Foster Youth Flying High and Pursuing Trades in Aviation Maintenance
These students are turning childhood dreams into real-world careers through their aviation major programs. With the support of the American Industries Scholarship and the BrandSource scholarship, they’re proving that determination and opportunity can take you far, on the ground and in the sky.
Mark – Airplane Repair & Manufacturing, Pulaski Tech
Mark’s passion for aviation started at airshows with his grandfather. “My foster family helped me see a better version of myself,” he shares. Though his dream of being a pilot shifted due to early health challenges, Mark found his calling in aircraft repair. Now working toward his airframe license, he’s determined to launch his career with a regional airline and eventually join American Airlines.
Owen – Aviation Maintenance, San Bernardino Valley College
Owen discovered his passion for aviation maintenance when his foster mom encouraged him to try college. “It’s hands-on, it’s technical, and it’s exactly the kind of challenge I was looking for,” he says. Despite ADHD and the ups and downs of foster care, Owen is pursuing certification as an A&P mechanic and dreams of starting his own aviation business one day.
Beating the Odds
College isn’t easy for anyone, but for students coming from foster care, the challenges can be overwhelming. Studies show that only about 50% of foster youth graduate high school, and fewer than 3% earn a college degree. Many face housing insecurity, financial strain, and a lack of family support systems to help them stay on track.
For students like Mark and Owen, these risks are very real. Yet with determination—and help from Foster Love supporters—they’ve found a way forward. The American Industries and BrandSource scholarships cover more than just tuition and tools. It provides stability, mentorship, and the encouragement to keep going when things get hard. These young scholars are proof that with the right support, foster youth can rise above the statistics, and soar.
