The Jim Patterson Memorial Scholarship
Thrust Institute of Maintenance is excited to announce the Jim Patterson Memorial Scholarship, offering aspiring aviation maintenance professionals an opportunity to kickstart their journey into becoming an aviation maintenance technician (AMT).
About the Scholarship
In honor of the memory and legacy of Jim Patterson, a brilliant individual whose passion for aviation and technical prowess left an indelible mark on all who knew him, we are proud to announce the establishment of the Jim Patterson Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship is dedicated to supporting aspiring aviation maintenance technicians who share Jim’s commitment to excellence and innovation in aircraft maintenance.
Scholarship Details
The Jim Patterson Aviation Maintenance Technician Scholarship is a $2,500 scholarship designed to support students who are enrolling in the Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) program at the Thrust Institute of Maintenance. This scholarship is open to all eligible candidates who share a genuine passion for aviation maintenance and a commitment to making a difference in the industry.
Eligibility
- Open to all applicants, regardless of gender or background.
- Academic excellence and a strong passion for aviation maintenance are highly regarded.
- Attending the Thrust Institute AMT Program.
Application Process
To apply for the scholarship, interested candidates should complete the application form below and submit it along with the following information:
- A personal statement (maximum 500 words) explaining their passion for aviation maintenance and career aspirations in the field.
- Two letters of recommendation from educators, professionals, or mentors who can attest to the applicant’s qualifications and potential in aviation maintenance. While this is not required it is highly encouraged.
Application Deadline: September 24, 2023
Award Announcement: September 29, 2023
Award Distribution: November 6, 2023
We believe in the importance of diversity and inclusion within the aviation industry and are committed to providing opportunities for all talented individuals who aspire to contribute to the field of aviation maintenance.
This scholarship is a testament to our dedication to building the next generation of aviation maintenance professionals. We look forward to supporting passionate and driven individuals on their journey to excellence in aviation maintenance.
Please use the form below to submit your application for the Thrust Institute AMT Scholarship.
After you submit your application, members of our team will review it. We will announce the winner at our open house on September 29, 2023.
Submit Your Application
About Jim Patterson
Jim Patterson was not just a man of many talents; he was a true genius. From a young age, he displayed an insatiable curiosity and an innate ability to understand and build things. His journey into aviation and aircraft maintenance began with a deep fascination for how things worked, which led him to disassemble a lawnmower engine at the age of 14, only to reassemble it flawlessly.
His technical skills were quickly recognized, and he found himself repairing small engines during his summer breaks, a testament to his hands-on expertise. Jim’s extraordinary ability to conceptualize and bring to life intricate projects led him to build everything from printed circuit boards to homemade 2-meter ham radio transceivers, all with a level of precision and craftsmanship that astounded those around him.
Jim’s passion for aviation was unwavering, and he pursued his dream of becoming a pilot with unwavering determination. He retired early to build his own aircraft, a one-seater CX5, from scratch, which not only fueled his love for flying but also enhanced his maintenance capabilities. His dedication to learning and improving himself led to him obtaining a pilot’s license, a cherished achievement he held until his last day.
In 2011, Jim married the love of his life, Beverly, and together they embarked on countless memorable adventures. Their shared love for aviation and their SportCruiser aircraft became a defining feature of their life together. The bond between Jim and Beverly shone brightly, eclipsing even Jim’s deep love for aviation. Their travels in their SportCruiser were not just journeys through the skies; they were journeys through life, filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams.
Jim’s commitment to excellence extended to aircraft maintenance, and he graduated with honors from an aircraft maintenance technician school. His exceptional knowledge and skills were further acknowledged when he achieved a perfect score on his tests, earning the respect of even the FAA officials.
Jim’s journey didn’t stop there; he continued to expand his horizons and became a certified Stemme technician during a trip to Germany. His life was a testament to his boundless curiosity and his ability to transform his workshop into a maintenance hub filled with equipment he built himself. Jim’s legacy is not just one of technical brilliance but of kindness, generosity, and good character. He was a beloved friend and family member, known for his gentle nature and his willingness to help others. Jim Patterson is a shining example of what one can achieve through a combination of passion, dedication, and a lifelong commitment to learning.
