Seven Certified Aviation Manager Scholarships Awarded at NBAA-BACE

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The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) today announced at its Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) that seven scholarships have been awarded to current and aspiring Certified Aviation Managers (CAMs). These scholarships, which are given annually, promote professional development in business aviation by providing financial support for qualified CAM exam candidates.

Jake Cartwright Leadership Scholarship

The Jake Cartwright Scholarship, which is underwritten by Solairus Aviation, funds the CAM certification costs for candidates who demonstrate exceptional leadership qualities. The scholarship is named in honor of Solairus Vice Chairman Jake Cartwright, a highly respected business aviation leader and U.S. Marine Corps veteran who has championed the industry for decades. This year's recipients are: 

  • Carrie Wicht, is a corporate flight travel coordinator and FAA-licensed dispatcher for Harley-Davidson Motor Company. By obtaining her CAM certification, Wicht aims to “foster the professional principles and values that are paramount to a good manager, including vision, integrity, commitment, excellence and professionalism.”
  • Kevin Fetsko, director of global flight operations for The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, seeks the additional knowledge and tools to properly execute the flight department mission by completing the CAM program.
  • Stephen Senyszyn, a corporate pilot typed in the Global Express, Challenger 600/601, LR-Jet Lear Jet series and Citation Mustang, said that earning his CAM certificate is the “next step” in advancing his career into aircraft management.

Certified Aviation Manager Scholarship

The Certified Aviation Manager Scholarship was established in 2014 to benefit individuals seeking to become CAMs, as well as current CAMs in the process of renewing their certification. The scholarship promotes professional development in business aviation by providing financial support for qualified CAM exam candidates and current CAMs. This year’s recipients are:

  • Tamara Collum, a contract flight attendant with Jet Professionals, said that completing a CAM certification would allow her to mentor and motivate flight attendants to accomplish goals while working to change the cultural perception of the third crewmember.
  • Tim Johnson, chief pilot – turbine flight operations for Purdue University, said the CAM certification will allow him to “positively influence and educate the hundreds of students I come into contact with everyday.”
  • Michelle Dina, director of sales and business development for Wyvern Ltd., said it is critically important to reach the young future leaders of our industry, and being CAM certified would allow her to teach professionalism and a commitment to excellence to them at a young age.

C&W Family Scholarship

NBAA Charities and the C&W Family annually awards up to $2,500 to one business aviation professional seeking continued professional development opportunities to advance their existing careers. The scholarship selection committee will focus on applicants that are able to express their dedication to furthering the business aviation industry. This year’s recipient is:

  • Erica LeBarron, executive assistant to leadership at Worldwide Jet Charter, is currently enrolled at Embryâ€?Riddle Aeronautical University working toward her master’s degree in aviation business management, and aspires to “continue expanding the role of women in aviation and serve as a role model for others.”

The 2018 scholarship winner will be officially announced during NBAA-BACE at the annual “Meet the CAM Governing Board” session, taking place Wednesday Oct. 17 from 4:15-5 p.m. at the Connection Zone, NBAA Booth No. 281.

The CAM credential provides a clear industry standard for preparation and achievement in aviation management. The CAM program is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, and is the first program in the aviation industry to receive this recognition. The CAM exam is available throughout the year in a computer-based testing format. To be eligible for the exam, participants must be pre-qualified and approved through a formal application process. Learn more about the CAM Program.

NBAA Charities offers monetary and training scholarships for both students and aviation professionals, such as flight department managers, pilots, maintenance technicians, schedulers, dispatchers, flight attendants and flight technicians. These scholarships, which total nearly $100,000 annually, are administered by NBAA standing committees and would not be possible without the generous financial support of NBAA member donors. Learn more about scholarships offered by NBAA Charities.