HFI scholarships provide additional learning opportunities for aviation students.
Ethan Mutschler was always interested in aviation, but he didn’t decide to pursue it as a career until he had been working in other industries for several years. Once he married and thought of starting a family, Ethan decided to go back to school to pursue a better career in line with his long-term goals.
After researching the opportunities offered in aviation, he enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Aviation Maintenance Technology program at the Pennsylvania College of Technology in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.
Ethan is currently in his final year of school and pursuing his inspection authorization rating. In order to further his education, he applied for and won third place in the Bill Sanderson Aviation Maintenance Technician Scholarship offered by Helicopter Foundation International (HFI).
Sanderson scholarship winners can choose from a selection of maintenance courses offered by airframe and powerplant manufacturers. Ethan chose to attend the Pratt & Whitney PT6 engine course.
Ethan feels supported by his college instructors and the network of resources provided by the industry that encouraged him to expand and reinforce the training he received in the classroom. “Instructors in the aviation department have done an excellent job of providing us as students with the education needed to achieve success for when we enter the industry. Part of this is by providing numerous scholarship opportunities through numerous providers.”
While he finishes his studies, Ethan is working in a flex position with the Geisinger Life Flight maintenance team. He plans to get his inspection authorization once eligible and, eventually, to pursue his dream of becoming a pilot.
When asked his advice to those looking to enter the industry, Ethan says, “Work hard, set stepping stones and goals for yourself, and always be hungry to learn more!”
