Press Release

Issued by National Business Aviation Association.

October 11, 2017

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) today announced at its Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) that a record nine scholarships have been awarded to current and aspiring Certified Aviation Managers (CAMs). These scholarships, which are given annually, promote professional development in business aviation by providing financial support for qualified CAM exam candidates.

Jake Cartwright Leadership Scholarship

The Jake Cartwright Scholarship, which is underwritten by Solairus Aviation, funds the CAM certification costs for candidates who demonstrate exceptional leadership qualities. The scholarship is named in honor of Solairus vice chairman Jake Cartwright, a highly respected business aviation leader and U.S. Marine Corps veteran who has championed the industry for decades. This year's recipients are:

- Josh Manley, a private aircraft captain who has earned Falcon 7X, Falcon 2000EX/LX EASy/ I/II and Learjet type ratings.

- Steven Nesbitt, captain for Satcom Direct, leads safety oversight to ensure the department meets IS-BAO standards.

- Kyle Nestor, captain for Harley-Davidson Motor Company, has taken on a leadership role in the flight department by writing security training programs and spearheading integration of a new scheduling system.

- Dave Noall, chief pilot and director of operations for Presrite Corporation/Rite Flite Aviation, LTD., oversees all flight department activities for both Part 91 and Part 135 operations. 

- Jesse Simpson a chief pilot for Tysons Food Inc., began his career with Tysons as a first officer in 2002 and has since earned six promotions for exemplary performance and strong leadership.

Certified Aviation Manager Scholarship

The Certified Aviation Manager Scholarship was established in 2014 to benefit individuals seeking to become CAMs, as well as current CAMs in the process of renewing their certification. The scholarship promotes professional development in business aviation by providing financial support for qualified CAM exam candidates and current CAMs. This year’s recipients are:

- Jefferson Whitehead, captain for Stephens Investment Holdings Inc., was named employee of the year in 2017 for developing internal standard operating procedures compliant with the industry’s highest standards.

- Brendan Finnegan, senior international flight operations coordinator for Rockwell Collins ARINC, earned his master’s degree in executive global leadership in 2016 while providing worldwide support for more than 180 general aviation clients.

- Morgan Garlinge, aircraft dispatcher/scheduler for Chevron, has performed international flight planning for multiple Fortune 500 companies during a 20-plus year aviation career.

C&W Family Scholarship

NBAA Charities and the C&W Family annually awards up to $2,500 to one business aviation professional seeking continued professional development opportunities to advance their existing careers. The scholarship selection committee will focus on applicants that are able to express their dedication to furthering the business aviation industry. This year’s recipient is:

- Nate Booth, CAM, a Part 91 pilot for Kum & Go, LC, who has accumulated more than 6,200 total fixed-wing flight hours in a 14-year international career that has seen him fly both Part 91 and Part 135 operations.

The CAM credential provides a clear industry standard for preparation and achievement in aviation management. The CAM program is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, and is the first program in the aviation industry to receive this recognition. The CAM exam is available throughout the year in a computer-based testing format. To be eligible for the exam, participants must be pre-qualified and approved through a formal application process. Learn more about the CAM Program.

NBAA Charities offers monetary and training scholarships for both students and aviation professionals, such as flight department managers, pilots, maintenance technicians, schedulers, dispatchers, flight attendants and flight technicians. These scholarships, which total nearly $100,000 annually, are administered by NBAA standing committees and would not be possible without the generous financial support of NBAA member donors. Learn more about scholarships offered by NBAA Charities.