Edward W. Stimpson Aviation Excellence Award
Scholarship Sponsored by General Aviation Manufacturers Association
Overview
This award is intended for a U.S. high school senior graduating in Spring 2026 who has been accepted to — and plans to enroll in — a college or university program that provides a core aviation degree.
Scholarship amount
$2,000
About GAMA and the award
The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) is a global trade organization focused on promoting the welfare, safety, and interests of the business and general aviation sectors worldwide. GAMA’s membership includes more than 140 leading producers of general aviation aircraft, engines, avionics, and components, as well as companies operating maintenance facilities, fixed-base operators, aircraft fleets, and pilot and training services. Each year GAMA presents the Edward W. Stimpson Aviation Excellence Award to support and encourage careers in general aviation.
Eligibility
To be eligible, an applicant must:
- Be enrolled in a U.S. high school and scheduled to graduate in Spring 2026.
- Have been accepted to — and intend to enroll in — an aviation-related degree program at an accredited college or university. Examples include flight training, aviation management, aerospace engineering, and aviation maintenance.
- Hold a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
Application requirements
Applicants must submit the following materials:
1. Completed application form
2. Response to the essay prompt
3. Official or current high school transcript
4. Up to two letters of recommendation (maximum two)
Selection criteria
Candidates will be reviewed based on academic performance, participation in extracurricular activities, and the quality of their essay response.