20th Aviation Education & Career Expo to Offer More Than $180,000 in Scholarships

More than $180,000 in scholarships will be available through the 20th Aviation Education & Career Expo, “Dreams with Wings,” taking place November 6 at Rider Jet Center in Hagerstown, Maryland. Presented by Paragon Aviation Group, the event is expected to bring together more than 1,300 high school and college students ages 16–22 and more than 65 participating organizations. 

Scholarship applications close October 9, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EDT.

Students can find application information and event registration details at paragonaviationgroup.com/aviation-education-career-expo. 

The Expo connects students directly with professionals from universities, airlines, business aviation companies, and medical, military, and law enforcement organizations. Attendees can explore career paths, discuss internship opportunities with participating exhibitors, experience flight simulators, view aircraft displays, and attend live demonstrations. 

“Aviation’s future depends on the opportunities we create for young people today,” said Crystal Kubeczka, President & CEO of Paragon Aviation Group. “As industry leaders, we have a responsibility to open doors, connect students with mentors, and help make education and training more accessible. This Expo brings employers, educators, and aviation professionals together to turn interest into a path forward. That is why Paragon invests in this event: to help students take their first step and strengthen the aviation community they will one day lead.” 

Founded by aviation professionals Julie O’Brien and Sarah Thompson, the Expo has awarded more than $2 million in scholarships since its inception, helping students pursue aviation education and training. 

“The Expo has been my ongoing labor of love, for an industry that has given so much to me,” said Julie O’Brien, Expo Co-Founder and Director of Business Development for Chantilly Air. “This one-day experience inspires the next generation with opportunities that last a lifetime. We have taken this event to new heights through our amazing partners at Rider Jet Center, Paragon Aviation Group, and Chantilly Air.” 

Featured speakers include Rider Jet Center owner Ben Rider; former scholarship recipient Brinnay Nickola; Samantha Mitchell of Black Women in Aviation; Maryland State Police pilot Kristine Yaroschuk; and aviation entrepreneur and motivational speaker Jamail Larkins. 

Scheduled demonstrations include the U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Demonstration Team and the Washington County Sheriff’s K-9 Unit. 

The Expo is made possible through corporate and community supporters who contribute scholarships, expertise, equipment, and volunteer time. Their participation brings the aviation community together to help students discover opportunities and build relationships with future mentors and employers. 

For registration, scholarship applications, and additional event information, visit paragonaviationgroup.com/aviation-education-career-expo.