Aviation student’s pilot training off to a flying start

Aviation student’s pilot training off to a flying start

Five eager aviation students have received scholarships from Leidos Australia that will support budding pilots to complete their studies.

The students, Ashwini Fredrick, Kynan Munday, India Wallace, Amber Kennet and another student who requested anonymity, were awarded the scholarships after undergoing multiple application and interview stages. 

The scholarship includes additional flight training in the specialised skillset Leidos requires in their pilot workforce, including search and rescue. Students receive a unique internship opportunity to put these skills into practice.  

Amber Kennett is in her second year of an Associate Degree of Aviation (Professional Piloting) and was thrilled to receive a scholarship. 

“I was inspired to apply as I have always hoped to use my aviation skills to benefit others,” Amber said. 

“The Leidos scholarship offers a perfect combination of flying whilst being part of mission operations that benefit the Australian community through border security and search and rescue services.” 

Amber is wearing her aviation uniform and is standing in front of a small plane Amber Kennett studies Aviation at RMIT's Bendigo campus.

Amber and her fellow scholarship recipients will undertake additional flight training with the Leidos Dash 8 fleet, meaning they will graduate next year with more diverse aircraft experience. 

“I am looking forward to working within a professional and motivated team at Leidos, which I hope will vastly extend my aviation knowledge and develop my technical, practical and industry related skills,” she said. 

Amber’s interest in studying aviation was sparked by her participation in an aviation camp during her high school years. 

“One of my favourite stages of flight is the take-off, with the exhilarating build-up of power that allows the aircraft to become airborne,” she said. 

“I’ve always been interested in learning about the aerodynamics and aircraft systems which allows flying to be possible.” 

When asked what she would tell any aspiring pilots thinking about studying aviation, Amber said to go for it. 

“Many people say, ‘if you love what you do, you never work a day in your life’ and if aviation is something that you’re passionate about, then considering it as a career is a great idea,” she said. 

“Aviation is both challenging and rewarding, but with dedication, vision and goals it is a very worthwhile and exciting path to follow!” 

 

Story by: Sheridan van Gelderen

22 July 2024

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22 July 2024

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