduring love for aviation, my unwavering commitment to excellence, and my steadfast dedication to service. With each rivet riveted, each wire spliced, and each engine tuned, I embark on a journey towards realizing my dreams, contributing to the advancement of aviation, and leaving an indelible mark on the boundless expanse of the sky.