CHARLESTON — The South Carolina Aviation Association (SCAA) has announced its 2025 scholarship recipients, recognizing six standout students from across the state who are taking flight toward careers in aviation.
The scholarships, funded by donations and special events such as a golf outing sponsored by WK Dickson and a silent auction held during the association’s annual conference, are designed to support students studying flight, aircraft maintenance, and aerospace.
“This program is an investment in the future workforce of our state’s airports,” said SCAA President James Stephens. “We are proud to support these aspiring professionals as they advance their education and careers.”
Meet the 2025 Recipients:
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Atticus Ralph, a student at Charleston Southern University, is working toward a degree that includes flight labs. A licensed private pilot since high school, Ralph’s goal is to become a commercial pilot.
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Rankin Wilcher, also at Charleston Southern University, is an incoming freshman pursuing a degree in Professional Pilot Aeronautics. He plans to become a flight instructor on his way to joining a commercial airline.
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Caleb Helms, studying aircraft maintenance at the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics (PIA) in Myrtle Beach, is preparing for General and Powerplant (A&P) certifications to launch a career in aviation repair and safety.
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Sean Kessler, also at PIA Myrtle Beach, is training to be an A&P mechanic. Formerly a ramp agent, Kessler discovered a passion for aviation and is focused on keeping aircraft safe and airworthy.
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Davis Maldonado, a University of South Carolina (USC) student majoring in Geography with a minor in Climate and Society, is completing his flight training at Propel Aviation. Inspired by his family’s history in aviation, Maldonado plans to build flight hours as an instructor before aiming for a seat in the cockpit of a commercial airliner.
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William Edwards, an aerospace engineering student at USC, blends academics and leadership while exploring both military and civilian pathways toward a career in aviation.
The SCAA encourages students with a passion for aviation to apply for future scholarships. To learn more or to contribute to the scholarship fund, visit scaaonline.com/scholarship.
