Award Winners
Index
In 2025, $25,000 was awarded to 8 applicants
Bethany Lindberg
Las Vegas, NV
Awarded $5,000
A native of Cloquet, Minnesota, Bethany’s path to the cockpit was solidified during a transformative chance encounter over pizza in Germany, which led her to volunteer at MN ACE Camp. While she has spent the past eleven years traveling the globe as a flight attendant, it was the infectious enthusiasm of the campers and the supportive community at ACE that inspired her to finally transition from the cabin to the flight deck. Now based in Las Vegas, Bethany has taken the leap into flight training and is currently working toward her Private Pilot Certificate. With a deep-seated passion for mentorship, she aims to show others that there is no single mold for a student pilot. The Elevate Award will support her transition to a Part 141 flight school, directly funding her Instrument and Commercial ratings as she pursues her dream of becoming a commercial airline pilot.
Jordan Rosen
Mayer, MN
Awarded $3,750
Jordan’s passion for aviation began in childhood, where countless hours playing Microsoft Flight Simulator with a friend sparked a dream of becoming a professional pilot. After high school, he enlisted in the Army Reserve and earned his Private Pilot License, but deployment to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and financial hurdles temporarily paused his aviation pursuit. Now, after a successful career in carpentry and service as an infantry team leader in the Minnesota National Guard, Jordan is fully committed to a career change. He recently traded his woodworking skills for access to aircraft at the Rangers Flying Club. The Elevate Award will fund his checkride fees, as he works his way from Instrument through his CFII, allowing him to focus full-time on his training at ATP Flight School and achieve his goal of becoming a corporate jet pilot.
Traci Ablahani
Henderson, NV
Awarded $3,750
Traci Ablahani’s 24-year aviation journey began when she was recruited to Southwest Airlines, where she currently serves as a Flight Attendant. Transforming personal hardships into resilience, Traci discovered a renewed purpose in the cockpit and is now fully dedicated to the transition from cabin to flight deck, currently pursuing her training at a Part 61 flight school. In addition to her training, she is an active member of Women in Aviation and the 99s. She also has dedicated time to organizations like Ronald McDonald House and Three Square Food Bank. Beyond her own career aspirations, she is a mentor to her nephew, who shares her dream of flying. The Elevate Award will help fund her Private Pilot License, allowing her to accelerate her training and focus on her ultimate goal of becoming a professional pilot for a major airline.
Laurel Winter
Minneapolis, MN
Awarded $3,500
With a background in English and Psychology from the University of Minnesota, Laurel Winter is a career-changer whose aviation journey is fueled by community building and a passion for giving back. As Board President of Stars of the North (MN WAI), she focused on developing organizational policies and collaborated with her team to award $20,000 in scholarships in 2025. Managing flight training while raising three children, Laurel has demonstrated creativity and resilience, often logging night flights after her children were asleep to meet her requirements. Her training has included obtaining her Private Pilot License, Instrument Rating, and Tailwheel endorsement, with her Commercial License near completion. The Elevate Award will fund the final phase of her checkride fees, so she can begin CFI training. Her ultimate goal is to launch a non-profit flight club to make flight training more financially accessible to her community.
Kimberly (Kim) Marcell
South Saint Paul, MN
Awarded $3,000
Kimberly Marcell’s journey into aviation is defined by resilience and a profound desire to serve. Formerly a high school educator for at-risk youth, Kim pivoted to the cockpit following the loss of her daughter, committing herself to living a life of purpose that honors her daughter’s memory. Now a CFI based in South Saint Paul, Kim is deeply embedded in the aviation community, holding leadership roles with the Minnesota Ninety-Nines and Stars of the North, Minneapolis’s chapter of Women in Aviation (WAI). She also draws on her personal experience to mentor others as a Peer Companion for the Star Legacy Group, serving as a guide and resource for newly bereaved parents. Her ultimate career aspiration is to become an aeromedical transport pilot, using her skills to deliver critical care to those in need. The Elevate Award will fund her Commercial Multiengine Rating and bring her closer to her goal.
Phireak (Pirak)
Ty
Mankato, MN
Awarded $3,000
Growing up in a small village in Cambodia, Pirak dreamed of becoming a pilot—a goal that felt unattainable due to a lack of resources. After moving to the United States in 2016 and navigating significant language barriers, he earned his Associate of Arts with high honors before transferring to Minnesota State University, Mankato. Driven by the memory of the barriers he faced as a young immigrant, Pirak is deeply committed to inclusivity in aviation, a dedication that earned him the 2023 Student Leadership Award for Asian American Affairs. Now a tutor at NorthStar Aviation, he recently organized airport tours for the Mankato Youth Place to inspire children to reach for the sky. The Elevate Award will support his flight instructor lab fees and training costs as he works toward his CFI, CFII, and MEI ratings, bringing him closer to the once seemingly impossible goal of becoming a professional pilot.
Audra Bixby
Saint Peter, MN
Awarded $1,500
Growing up in a family of aviators in Saint Peter, Minnesota, Audra Bixby’s passion for flight was ignited by memories of watching her father fly overhead in a C-130 and taking flights in a Piper Archer with her brother. While she initially held doubts about pursuing aviation professionally, her path was solidified after attending MN ACE Camp in 2022 and receiving mentorship from a female airline pilot. Now a junior at the University of North Dakota (UND), maintaining a 4.0 GPA, Audra is an active leader in Women in Aviation International and works as an Aircraft Dispatcher at UND Flight Operations. The Elevate Award will support her CFI training, a critical step toward her goal of becoming a captain for a major U.S. airline.
James Fenton
Minneapolis, MN
Awarded $1,500
A native of Minneapolis, Minnesota, James Fenton’s passion for aviation has been supported by his father and further solidified by his attendance at MN ACE Camp in 2022. Currently a full-time student at Bethel University pursuing a Mechanical Engineering degree, James has already earned his Commercial Pilot License. His commitment to service is evident through his six-year involvement with the Civil Air Patrol, where he has served as a Transport Mission Pilot, Cadet Commander, and Aerospace Education Officer. The Elevate Award will fund his CFI training, enabling him to mentor the next generation of aviators as he advances toward his career goal of becoming a commercial airline pilot.
In 2024, $25,000 was awarded to 8 applicants
Stephen Bethley
Elk River, MN
Awarded $5,500
Growing up in Inglewood, California, Stephen Bethley found peace watching planes from nearby LAX, sparking his dream of becoming a pilot. Now living in Elk River, Minnesota, he is working toward his goal of becoming a UPS 747 international captain while mentoring underrepresented youth to pursue aviation careers. A life-changing visit to the UPS Global Air Operations Facility introduced him to supportive mentors who fueled his passion for the field. He currently works as a UPS feeder driver, where he mentors others and advocates for safety and professionalism. The Elevate Award will fund his instrument rating, bringing him closer to achieving his career aspirations and empowering others to follow in his footsteps.
Sadie Blace
Grand Forks, ND
Awarded $4,000
Sadie Blace’s aviation journey began with a life-changing week at MN ACE Camp in 2019, where she discovered her love for flying and the expansive opportunities within the aviation industry. Hailing from Mankato, Minnesota, Sadie has since returned to ACE Camp as a counselor, inspiring young aviators just as she was once inspired. A dedicated student at the University of North Dakota, she balances double majors in Aviation Management and Commercial Aviation while actively serving as a Student Government Senator, treasurer of UND Italian Life, and a member of the campus book club. The Elevate Award will support her CFII training, bringing her closer to her goal of becoming a flight instructor and eventually a commercial pilot.
Abraham "AB" Akinbobola
Grand Forks, ND
Awarded $4,000
Growing up in a bustling household of eight in Nigeria, AB learned the values of responsibility, teamwork, and resilience, with each family member playing a role in ensuring their collective well-being. His dream of becoming a pilot was solidified during a discovery flight in 2020 and further inspired by attending MN ACE Days in 2021, where he gained clarity and guidance about pursuing aviation. Now a double major in Commercial Aviation and Aviation Management at the University of North Dakota, AB serves as President of the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals and an Airman in the United States Air National Guard. The Elevate Award will support his flight training, including earning his Private Pilot License and instrument rating, advancing him toward his goal of becoming a commercial airline pilot.
Rodin Lompart
Mankato, MN
Awarded $3,500
From his first solo glider flight, where a snapped tow rope tested his emergency training, Rodin has understood the importance of quick decision-making and preparation in aviation. A native of Northfield, Minnesota, he is now a sophomore at Minnesota State University, Mankato, working toward his Commercial Pilot License and CFI. In addition to his studies, Rodin volunteers as a tow pilot for the Minnesota Soaring Club and is actively involved in inspiring young aviators through the EAA Young Eagles. The Elevate Award will support the pursuit of his Commercial Pilot License, helping him take the next step toward his dream of flying professionally.
Joshua Irion
Fergus Falls, MN
Awarded $3,500
A passionate 17-year-old homeschool student from Fergus Falls, Minnesota, Joshua’s love for aviation began after attending the Fargo Airshow in 2011 and was fueled by his first flight through the Young Eagles program in 2021. Since then, he has earned his Private Pilot License and is now pursuing his Instrument Rating, with plans to obtain his Commercial License by 2026. Joshua is also working toward a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Minnesota State University, Moorhead which he plans to complete by the end of 2025. Influenced by those who mentored him along the way, Joshua is now giving back by volunteering with his local EAA chapter and organizing aviation workshops to inspire youth. The Elevate Award will support his flight training, helping him take the next step toward his goal of flying commercially.
Joshua Hosek
Eagan, MN
Awarded $1,500
Joshua Hosek’s aviation journey began with a spark of inspiration from his grandfather, a Korean War aircraft mechanic, and was strengthened by his experience at ACE Camp in 2011. Currently a Flight Data Communication Specialist with the FAA, Joshua has worked across multiple aviation roles, including TSA, drone photography, and as an aircraft dispatcher. Through Minnesota ACE Camp, he inspires future aviators by leading tours at the Minneapolis Air Route Traffic Control Center, sharing his expertise and aviation journey with students. Now focused on earning a Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management, he aspires to take on leadership roles within the FAA. The Elevate Award will support his educational goals, helping him gain the knowledge needed to make a meaningful impact on both the aviation industry and his community.
Sara K. Baker
Portland, OR
Awarded $1,500
Inspired by her Navy fighter pilot uncle, Sara built a strong foundation in aviation and STEM that continues to shape her journey. After a successful career at American Airlines, where as a sales analyst, she helped establish key flight routes between novel city pairings, Sara shifted gears and chose to pursue her Private Pilot License. Now working at ForeFlight, she works in data analytics while also pursuing her Commercial License, with plans to obtain her CFI afterward. Sara’s goals include becoming a backcountry seaplane pilot and continuing to mentor individuals through organizations like the 99s, the Washington Pilot’s Association, and Women in Aviation. The Elevate Award will support her long cross-country requirements for her Commercial Pilot License, helping her take the next step in her aviation journey.
Adam Chunn
Nevis, MN
Awarded $1,500
With a decade of experience in aviation, Adam Chunn has built a strong foundation as a helicopter pilot and is now transitioning to the airplane side of the industry. He is a passionate educator, teaching aviation courses at Lake Superior College, mentoring young flight instructors, and serving as a helicopter Designated Pilot Examiner. Adam aims to complete his Airline Transport Pilot License, Airplane MEL/SEL conversion, which he hopes will enable him to give airplane check rides, addressing the shortage of examiners in his area. With the Elevate Award supporting his growth as both an instructor and examiner, Adam is on track to achieve his ultimate goal of becoming an airplane DPE, where he can continue mentoring and filling critical gaps in the aviation training community.
In 2023, $20,000 was awarded to 8 applicants
Hannah Shickles
Dubuque, WI
Awarded $3,000
Hannah's journey into aviation began unexpectedly when she volunteered at the Kelch Aviation Museum for her high school senior project. Initially unfamiliar with aviation, a chance offer to fly in a vintage biplane changed her perspective. This transformative experience sparked her passion for aviation, leading her to work at the museum for three years in various roles, from Archivist to Museum Curator. Hannah's dedication and diverse responsibilities ranged from designing museum layouts to coordinating events and flying museum aircraft. Her aviation journey continued as she pursued flight training, earning her private pilot certificate by trading her unique skill of reskinning antique airplane wings for flight hours. The Elevate Award will fund Hannah's Instrument Rating contributing to her path of success in the aviation industry.
Thomas Botkin
Corcoran, MN
Awarded $3,000
Striving to become a military officer and pilot, Thomas is eager to use his Elevate Award to secure his instrument rating and refine his aviation skills. This pursuit increases his prospects for admission to the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) and prepares him for the challenges of military aviation. Thomas is no stranger to overcoming difficulties. At 14, he navigated the complexities of training during the COVID-19 pandemic, successfully earning his PPL. His dedication to service and academic excellence is evident through his leadership role in the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) and his enrollment in nine advanced placement courses. Thomas views The Elevate Award as a strategic commitment to his future, aiding him in achieving his goals.
Laura Schevenius
Lakeville, Minnesota
Awarded $3,000
Laura, inspired by a family legacy of Army helicopter pilots, earned her private pilot's license at the University of North Dakota. Commissioned into the Minnesota Army National Guard, she excelled in Army flight school, becoming proficient in UH-60 A/L and Blackhawk helicopters. Laura's versatile career encompasses service as a National Guardsman, an Air Traffic Controller, and a deployment to South Texas, earning her the Army Commendation Medal. Beyond her military service, Laura has dedicated four years to MN ACE Camp as a camp counselor and military sponsor. Transitioning back into civilian life with the support of her husband, Eric, Laura aims to pursue a commercial aviation career. Her Elevate Award will help offset some of the cost of her Multi-Engine rating and Restricted ATP.
Tyler Hudson
North Mankato, Minnesota
Awarded $3,000
Tyler, a dedicated Cadet Airman in the Civil Air Patrol's Mankato, Minnesota Squadron, is on a mission to achieve his aviation dreams. Utilizing the Elevate Award, he plans to complete the final 10 hours of his Private Pilot License (PPL) and initiate training for his Instrument Rating. Guided by his instructor, Chris Soderman, Tyler is recognized for consistently meeting and exceeding standards. Tyler attended MN ACE Camp in 2023. This experience provided Tyler with valuable insights into airport operations and mentorship from experienced airline pilots, solidifying his aspirations of becoming a commercial pilot with Delta Airlines.
Nicholas Ward
Shelbyville, KY
Awarded $3,000
Nicholas, a senior at Eastern Kentucky University, has harbored a profound love for aviation since childhood, marked by early memories of taking flights and exploring classic aircraft alongside his uncle. As an adult, his academic achievements in airline management, airport operations, and meteorology highlight his commitment to becoming a well-rounded aviation professional. As he nears graduation, Nick has actively engaged in career-building activities, from airside tours at MSP and SDF to behind-the-scenes experiences at Endeavor Airlines, showcasing his commitment to learning and networking. Nick plans to attend North American Flight Control for his dispatch license next year. The Elevate Award will help pave the way for him to begin a career as an airline dispatcher.
Hannah Henderson
Tonto Basin, AZ
Awarded $2,000
From flight attendant to pilot, Hannah's narrative embodies the unyielding force of determination and perseverance in the pursuit of dreams. Since 2010, she has navigated financial challenges and the delicate balance of motherhood amidst demanding flight training. Despite these hurdles, Hannah achieved significant milestones, obtaining her private pilot's license and instrument rating. Now, with the Elevate Award, she is poised to complete her CFI. Actively engaged in aviation organizations like WAI and Civil Air Patrol, Hannah, supported by her husband Justin, daughter Hazel, and instructors Steve and Becky Vaught, aspires to become a commercial pilot. Her story is an inspiration, echoing from the aisles to the cockpit, inspiring girls worldwide.
Meridath Jackson
Grand Forks, ND
Awarded $1,500
During her time at UND, Meridath excelled academically and took on key leadership roles in various aviation-related initiatives. She served as president of the University of North Dakota Women in Aviation Chapter, mentored students in the Student Aviation Advisory Council, acted as the committee chair for Students Educating Students to Go Higher (an aviation nonprofit organization), and worked as a mental health advocate in the UpLift program within the Aerospace College. Meridath's dedication to inspiring the next generation of aviators led to her involvement as a committee member for MN ACE Camp. The Elevate Award will help support her completion of MEI training, bringing her one step closer to achieving her goal of becoming a first officer at Endeavor Air.
Jonah Olson
Little Falls, MN
Awarded $1,500
Jonah's interest in aviation was cultivated through family outings to air shows and explorations of vintage aircraft from WWII and the Vietnam era. Jonah's talents extend beyond aviation, encompassing achievements in music and sports. After graduating high school in 2023, Jonah attended MN ACE Camp, a transformative experience that redirected his focus from multiple 4-year music school scholarships to a career in aviation. Currently pursuing a dual major in Robotics and Music at a local college, Jonah takes PPL lessons at Lakes Area Aviation. Jonah's resilience, strong family support, and mentorship from Carl Rydeen, retired ATC, position him as a deserving recipient of the Elevate Award.
In 2022, $15,000 was awarded to 6 applicants
Jerry Brooks
Fairmont, Minnesota
Awarded $5,000
Jerry is a Math Teacher working at Fairmont High School, where he was awarded Teacher of the Year in 2019. Nine years ago, Jerry completed ground school training from a former student; he earned his Private Pilot Certificate and continues to log hours of flight time with family, friends, and students all over the Midwest. Jerry teaches a Principle of Flight course and will use his Elevate Award to pursue advanced ratings, with the ultimate goal of becoming a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI). This certification will allow him to offer course credit and flight hours to his students, many of whom, after taking his course, have gone on to aviation colleges and pursued careers in aviation.
Dylan Hemstock
Spring Park, Minnesota
Awarded $2,750
Inspired by his Grandfather, Dylan has worked in the aviation industry for much of his adult life. He has held positions such as an Aircraft Refueler, Ramp Supervisor, and most recently with Delta Air Lines as an Aircraft Support Mechanic. Every transition he has made has given him a broader level of experience and solidified his dream of becoming an airline pilot. Dylan has been an incredible Delta Air Lines Ambassador dedicating his time and resources to educating students at events like MN ACE Days and Girls in Aviation Day. Dylan will use his Elevate Award to continue his flight training. He starts ATP Accelerated Training on Jan 16th, 2023!
Abigail Flom
Honolulu, Hawaii
Awarded $2,750
Abigail is a 2012 MN ACE Camp Alumni conducting scientific research and pursuing her doctoral degree in Earth and Planetary Sciences at the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa. Her research involves experimental remote sensing instruments often tested in the air utilizing small aircraft. Opportunities are lost when pilots and scientists don't speak the same language. Abigail seeks to bridge the communication barrier in her lab by obtaining her Private Pilot Certificate, which will help better facilitate her research and ultimately build the foundation for becoming an Astronaut one day.
Devin Durant
Phoenix, AZ
Awarded $1,500
Diversity and inclusion were not prevalent on campus during Devin's first year at the University of North Dakota (UND). Looking to change this for future students of color, he helped found the UND collegiate chapters of Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP) and Professional Asian Pilots Association (PAPA). Devin has shown a willingness to help industry organizations find success, including MN ACE Camp. Devin is currently a Certified Flight Instructor at United's Aviate Academy. He will use his Elevate Award to attend industry events held by OBAP, PAPA, and EAA AirVenture to help further his professional development.
Anna Heath
Moorhead, Minnesota
Awarded $1,500
Anna is a 2022 MN ACE Camp Alumni success story. Before attending camp, Anna had never considered a career in aviation. As a senior in high school, she wanted to pursue a career that helped others. She planned to attend Minnesota State University Moorhead and major in Criminal Justice. Camp showed her how vast the world of aviation careers could be, from Military Pilots to Aerial Firefighters to Medivac Pilots. Inspired by mentors, Anna is heading to the University of North Dakota this spring. She is currently pursuing her Private Pilot Certificate at Fargo Jet Center. She will use her Elevate Award to complete her rating.
Ella Jones
Mankato, Minnesota
Awarded $1,500
Ella can't say she grew up with the childhood dream of wanting to fly. While she had strong role models like her dad, who worked in the aviation industry, her passion for flying came in the summer of 2019. After attending MN ACE Camp, Ella decided aviation must be in her blood. At 19 years old, Ella will finish her final semester at Minnesota State University, Mankato, majoring in Professional Flight. She plans to graduate this summer and use her Elevate Award to complete her capstone class, Canadair Regional Jet (CRJ) Airline Transition Course, which gives insight and training into what is expected at an airline.