Will Pendergrass and Colton Russell, both of West Plains, recently earned their private pilot certificates.
Pendergrass is the son of David and Krista Pendergrass of West Plains. Russell is the son of Cody and Randi Russell of West Plains.
Both completed their flight training through Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 1218 as recipients of the EAA Ray Aviation Scholarship. The scholarship program, funded by the Ray Foundation and administered by the Experimental Aircraft Association, helps cover flight training expenses.
“Passing the check ride is the culmination of months of dedication, studying and hands-on flying,” said Phyllis White, scholarship coordinator for EAA Chapter 1218. “We are incredibly proud of Will and Colton’s hard work. Our chapter is thrilled to help both of these young people achieve their dream of flight, and we cannot wait to see where aviation takes them next.”
To receive the Ray Aviation Scholarship, recipients must meet eligibility requirements that include being between the ages of 16 and 19, having taken an EAA Young Eagles flight and completing chapter volunteer service.
Through support from the Ray Foundation, EAA has helped hundreds of young adults earn pilot certificates since the program began. Locally, EAA Chapter 1218 mentors aspiring pilots through each stage of their training.
EAA Chapter 1218 is a local chapter of the Experimental Aircraft Association based at Willow Springs Airport. Chapter members focus on aviation education, youth mentoring, Young Eagles flights and community education. The chapter meets the second Saturday of each month at its hangar, 810 Bryan St. in Willow Springs. Meeting times vary.
For more information about the Ray Aviation Scholarship or local youth aviation opportunities, visit the EAA Chapter 1218 Facebook page, go to chapters.eaa.org/eaa1218 or call 417-233-1218.
