Wings, Wheels and Water

EAA’s POST-SECONDARY SCHOLARSHIPS

Posted on by

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

COLLEGIATE AVIATION STUDENTS GET A BOOST WITH EAA’s POST-SECONDARY SCHOLARSHIPS

More than $75,000 in scholarship funds now available; application deadline January 31

EAA AVIATION CENTER, OSHKOSH, Wisconsin — (November 21, 2018) — More than $75,000 is now available to assist current and incoming college students who are seeking a degree in aviation-related fields, through post-secondary scholarships administered through the Experimental Aircraft Association.

Applications are now open for all of the scholarships at EAA.org/scholarships. The application deadline for the 2019-2020 school year is January 31, 2019. These financial awards are available for studies that include pilot training, aeronautics engineering, aviation management, airframe-and-powerplant (A&P) certification, and more.

“EAA has long been committed to providing pathways for those who seek aviation-related careers,” said Ken Strmiska, EAA’s vice president of philanthropy and donor stewardship. “Through the generosity of EAA members and donors who believe in the concept of ‘passing it forward,’ we support those who will be the next generation of pilots and aviation professionals. We encourage interested students to apply as soon as possible to be considered for these financial awards.”

EAA also welcomes and encourages inquiries from EAA members and other aviation enthusiasts who are interested in providing additional scholarship opportunities for those studying in various aviation fields. More information on creating scholarships is available through EAA’s development office at 800-236-1025 or development@EAAdonor.org.

About EAA

EAA embodies The Spirit of Aviation through the world’s most engaged community of aviation enthusiasts. EAA’s 219,000 members and 900 local chapters enjoy the fun and camaraderie of sharing their passion for flying, building and restoring recreational aircraft. For more information on EAA and its programs, call 800-JOIN-EAA (800-564-6322) or go to www.eaa.org. For continual news updates, connect with www.twitter.com/EAA.

Boat Show Season

Posted on by

Boat Show Season

Question: Its almost boat show season around the country!  I like attending the show in our area.  However, sometimes I am overwhelmed with all the things to see.  Since you go to many events, any advice on what is the best way to get the most out of a boat show.

Answer: Boy, that is a wide open question. First you have to ask yourself why you are attending a boat show (or any show for that matter). Are you attending as new buyer looking for a new boat?  On the other hand, are you attending as an owner looking to upgrade what you already have or just add on to your equipment?  Maybe you are a manufacturer or dealer…. that is a completely different reason.

My situation is even different from that.  I am looking for new products, new boats and new companies.  I am interested in anything that might be of interest to my customers and readers.  I like to keep up with the industry and review new products or boats.  I am also looking for things I want for myself.   I also look for shows that will allow me to give seminars and promote my books.

Of course, I am always looking for a location that I like to visit.  I like the local shows but that is not the same as taking a trip to a distant location and using it like a working vacation.  (Just don’t tell my wife how much fun these shows are!)

One of my favorite shows is the Miami International Boat Show in February (2/14/2019 – 2/18/2019).  Look up their schedules at www.miamiboatshow.com.

boat show season

While I no longer give seminars at the Miami Show it is still a huge show with more things than you can see in a couple days.  Plus its Miami, a great place for boats, food and cigars.

That said, it is probably best to decide why you are at the show and establish an agenda for the time you will be attending.   Reviewing or looking at a boat can take a significant amount of time.  Plan your time accordingly.  In most cases you will want to look over the boat, listen to the sales pitch and, if possible, try it out on the water.

Because it will be a time consuming experience, do a little research ahead of time.  Review models and manufacturers that you have an interest in, on the manufacturers website or at a local dealer.  Go to the website for the show or event you will be attending and get a copy of the exhibitors list.  Review the exhibitor list and rank the manufacturers or dealers by your interest.  It sounds like a lot of work but if you prioritize the models you want to see, you can spend less time wandering the exhibits and more time shopping.  You will also find that you will probably have more time to leisurely enjoy the show once you have achieved your “requirements”.

If you are looking at products or upgrades to your existing boat, it is a variation of the same agenda.  Look through the exhibitor lists and develop a plan and route through the exhibit area.  It is also important to keep track of other things that might be of interested as you are looking at the exhibitor list or walking around.  You can always come back to a booth or visit the company’s website later (or back in your hotel room!).

Its a great experience even if you arent shopping for anything in particular.

boat show

Can I commute with an airplane?

Posted on by

Commute with a plane?

Q. Can I commute with an airplane?  I have always wanted to get my private pilot’s license. I was offered a new job, but it is two hours away from my house. I was thinking of getting a license so I can fly instead of drive.  Am I being unrealistic? I know I would need to have a backup plan for driving for when the weather is unfavorable and a place to stay near my new job. But the idea sounds like more fun then setting in traffic.

A. It can actually be a great idea, although it might not save you as much time as you think. I have a few customers that do exactly what you are talking about and they really like the arrangement. Problem is, it often takes more time to get the plane out, fly and put it away than it would to drive the distance.

Also, to  make it a success you will probably need to get instrument rating.  There will be some days that there is just enough weather to keep you on the ground when you could still be flying.

But really, even if it takes longer, I cannot think of a better commute!

commute