The South County Airport Pilots Association (SCAPA) proudly announces the recipients of its 2025 Aviation Scholarships, awarding five $3,000 scholarships to exceptional students pursuing flight and maintenance training across the South Bay region.
This year’s program drew the largest and most competitive pool of applicants in SCAPA history, underscoring the depth of aviation talent emerging from the local community. Each applicant demonstrated remarkable passion, persistence, and vision for their future in aviation.
2025 SCAPA Scholarship Recipients
• Stacey Rangel — San José State University Professional Flight Program, Private Pilot Training, Reid-Hillview Airport.
A former active-duty aircraft mechanic and current U.S. Air Force Reservist, Stacey is taking her technical background to the skies as she trains for her Private Pilot Certificate.
• Juan Hernandez — San José State University Professional Flight Program, Reid-Hillview Airport.
Juan is currently pursuing his Commercial Multi-Engine license and serves as Captain of the SJSU Precision Flight Team, leading by example through teamwork and professionalism.
• Kaitlyn McMahon — San José State University Professional Flight Program.
Working toward her Instrument Rating, Kaitlyn embodies focus and dedication, balancing academics with flight training as she advances her aviation career.
• Brian Hsu — Gavilan College Aviation Maintenance Technology Program.
Brian is training to earn his FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certification, with plans to apply his skills in the growing field of aircraft maintenance.
• Corinne Arthur — Gavilan College Aviation Maintenance Technology Program.
Corinne is pursuing her A&P license and represents the next generation of skilled technicians keeping aircraft safe and airworthy.
Investing in Local Aviation Education
The Gavilan College Aviation Maintenance Technology Program, located at San Martin Airport (E16), provides hands-on technical training that leads to FAA certification — preparing students for in-demand maintenance careers that are essential to the safety and sustainability of aviation.The San José State University (SJSU) Aviation Program is among the oldest collegiate aviation programs in the nation, offering degree specializations in professional flight, aviation management, maintenance management, and flight operations. Graduates have gone on to successful careers as airline pilots, airport managers, and aerospace leaders.
Building the Future of Flight
SCAPA’s annual scholarships are funded through community donations, sponsorships, and proceeds from the organization’s Food-Truck Fly-In and Airport Day, held each fall at San Martin Airport. This year’s event will take place on Saturday, November 1, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring aircraft displays, show cars, local vendors, and family activities. SCAPA will also honor its 2025 scholarship winners during the event. “Every dollar raised goes right back into helping students like these,” said Food Truck Fly-in Co-Chair, David Stites. “By investing in education and training, we’re investing in the future of general aviation.”
For more information about SCAPA, its scholarship program, or ways to support local aviation education, visit www.scpilots.org.