Willard G. Plentl Sr. Aviation Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by Virginia Department of Aviation
Willard G. Plentl Sr., a native of Houston, Texas, began pilot training with the Army Air Corps in 1942. He enjoyed a distinguished military flying career that included service during the Korean War and experience in a wide range of aircraft, from trainers to bombers and fighters. After leaving active duty as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1962, he joined the Commonwealth of Virginia as Assistant Director of the Division of Aeronautics within the Virginia State Corporation Commission. He was named Director of Aeronautics in 1964. In 1970 he served on the President’s Aviation Advisory Commission, contributing to policy that influenced the nation’s aviation system. Mr. Plentl retired from the Virginia Department of Aviation in 1984, the same year he was inducted into the Virginia Aviation Hall of Fame. He passed away on May 19, 2005, leaving a legacy of exemplary service to aviation and 22 years of service to the Commonwealth of Virginia.
In his memory, the Willard G. Plentl Aviation Scholarship was created to support students pursuing aviation careers outside of engineering.
Scholarship overview and eligibility
- Award: $3,000.
- Recipient: One Virginia high school senior each year.
- Career focus: Applicants must be preparing for an aviation-related, non-engineering program (examples include, but are not limited to, professional pilots, aviation maintenance technicians, aviation managers).
- Admission requirement: A certificate or other proof of acceptance into a non-engineering aviation postsecondary program is required.
- Academic requirement: Minimum unweighted GPA of 3.5.
- Renewal: The $3,000 award is renewable.
Application checklist (all items must be submitted)
1. Complete the scholarship application form.
2. Have a guidance counselor or other authorized high school official sign any required certifications on the application.
3. Include an official copy of your current high school transcript and documentation verifying acceptance/enrollment in a postsecondary institution or program.
4. Provide a typed, double-spaced essay of between 350 and 500 words on the topic: "Why I Wish to Pursue a Career in Aviation."
5. Attach up to three recommendation letters, plus a single typed page (maximum) that lists school-related and extracurricular activities demonstrating accomplishments and leadership.
6. Mail the complete application package (all documents listed above).
Note: Follow any additional submission instructions on the application form and be sure materials are complete and legible before mailing.