Scholarship Offerings and Requirements

Whirly-Girls 2025 Scholarships

Thank you for your interest in the Whirly-Girls scholarship program. The application period has closed. Please stay tuned for information about our scholarship recipients at the Awards Gala in Dallas at Verticon in 2025!

The list below includes scholarships for the Whirly-Girls 2025 scholarship season. To view the description and requirements for a scholarship, please click its title.

Questions? Check out our FAQ page. If you still have questions, please contact the VP of Scholarships at scholarships@whirlygirls.org.


The 2025 Whirly-Girls Scholarships

Whirly-Girls Memorial Flight Training Scholarship
This scholarship honors and represents all of our Whirly-Girls and Associate Members who are now “hovering in heaven.” It is provided by the Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund with a total value of $8,000. This scholarship may be applied towards a Whirly-Girl upgrading or advancing her current helicopter rating.

Requirements: the applicant must be a helicopter pilot with at least a private pilot certificate/license. She must be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed by December 31, 2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl member, you can join now.
Whirly-Girls Initial or Add-On Helicopter Flight Training Scholarship
FOR FEMALE STUDENT PILOTS OR FEMALE PILOTS RATED IN AIRCRAFT OTHER THAN HELICOPTERS. This scholarship, funded by the Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund, is awarded to a female student pilot or certificated female pilot who does not currently have a helicopter rating and provides $8,000 to be awarded upon completion of her initial or add-on helicopter rating. The applicant will be evaluated for evidence of intent to work in the helicopter industry.

Requirements: the applicant must be an associate member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed by December 31, 2025. If you are not currently an Associate member, you can join now.
Whirly-Girls Jean Tinsley Memorial VERTICON Scholarship
This scholarship is provided by the Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund and the Jean Tinsley estate. Jean Tinsley, WG#118, was a strong advocate of camaraderie and mentorship among female aviators. In commemoration of Jean’s love of meetings, also known as “hoverings,” one Whirly-Girl will receive a trip to join the Whirly-Girls for the Annual Gala and Whirly-Girls events at VERTICON in Dallas, Texas, March 9 - 13, 2025. The scholarship includes a VERTICON show pass with access to the expo floor, training seminars, and associated events; five nights’ shared accommodations; $600 travel and meal stipend, and a Whirly-Girls Awards Banquet ticket. This scholarship is valued up to $2400.

Requirements: each applicant must be a helicopter pilot with at least a private pilot certificate/license. She must be a member in good standing at time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during the VERTICON event in 2025, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Preference will be given to a Whirly-Girl who has not previously attended HAI HELI-EXPO (now VERTICON). If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl member, you can join now.
NEW THIS YEAR! 3G Getting Started with Helicopters Scholarship
Sponsored by 3-G Heli Prep, this scholarship will provide THREE associate members who are looking to obtain their private helicopter certificate with full access to a series of comprehensive online helicopter pilot training programs, which includes:

1. Getting Started with Helicopters - Everything you need to know to begin your helicopter pilot journey.
2. How to Pay for Flight School - Detailed guidance on finding money with scholarships and loans to pay for your flight training.
3. 21-Day Private Helicopter Pilot Course - Intensive 21-day online training designed to help students pass their private written and oral exams.

The scholarship is redeemable for one year from the date of award. Once redeemed, the recipient will be given lifetime access to the above-mentioned courses allowing the recipient to complete the courses at their own pace. Ability to obtain a valid FAA Class 3 medical certificate or international equivalent is recommended. The scholarship is open to international students; however, the subject matter is geared towards obtaining your FAA private helicopter certificate. Each scholarship package is valued at $794.

Requirements: the applicant must be an associate member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and while redeeming the course. She must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024 and have redeemed the scholarship no later than September 31, 2025. If you are not currently an Associate member, you can join now.
UPDATE! Airbus Helicopters North America/Helisim LLC AS350 Scenario-Based Training Course Scholarship
Sponsored by Airbus and Helisim LLC, this scholarship gives TWO Whirly-Girls the opportunity to strengthen their aeronautical decision-making skills and aircraft systems knowledge through scenario-based training in a Helisim LLC AS350 Full Flight Simulator (FFS). The training given will include an IIMC event and a real-world mission with hydraulic failure scenarios. This is a two-day course including ground training and for each scenario approximately one hour in the simulator. The course is given at the Airbus Helicopters North American Regional Training Center in Grand Prairie, Texas, USA. Course value: $5,700.

Requirements: the applicant must be a helicopter pilot with at least a private certificate/license or international equivalent with a minimum of 100 hours PIC rotorcraft as well as an AS350/H125 transition and experience. A commercial certificate/license and a Class 2 medical are recommended although that is not required since the course is simulator only. She must be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed by August 31, 2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl member, you can join now.
Anastasia Mosquito Control District Ag Spray Scholarship
Sponsored by the Anastasia Mosquito Control District of St. Johns County, Florida, this scholarship provides TWO Whirly-Girls with four days in a Mosquito Control District that will involve flying Bell 206B3 Jet Rangers dispersing dry larvicide, and possible NVG use if dispersing liquid adulticide at appropriate altitudes. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the agriculture industry and how to safely fly profiles at tree top height (day VFR) and/or 200 - 300 feet AGL. This scholarship will include around 4 - 6 hours of flight time in a Bell 206B3 Jet Ranger with the possibility to extend for B206 transition if time permits. The course is valued at approximately $4,800.

The applicant must hold a minimum of an FAA private rotorcraft certificate (or international equivalent) and FAA Class 2 medical certificate and have an interest in Ag spraying or mosquito control spraying. Transport and meals are at the cost of the applicant, but lodging in a small on-site dorm is included. This scholarship will need to take place during the season of April/May to November/December 2025. Due to the scientific need of spraying, Anastasia will be flexible with the timing which is also required from the applicants to get the desired results.

Requirements: the applicant must be a helicopter pilot with at least a private certificate/license. She must be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed by December 31, 2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl member, you can join now.
Stewart ‘Stu’ Dietrick Memorial Scholarship -- Inadvertent IMC and Helicopter Upset Recovery Course
Sponsored by Bell Training Academy, this scholarship provides an opportunity for a Whirly-Girl to attend the Inadvertent Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IIMC) and Helicopter Upset Recovery Course at the Bell Training Academy in Fort Worth, Texas. The IIMC and Helicopter Upset Recovery Course has been developed so that following approximately 8 hours of procedural and theoretical training, pilots will have comprehensive knowledge of IIMC, Upset Recovery, and a thorough understanding of the avoidance techniques. The course will use the Bell 505 Flight Training Device to assist pilots in safely recognizing and avoiding the onset of IIMC. They will also learn and practice techniques to safely recover from IIMC and Unusual Attitudes. Course value is $6,350.

Requirements: the applicant must be a helicopter pilot with at least a private certificate/license. She must be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed by December 31, 2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl member, you can join now.
NEW THIS YEAR! Bell 407 Field Maintenance Scholarship
Sponsored by Bell Training Academy, this three-week course provides aircraft theoretical type training only on the Bell Model 407 at the Bell Training Academy in Fort Worth, Texas or Singapore. The deserving Whirly-Girl or Associate member will receive comprehensive training on the description, function, and maintenance procedures required for field maintenance of the Bell 407 helicopter. She will receive system training on the following: airframe, ground handling and servicing, main rotor, main rotor controls, main rotor drive system, powerplant (installation and rigging as related to the airframe), fuel system, tail rotor drive system, tail rotor, hydraulic system(s), flight controls, and electrical system(s). The value of this course is $13,000.

Bell requires that all regulatory technicians must take the written exams in English only without the assistance of an interpreter or digital translator. Approved for Certification by: CAAS, CASA, and Transport Canada at Fort Worth and CAAS, CASA in Singapore.

Requirements: The Whirly-Girl or Associate applicant must hold a valid airframe & powerplant (A&P) license (or international equivalent) or equivalent civil/military recognition document issued by the applicable National Authority and/or Regulatory Agency. Each applicant must be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed in accordance with Bell Training Academy’s schedule and no later than December 31, 2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl or Associate member, you can join now.
NEW THIS YEAR! Bell 407 Series Integrated Avionics System Maintenance Scholarship
Bell Training Academy is providing a two-week non-regulatory course to one deserving Whirly-Girl or Associate member. The course incorporates the 407 series from analog to 407 GX/GXi electrical and avionics systems, in addition to the incorporation of the Garmin G1000 Avionics system. The course encompasses function, operation, and maintenance task requirements including both classroom theoretical instructor-guided lecture and practical hands-on training for both electrical and avionics systems. Bell requires that all regulatory technicians must take the written exams in English only without the assistance of an interpreter or digital translator. Training can take place at either the Bell Training Academy in Fort Worth, Texas or Singapore and has a value of $10,900.

Requirements: the Whirly-Girl or Associate applicant must hold a valid airframe & powerplant (A&P) license (or international equivalent) or equivalent civil/military recognition document issued by the applicable National Authority and/or Regulatory Agency. Each applicant must be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed in accordance with Bell Training Academy’s schedule and no later than December 31, 2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl or Associate member, you can join now.
NEW THIS YEAR! Bell 412 Series Field Maintenance Scholarship
Sponsored by Bell Training Academy, this three-week standard course given at Bell Training Academy in Fort Worth, Texas or Singapore provides comprehensive coverage of the description, function, and maintenance procedures required for field maintenance of the 412 helicopter. The awarded Whirly-Girl or Associate member will receive classroom and hands-on experience on the following: airframe, ground handling and servicing, main rotor, main rotor controls, main rotor drive system, powerplant (installation and rigging as related to the airframe), fuel system, tail rotor drive system, tail rotor, hydraulic system(s), flight controls, and electrical system(s). Bell requires that all regulatory technicians must take the written exams in English only without the assistance of an interpreter or digital translator. Approved for Certification by: OEM and Transport Canada (Fort Worth only). Course Value is $14,250.

Requirements: the Whirly-Girl or Associate applicant must hold a valid airframe & powerplant (A&P) license (or international equivalent) or equivalent civil/military recognition document issued by the applicable National Authority and/or Regulatory Agency. Each applicant must be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed in accordance with Bell Training Academy’s schedule and no later than December 31, 2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl or Associate member, you can join now.
NEW THIS YEAR! Bell 429 Field Maintenance Scholarship
Sponsored by Bell Training Academy, this three-week standard course provides comprehensive coverage of the description, function, and maintenance procedures required for field maintenance of the Bell 429 helicopter at the Bell Training Academy in Fort Worth, Texas or Singapore. The awarded Whirly-Girl or Associate member will receive classroom and hands-on experience on the following: airframe, ground handling and servicing, main rotor, main rotor controls, main rotor drive system, powerplant (installation and rigging as related to the airframe), fuel system, tail rotor drive system, tail rotor, hydraulic system(s), flight controls, and electrical system(s). Bell requires that all regulatory technicians must take the written exams in English only without the assistance of an interpreter or digital translator. This course provides aircraft type training to qualify engineers on the Bell 429 aircraft. Approved for Certification by: CAAS, CASA, and Transport Canada in Fort Worth and CAAS and CASA in Singapore. Course Value $15,450.

Requirements: the Whirly-Girl or Associate applicant must hold a valid airframe & powerplant (A&P) license (or international equivalent) or equivalent civil/military recognition document issued by the applicable National Authority and/or Regulatory Agency. Each applicant must be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed in accordance with Bell Training Academy’s schedule and no later than December 31, 2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl or Associate member, you can join now.
NEW THIS YEAR! Bell 429 Integrated Avionics System Maintenance Scholarship
Bell Training Academy is providing a three-week course to one deserving Whirly-Girl or Associate member on the 429 Integrated Avionics System at the Bell Training Academy in Fort Worth, Texas or Singapore. This course covers the 429 electrical system, avionics system, and AFCS system. Bell requires that all regulatory technicians must take the written exams in English only without the assistance of an interpreter or digital translator. Approved for Certification by: OEM and CASA. Course value $15,550.

Requirements: The Whirly-Girls or Associate applicant must hold a valid airframe & powerplant (A&P) license (or international equivalent) or equivalent civil/military recognition document issued by the applicable National Authority and/or Regulatory Agency. Each applicant must be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed in accordance with Bell Training Academy’s schedule and no later than December 31, 2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl or Associate member, you can join now.
Bell 505 B1.3 Field Maintenance Scholarship
Sponsored by Bell Training Academy, this scholarship provides an opportunity for a Whirly-Girl or Associate member to attend 505 B1.3 Field Maintenance course, held over two weeks at the Bell Training Academy in Fort Worth, Texas or Singapore. This course covers description, function, operation and field maintenance tasks required to maintain helicopter airworthiness. Classroom and/or shop work in the following areas will be covered: system descriptions, airframe systems, equipment, fuel system/hydraulic system, structures, main rotor/main rotor drive system, tail rotor/tail rotor drive system, rotor flight controls, electrical system, and powerplant installation and rigging as related to the airframe. Approved for certification by: CAAC, CAAS, DGCA, EASA, GCAA, Transport Canada, UK CAA at BTA Fort Worth and CAAC, CAAS, EASA, GCAA, UK CAA at BTA Singapore. Course value is $8,850.

Requirements: the Whirly-Girls or Associate applicant must hold a valid airframe & powerplant (A&P) license (or international equivalent) or equivalent civil/military recognition document issued by the applicable National Authority and/or Regulatory Agency. Each applicant must be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed in accordance with Bell Training Academy's schedule and no later than December 31, 2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl or Associate member, you can join now.
NEW THIS YEAR! Bell 505 B2 Integrated Avionics Maintenance Scholarship
Sponsored by Bell Training Academy, this comprehensive course covers the description, function, operation and maintenance tasks required to maintain the airworthiness of the 505 Helicopter Electrical systems and Avionics systems. This two-week course includes theoretical and practical training for one deserving Whirly-Girl or Associate member. A student who fails to meet all attendance and evaluation requirements receives a Letter of Attendance. Bell requires that all regulatory technicians must take the written exams in English only without the assistance of an interpreter or digital translator. Training can take place at either the Bell Training Academy in Fort Worth, Texas or Singapore and is approved for Certification by: CAAC, CAAS, DGCA, EASA, GCAA, Transport Canada and UK CAA at BTA Fort Worth and CAAC, CAAS, EASA, GCAA and UK CAA at BTA Singapore.The value of this course is $9,400.

Requirements: The applicant must hold a valid airframe & powerplant (A&P) license (or international equivalent) or equivalent civil/military recognition document issued by the applicable National Authority and/or Regulatory Agency. Each applicant must be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed in accordance with Bell Training Academy’s schedule and no later than December 31,2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl or Associate member, you can join now.
Bristow Group Initial Helicopter Flight Training Scholarship
FOR FEMALE STUDENT PILOTS CURRENTLY SEEKING AN INITIAL HELICOPTER CERTIFICATE. This scholarship, sponsored by Bristow Group, is awarded to a female student pilot who does not currently have a helicopter rating and provides $5,000 to be awarded upon completion of her initial certificate. The applicant will be evaluated for evidence of intent to work in the helicopter industry.

Requirements: the applicant must be an associate member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed by December 31, 2025.
If you are not currently an Associate member, you can join now.
CAE S-76 Initial Training for Helicopter ATP Scholarship
Sponsored by CAE, this ATP scholarship provides a Whirly-Girl a full Sikorsky S-76 initial training course with the objective of completing her ATP helicopter check ride. This course includes at least 14 hours of flight training in their Sikorsky S-76C+ simulator, 43 hours of aircraft ground training, 8 hours of systems integration training as well as 2 hours for the oral practical test and 2-3 hours for the practical test in the simulator. Course value is approximately $22,000.

The applicant must meet the eligibility requirements of 14 CFR Section 61.153, and aeronautical knowledge of 14 CFR Section 61.155 and Section 61.161. Current or former military pilots may be eligible for an ATP certificate by meeting the military experience requirements under 61.73. The candidate will meet the requirements to sit for the ATP check ride in the helicopter, and the written exam must be completed prior to the start of the course. International applicants are welcome to apply but must hold an FAA certificate, meet the requirements shown above to enable the upgrade to ATP, and be able to obtain TSA clearance to be able to train in the USA.

Requirements: each applicant must be a helicopter pilot who meets the 14 CFR requirements laid out above. The applicant should clearly indicate in their submission how the training is expected to assist her in her helicopter aviation career. She must also be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Please note that transport and expenses are not included, and scholarship training must be completed by December 31, 2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl member, you can join now.

 

NEW THIS YEAR! Coptersafety H145 Initial/ATP Training Course
Sponsored by Coptersafety, this scholarship provides a Whirly-Girl with a full H145 Initial / ATP Training Course at the Coptersafety Training Center in Helsinki, Finland with the objective of successfully obtaining her ATP certificate in the H145. The training includes all technical ground training, VFR and IFR flight training, and the ATP practical test in their H145 Full-Flight Simulator. The combined value for the training course is approximately $39,900.

Requirements: The type rating applicant pilot must hold a valid commercial pilot certificate with Rotorcraft-Helicopter category and class ratings, an instrument helicopter rating, a valid medical certificate, and have a minimum of 1000 flight hours in helicopters.

The ATP applicant pilot must meet the eligibility, knowledge, and experience requirements of 14 CFR Sections 61.153, 61.155, and 61.161. The Airline Transport Knowledge Test must be completed within 24 months before the date of the Practical Test.

Foreign (non-US) license holder applicants are welcome to apply but must hold either a foreign ATP license with instrument privileges, or a foreign commercial pilot license with an instrument rating, and a valid medical certificate. If a foreign license holder, the applicant must also hold a valid FAA license verification letter from AFB 720 that will cover the entirety of the course to be attended.

Non-US citizens must obtain US Department of Homeland Security TSA approval (Category 1 or 2) prior to receiving any flight instruction. Transportation, visa (if required), and lodging costs will be the responsibility of the applicant during the duration of the course.

Each applicant must be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed in accordance with Coptersafety’s training schedule and no later than December 31, 2025.
If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl member, you can join now.
Edward M. Thurn Memorial Scholarship
Since 2017, the Edward M. Thurn Trust has provided $15,000 to any Whirly-Girl to be applied toward upgrading her current helicopter rating. It may be applied toward commercial, instrument, flight instructor (CFI), instrument instructor (CFII), airline transport pilot (ATP), night vision goggle (NVG) or turbine transition training to advance a candidate’s helicopter career.

Edward M. Thurn, a strong advocate for advancing women in the aviation industry, joined the US Army in 1966, earning his wings in 1967 at Ft. Wolters, Texas. He held rotorcraft ATP and fixed-wing private pilot ratings with 9600 hours of flight time in 19 different models of aircraft. His aviation experiences were many: serving in Vietnam as a Huey UH-1 pilot, working as an air traffic controller in Indianapolis, flying missions for spraying, moving cargo, acting as a medevac with Evergreen Helicopters, serving as a corporate transport pilot with Paramount Aviation, flying with the National Guard, and serving as a Captain for Colgate-Palmolive Corporation.

Requirements: each applicant must be a helicopter pilot with at least a private pilot certificate/license. The applicant should clearly indicate in their submission how the training is expected to assist her in her helicopter aviation career. She must also be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed by December 31, 2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl member, you can join now.
FlightSafety International Bell 206/Bell 407 Scholarship
Sponsored by FlightSafety International, this scholarship is awarded to a Whirly-Girl who possesses at least a private pilot helicopter certificate and has landing currency in helicopters. This training program includes initial or recurrent training and includes focus on inadvertent IMC training in the Bell 206 or Bell 407 Flight Training Device. The five-day initial course consists of academic training and 6 hours in the FTD; the recurrent training is three days and 4.5 hours in the FTD. Training will be available at FlightSafety’s Helicopter Learning Center of Excellence in Lafayette, Louisiana, USA. Course value: $5,800

Requirements: the applicant must be a helicopter pilot with at least a private certificate/license. She must be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed by December 31, 2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl member, you can join now.
Garmin Aviation Online Training Course Scholarship
Garmin Aviation Training is providing TWO scholarships of the recipient's choice for the GTN Essentials 2.0 eLearning course, the G1000H NXi Fundamentals eLearning course, OR the G1000H NXi Advanced-IFR eLearning course. These courses provide comprehensive training on Garmin's aviation systems and devices for a variety of pilot usages and scenarios. Visit https:// www.garmin.com/en-US/search/?query=elearning to learn more about the value and applicability of each of these courses to your training and career.

Requirements: the applicant must be a Whirly-Girl or associate member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed by December 31, 2025. If you are not currently Whirly-Girl or Associate a member, you can join now.
Garmin GTN & Flight Display Pilot Training Course Scholarship
Garmin Aviation Training is providing THREE scholarships to Whirly-Girls or Associate members who wish to improve their knowledge in how to maximize the benefits of Garmin equipment capabilities and increase their confidence in the use and integration of Garmin equipment. Travel expenses including the cost of lodging, rental car, travel, and meal stipend will be coordinated and funded through the Garmin Aviation Training Department. International recipients will receive a flight stipend to assist with their travel costs. This course is valued at $750. Training will occur at Garmin!s headquarters in Olathe, Kansas. To learn more about this course, please visit https://www.garmin.com/en-US/ search/?query=gtn%20classes.

Requirements: the applicant must be a Whirly-Girl or associate member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed by December 31, 2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl or Associate member, you can join now.
Leading Edge Flight Academy and Central Oregon Community College Helicopter Instrument Rating Scholarship
Sponsored by Leading Edge Flight Academy & Central Oregon Community College, this scholarship provides a Whirly-Girl the opportunity to receive helicopter instrument rating training. Leading Edge Flight Academy provides 21 hours of flight training in the Robinson R44 and 30 hours of ground instruction. 14 hours of flight training in an Advanced Aviation Training Device (simulator) will be provided by Central Oregon Community College. Training will take place in Bend, Oregon, USA. Course value is approximately $18,475.

Requirements: each applicant must be a helicopter pilot with at least a private pilot certificate/license. She must also be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed by December 31, 2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl member, you can join now.
Leonardo Helicopters AW139 Flight Training Scholarship
Sponsored by Leonardo Helicopters, this scholarship provides TWO Whirly-Girls the opportunity to attend the AW139 factory type rating course in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Leonardo provides this 22-day course, valued at $71,900. This comprehensive, in-person course includes all ground training, full flight simulator, flight, skills assessments, and much more.

Requirements: the applicant must hold at least a valid FAA private certificate with Rotorcraft-Instrument and Rotorcraft-Helicopter ratings OR hold either a foreign ATP license with instrument privileges, or a foreign commercial pilot license with an instrument rating issued by a contracting State to the Convention on International Civil Aviation that contains no geographical limitations. Foreign license holders also require the following:
- A verification letter from the FAA's Airmen Certification Branch AFS-760 valid until the completion of the planned qualification event (Practical Test), and
- Proof of having passed the appropriate FAA written knowledge test within the preceding 24 calendar months before the completion of the planned practical test, and
- A valid foreign medical certificate. Preference will be given to applicants who have at least 1000 flight hours in helicopters and prior helicopter turbine experience. Transportation and lodging costs will be the responsibility of the candidate during the duration of the course. Each applicant must be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed in accordance with Leonardo Helicopter’s training schedule and no later than December 31, 2025.
If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl member, you can join now.
Leonardo Helicopters AW139 Full Airframe Maintenance Course Scholarship
Sponsored by Leonardo Helicopters, this scholarship provides TWO Whirly-Girls or female Associate members the opportunity to attend the complete AW139 Airframe Maintenance Course. This training will take place at the Training Academy located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and is valued at $45,700. Leonardo provides this 6-week course, which includes 4 weeks of in classroom theoretical training, and 2 weeks of hands-on training in the Maintenance Training Simulator (MTS).

Requirements: the applicant must hold a valid aircraft maintenance license (or international equivalent) or equivalent civil/military recognition document issued by the applicable National Authority and/or Regulatory Agency. Preference will be given to applicants with their full maintenance license; however, those with only airframe licenses will be considered. Applicants must be able to read/write and understand instructions in the English language and be available for training in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania for the duration of the course. Transportation and lodging costs will be at the responsibility of the candidate. Each applicant must be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed in accordance with Leonardo Helicopter’s training schedule and no later than December 31, 2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl or Associate member, you can join now.
Lora Trout Remembrance Initial or Commercial Training Scholarship
Sponsored by Panhandle Helicopter Academy, this scholarship is awarded to a Whirly-Girl or Associate member working towards achieving their Initial or Commercial Helicopter Rating and provides $6,000 in training to be conducted at Panhandle Helicopter Academy in Panama City Beach, FL. The applicant will be evaluated for evidence of intent to work in the helicopter industry and intent to complete the remainder of their helicopter ratings at Panhandle Helicopter Academy.

Sponsored by Panhandle Helicopter Academy, this scholarship is in remembrance of Lora Trout, WG#2101. Lora, a wildland fire rapeller, was working toward her dream of one day becoming a fire pilot when she tragically lost her life in a helicopter accident. She flew for Panhandle Helicopters during the 2021 tour season and became part of the Panhandle Helicopter family. Lora made friends wherever she went and was quickly making a name for herself in the aviation community. Panhandle Helicopter Academy says is their pleasure to offer this scholarship in honor of such a special person who meant so much to them.

This scholarship is awarded to a Whirly-Girl or Associate member working towards achieving their Initial or Commercial Helicopter Rating and provides $6,000 in training to be conducted at Panhandle Helicopter Academy in Panama City Beach, FL. The applicant will be evaluated for evidence of intent to work in the helicopter industry and intent to complete the remainder of their helicopter ratings at Panhandle Helicopter Academy.

Requirements: The applicant must hold a minimum of an FAA Third Class Medical certificate. International applicants are welcome but are responsible for their Flight Training Security Program (FTSP) Application to be able to train in the USA. The scholarship recipient will be responsible for their own transportation and accommodation costs. She must be a Whirly-Girl or Associate member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed by December 31, 2025. If you are not currently a member, you can join now.
MD Helicopters MD500 Flight Training Scholarship
Sponsored by MD Helicopters, this scholarship is awarded to a Whirly-Girl who possesses at least a private pilot helicopter certificate/license and has landing currency in helicopters. This training program includes initial type training or recurrent training in the MD500. This five-day course consists of academic training and 5 hours of flight time. Training will be available at MD Helicopter Headquarters in Mesa, Arizona, USA. Course value: $12,000.

Requirements: the applicant must be a helicopter pilot with at least a private certificate/license. She must be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed by December 31, 2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl member, you can join now.
Oregon Aero CRM/AMRM Instructor Training Scholarship
This remote learning, self-paced Crew Resource Management Instructor (CRMI) course, sponsored by Oregon Aero’s Randy Mains, will be awarded to THREE deserving Whirly-Girls. Recipients will be provided with a 300-page, color, CRMI manual along with a flash drive with over 5 GB of information, to include 14 digital PowerPoint instruction modules that follow the course manual, video clips, pictures, slides, and over 20 printable PDF files applicable to CRM subjects to facilitate the individuals’ self-study and future instruction when giving the course. Once the recipient has thoroughly studied all the material found in the manual fully, the course will culminate with 4 hours of instruction and to answer any questions via Zoom with Randy. The manual comes with a signed course certificate of completion. Preference will be given to applicants with a CFI certificate who have had some exposure to CRM course training.

Requirements: the applicant must be a helicopter pilot with at least a private certificate/license. Each applicant must be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed by December 31, 2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl member, you can join now.
PHI Aviation Bell 407 Scholarship
Sponsored by PHI Aviation, this scholarship provides TWO Whirly-Girls the opportunity to attend a Bell 407 Flight Training Course valued at $10,000. This five-day course includes 20 hours of ground school and 6 hours of flight training completed at FlightSafety International in Lafayette, Louisiana, and a tour of the PHI headquarters facility. This comprehensive, simulation-based course is designed to meet the professional training needs of all Bell 407 operators and provides instruction in the following subject areas: aircraft systems, hydraulics/flight controls, avionics, flight planning, performance, and much more.

Requirements: the applicant must be a commercial helicopter pilot with an instrument rating and a class I or II medical certificate. Preference will be given to those applicants who have at least 1200 flight hours in helicopters and are interested in working in the offshore oil industry. Each applicant must be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed by December 31, 2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl member, you can join now.
Robinson Helicopter R22/R44 Safety Course Scholarship
Sponsored by Robinson Helicopter Company (RHC), this scholarship provides a Whirly-Girl currently flying Robinsons the opportunity to attend the R22/R44 Safety Course and build either R22 or R44 time. RHC provides this 3.5-day course in Torrance, CA, USA, which includes an hour of flight with a safety instructor and sponsors an additional 4 hours of either R22 or R44 flight time (5 total hours). The course includes 3.5 days of classroom instruction in the following subject areas: accident review, causes of fatal accidents, awareness training, SFAR 73, and Pilot’s Operating Handbook (POH) review. One day is devoted to maintenance, pre-flight inspections, and flying with an experienced RHC safety pilot. A tour of the Robinson Factory is also included. The scholarship is open to any rated helicopter pilot who has at least 5 hours in the R22 or R44 helicopter, one hour of which was flown within 30 days prior to attending the course. This course is required by most insurance companies. Course valued at $3,750.

Requirements: each applicant must be a helicopter pilot with at least a private pilot certificate/license, preferably with an instrument rating, who is working towards their flight instructor certificate. The applicant must have at least 5 hours of model specific (R22/R44) Robinson Helicopter time. She must also be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed by December 31, 2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl member, you can join now.
Robinson Helicopter R66 Safety Course Scholarship
Sponsored by Robinson Helicopter Company (RHC), this scholarship provides a Whirly-Girl currently flying Robinsons the opportunity to attend the R66 Safety Course and build R66 time. RHC provides this 3.5-day course in Torrance, CA, USA, which includes an hour of flight with a safety instructor and an additional 4 hours of R66 flight time (5 hours total R66 flight time). The course includes 3.5 days of classroom instruction in the following subject areas: accident review, causes of fatal accidents, awareness training, SFAR 73, Pilot’s Operating Handbook (POH) review, R66 systems, and the Rolls Royce engine. One day is devoted to maintenance, pre-flight inspections, and flying with an experienced RHC safety pilot. A tour of the Robinson Factory is also included. The course is open to any rated helicopter pilot who has at least 3 hours in the Robinson R66 helicopter. A Robinson safety course is required by most insurance companies. Course valued at $5,270.

Requirements: each applicant must be a helicopter pilot with at least a commercial pilot certificate/license, preferably with an instrument rating, and is working towards their flight instructor certificate. The applicant must have at least 3 hours of model specific (R66) Robinson Helicopter time. She must also be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed by December 31, 2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl member, you can join now.
Survival Systems USA Aviation Survival & Egress Training
Survival Systems USA offers this course to TWO deserving Whirly-Girls to learn the knowledge and skills to react in an aircraft-ditching emergency, care for themselves in a sea survival situation, and to participate to the maximum extent in their rescue. This scholarship is valued at $1,890. Each pilot taking this course is required to have no physical limitations that would prevent her from participating in strenuous physical training and compressed air training. Training will take place at Survival Systems USA in Groton, Connecticut, USA.

Requirements: each applicant must be a helicopter pilot with at least a private pilot certificate/license. She must be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed by December 31, 2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl member, you can join now.
NEW PARTNERSHIP! Volo Mission & Timberline Vertical Reference/External Load Scholarship
This scholarship is sponsored by Volo Mission and Timberline to provide a career-minded Whirly-Girl who needs vertical reference/external load training for a flight position. This course includes 18 hours of flight time in the R44, 10 hours of classroom/ground instruction, and 3 hours of field operations instruction. You won’t need to be turbine qualified. Training must be completed at Volo Mission in Campbell, Texas, and accommodation is included. This course is valued at $20,500.

Requirements: the applicant must be a helicopter pilot with at least a commercial pilot certificate/license with at least 1000 hours total time. She must be a member in good standing at the time of application submission, award of scholarship, and during scholarship training, and must have joined the Whirly-Girls no later than the NEW deadline of October 4, 2024. Scholarship training must be completed by December 31, 2025. If you are not currently a Whirly-Girl member, you can join now.