Avfuel Corporation will be distributing $4,500 in funds to individuals pursuing careers and advancements in aviation.
In total, one AVTRIP scholarship recipient and two Avfuel Pilot-in-Training Scholarship recipients were selected from the 2024 applicant pool: Holly Cron, Britney Howard and Kenny Melis.
Holly Cron of Spring, TX, received the AVTRIP scholarship worth $2,000. During a 15-year hiatus from flying, Cron pursued a career in air traffic control and recognized a need for improved communication between pilots and the control tower. As a result, she started a pilot outreach program, and volunteers her time speaking to flight schools, flight organizations and corporations about the importance of clear, concise communication to enhance safety and operations.
Cron plans to continue building experience as an air traffic controller before transitioning into a certified flight instructor and will use the scholarship money toward her goal of becoming a contract pilot.
Britney Howard, the $1,000 Pilot-in-Training Scholarship recipient, will use her funds to attend Wings Flight School in Lexington, Kentucky.
Kenny Melis of New York, NY, recipient of the $1,500 Pilot-in-Training Scholarship, driven by a lifelong passion for aviation, was inspired by his mother to pursue his dreams and overcome obstacles. Melis will attend Air Fleet Training Systems in New Jersey and plans to use the scholarship funds toward tuition fees, essential gear and supplies, and additional certificates.
Applications for the 2025 AVTRIP and Avfuel Pilot-in-Training Scholarships are now available online through September 4, 2025. In addition, the 2025 Sheltair & Avfuel: Future Takes Flight Scholarship applications are available online through August 31, 2025.
