July 6, 2011 – The Professional Aviation Maintenance Association (PAMA) and the Professional Aviation Maintenance Association Foundation (PAMF) are pleased to announce Jason Asman as the winner of a new scholarship grant, thanks to the generous support of Sporty’s Foundation.

The Sporty ‘s Recreational Pilot grant provides $5,000 towards classes for Recreational Pilot certification to aviation maintenance professionals who are also PAMA members and works on aircraft under 6000 lbs. This unique program allows the winner to increase their value to their employer by having qualifications in both fields, as well as giving them access to the excitement of recreational flight.

Below is more information on the 2011 winner, Mr. Asman. If you have any questions about the Foundation or the Scholarships Program, please contact info@pama.org

Winner of the 2011 Sporty’s Pilot Shop Recreational Pilot Grant

Jason Asman, PAMA member and AMT, is the 2011 winner of the Sporty’s Foundation - $5,000 Recreational Pilot Grant administered by the PAMA Foundation.  He is a full time instructor in the Aviation Maintenance Technology Program at Reedley College in Reedley, California.    During the summer months he works as a part time AMT for Roger’s Helicopters and independently as an A&P/IA.

At Reedly College, Jason introduces many of his students to the first “taste” of aviation.  He states the majority of his students have never flown before.  During the first weeks of class, their airworthy Cessna 152 is used in ground operation and servicing as a taxi aircraft.  His desire is to have the ability to give many of his students their first flight ever.  He sees the Sporty’s Foundation grant as an excellent opportunity to really inspire his students to appreciate the importance of their role.

Jason believes becoming a pilot will afford him greater credibility with his students, as he often stresses the importance of understanding not only “how” to perform a task, but also “why” it is important.  He feels as both an AMT and pilot, he will be able to provide the bigger picture and give a greater depth of knowledge of the class.

On a personal note, Jason has always dreamt of becoming a pilot and although his path led him down a different road, he believes great organizations like PAMA and Sporty’s Foundation provide opportunities that make dreams come true.  “Becoming a pilot may be my dream, but it is also an important tool that will not only benefit me as an AMT and instructor, it will benefit hundreds of students and their careers for years to come.”