PRESS RELEASE
The Reno Air Racing Association (RARA), the organization that has produced the legendary National Championship Air Races (NCAR) since 1964, continues to propel the future of aviation by expanding its highly successful scholarship program. Since 2022, RARA has awarded 33 scholarships of $10,000 each to aspiring pilots pursuing their Private Pilot Certificates. In 2024 alone, RARA provided 13 additional scholarships to local youth, reinforcing its commitment to supporting the next generation of aviation professionals.
Building upon this legacy, RARA is thrilled to announce a new Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Scholarship in partnership with Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell (ENMU-Roswell). This scholarship is designed for students enrolled in ENMU-Roswell’s FAA Part 147-certified Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) program, the only program of its kind in Southeast New Mexico. The A&P Scholarship will provide financial assistance covering tuition, tooling, supplies, and testing fees, up to $10,000 per student.
“The Reno Air Racing Association has always been dedicated to fostering the next generation of aviation professionals, and this scholarship is another step toward ensuring the industry has highly trained and qualified mechanics,” said Fred Telling, CEO and Chairman of RARA. “Aircraft maintenance is a crucial component of aviation safety, and we are proud to support students pursuing this essential career path.”
The scholarship is open to Chaves County and Southeastern New Mexico residents who maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and 80% attendance throughout the AMT program. “This scholarship is an incredible opportunity for our students,” said Dr. Shawn Powell, President of ENMU-Roswell. “Many aspiring aviation maintenance professionals face financial obstacles, and this program will help alleviate that burden. We are grateful to RARA for investing in the education and future of our students.”
By expanding its scholarship offerings to include aviation maintenance, RARA continues its mission of ensuring a strong and skilled workforce for the aviation industry. The organization remains committed to opening doors for students who dream of a career in aviation, whether in the cockpit or behind the scenes ensuring aircraft safety and efficiency. For more information about RARA’s scholarship programs, visit www.airrace.org. To learn more about ENMU-Roswell’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program, visit www.roswell.enmu.edu .
About the National Championship Air Races
The National Championship Air Races are held every September by the Reno Air Racing Association, a 501(c)(3). The event has become an international institution and destination for aviation enthusiasts with seven racing classes, a large display of static aircraft along with notable military and civilian flight demonstrations. Independent economic impact studies show that the event has generated as much as $150 million annually for the local economy. After being based in Reno, NV for more than 60 years, the event will debut in its new location, Roswell, NM in 2025.For more information on the National Championship Air Races, visit AirRace.org.
