The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is looking to enhance the development of the next generation of aviation professionals through the introduction of two scholarship programs. According to the FAA, these initiatives aim to diversify the pilot and aviation maintenance technician sector.

The FAA introduced the Aircraft Pilots Workforce Development Grants and the Aviation Maintenance Technical Workers Workforce Development Grants. The former supports programs that educate students to become pilots, aerospace engineers, or unmanned aircraft systems operators. The latter funds programs that prepare individuals to become aviation maintenance technicians.

Eligible organizations can apply for these grants through the official government website, www.grants.gov, until August 16, 2023. According to the FAA, these organizations stand a chance to receive up to $500,000 for each grant per fiscal year.

The FAA’s initiative builds upon its efforts from the previous year, during which it awarded $10 million in grants to more than 20 schools and organizations.

Detailed information about the grants, including eligibility criteria, deadlines, and application procedures, are available in the Notice of Funding Opportunity for each grant. The FAA emphasizes that it is committed to ensuring a fair and open competition for these grants.

The FAA encourages aspiring applicants to review the guidelines, eligibility requirements, and answers to frequently asked questions available on the site to assist them in completing their grant application.

Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that in 2021 there were 47,700 commercial pilots, a figure projected to grow to 50,100 by 2031. Consultancy firm OliverWyman estimates that North America could face a shortage of 30,000 pilots by 2032.

According to a report from the Los Angeles Times, airlines have for years benefited from the stream of pilots coming from the military, but these forces are facing their own shortage of around 1,900 professionals.