The Lyons Aviation Foundation is pleased to present our 2026 scholarship recipients! Amid the many applications that we received this year, the selection committee determined that these recipients demonstrated desire, motivation and determination, in addition to their many achievements, aligned with our foundation’s goal to financially support aspiring young aviators in pursuit of a Private Pilot rating.
Five aspiring pilots from across the United States were selected:
- Tyler Braitling, 17 – Jeffersonville, IN | $3,000 scholarship | 40+ flight hours, soloed, Air Force JROTC leader pursuing USAFA and pro pilot career.
- Destiny Watford, 18 – Arlington, TX | $2,500 scholarship | Working toward PPL while balancing academics and fundraising, with goals in commercial aviation.
- Miller Watkins, 17 – Conyers, GA | $1,500 scholarship | OBAP Academy participant and student-athlete pursuing a pilot career and greater industry diversity.
- Mia Green, 16 – Valparaiso, IN | $1,500 scholarship | Civil Air Patrol cadet and flight student focused on aviation leadership, service, and mentorship.
- Corbin Schleicher, 16 – Mitchell, NE | $1,500 scholarship | Rural Nebraska student building an aviation future centered on service and community impact.
2026 Scholarship Recipients
Posted: April 25, 2026 by lyonsaviation
The Lyons Aviation Foundation is pleased to present our 2026 scholarship recipients! Amid the many applications that we received this year, the selection committee determined that these recipients demonstrated desire, motivation and determination, in addition to their many achievements, aligned with our foundation’s goal to financially support aspiring young aviators in pursuit of a Private Pilot rating.
Five aspiring pilots from across the United States were selected:
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