2009 ERAU/FATA Scholarship Awarded

Wayne Williams - FATA Scholarship Recipient

          FATA is proud to have established a partnership with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University to provide funding for students seeking an aviation career. In his own words, Mr. Williams, the 2009 Scholarship recipient,  shares his dreams and plans for a career in aviation.

I dream of soaring to the highest point in all areas of my life. Ever since I was young, this desire to succeed has given me the motivation I need to stay focused and do my best in all areas of my life. I have always wanted to be the one person in my family who succeeds in making a positive impact in my community. For this reason, I have never settled for taking "the easy route," because I knew I needed the best preparation to fulfill my goals. My name is Wayne Williams, and I am in Aeronautical Science Degree Program at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. My purpose in writing this essay is to tell the committee about myself, my chosen field for future study, and my future goals in life.

First, I am a highly intelligent young man from Atlanta, Georgia. I love flying, playing sports, and spending time with my wife. I am a single and multi-engine commercial and instrument rated pilot. I am currently working on my certified flight instructor rating with an expected completion date of November 20, 2009. Presently, I am balancing extracurricular and academic activities as I work part-time at U-Haul as a customer service representative. I also contribute greatly to numerous student organizations such as Airline Owners and Pilots Association, National Engineering Society, and Organization of Black Airline Pilots. This commitment to success has rewarded me with a number of awards and distinctive honors including the Dean’s list, Honor Roll, and the National Scholars Honors Society.

I am highly dedicated and motivated in achieving academic excellence as I pursue my Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Science with a minor in Air Traffic Control. Upon graduation, I plan to share my love for aviation as a full-time flight instructor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. After accumulating required flight time, I will apply for a regional carrier’s first officer position. I will continue my climb in the aviation industry until my long term goal, Captain and safety officer for United States Parcel Service or FedEx Express, is achieved. For these reasons, I value hard work and give my very best effort in all that I do. As a student at Embry-Riddle, I have decided that anything less than excellence is not an option. I want to be a successful entity that will have a profound impact on the world. I strongly believe that all my goals will be accomplished with the financial help of the FATA Scholarship.

For over 60 years, Florida Aviation Trades Association has dedicated time, effort, and funds to their mission of advancing and enhancing the aviation industry in Florida. Each year this renowned organization protects, advocates, and supports the interest of Florida’s aviation community. I am very humble and proud to be an applicant of this renowned scholarship. It would be my honor to be listed amongst the talented students who have received this reward before me. I will uphold the prestige of this accolade with all my heart.

For the above reasons, I will serve as a valuable recipient for this prestigious scholarship. I have exhibited the ability to manage co-curricular and extra-curricular activities while maintaining academic integrity. By receiving this award, I will be able to meet my educational and professional goals simultaneously. This scholarship will help pay the additional expenses I will need to attend college and ultimately reach my career aspirations. Thanks in advance for your support. I promise my accomplishment will make you proud.