What is the CloudDancer Scholarship?
The Ashton Johnson Memorial Scholarship supports U.S. military veterans pursuing careers in aviation. We seek applicants who demonstrate honorable service, strong character, and a clear commitment to earning their Private Pilot certification.
The application window for the CloudDancer Scholarship is currently closed. We will begin accepting new applications in Spring 2026. We appreciate your interest and encourage you to check back for updates.
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Donate NowPilot Scholarship Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
Pilot Certification
- Must not currently hold an FAA Airman Certificate for pilot privileges at the Private Pilot level or higher.
Military Service
- Must be a current or former member of the U.S. Military with an honorable discharge if not active or retired.
Medical Certification
Must hold a valid FAA Airman Medical Certificate for 1st or 2nd Class privileges at the time of application and selection.
- Please review CFR 61.23 if you have questions about medical requirements.
Written Exam
- Must have passed the Private Pilot written exam within the preceding 12 calendar months.
Application Materials
Complete the full scholarship application, including all prerequisite questions and references.
Submit a one-page essay that details:
- Your background (both military and personal).
- Your reason for applying.
- Why you are an ideal candidate.
- How you plan to utilize the scholarship.
Selection Process
After the initial review, a select group of applicants will be invited to continue in the evaluation process, which includes:
- An interview with a member (or members) of the selection committee.
- Possible follow-up interviews or requests for additional information.
Selected finalists will be required to:
- Sign a notarized statement of acceptance of the scholarship Terms and Conditions.
- Agree to scholarship completion goals, expectations, and administrative requirements.
Final recipients will be announced after completion of the selection process.
Scholarship Award Structures
Pilot Scholarship
In 2026, five pilot scholarships will be awarded, each valued at $17,500. Funds are distributed in phases as recipients complete the following training milestones:
Aviation Maintenance Technician Scholarship
Five Aviation Maintenance Technician scholarships will be awarded in 2026, each valued at $5,000. These scholarships are designed to support veterans pursuing certification and careers in aircraft maintenance and technical aviation fields.
2025 Scholarship Recipients
