United States, 17 December, 2025:
The International Aerospace Womens Association (IAWA) has announced the recipients of its 2025 scholarships, awarded to women studying aviation and aerospace at universities around the world. Since launching the program in 2004, IAWA has awarded 131 scholarships to women attending 11 universities totaling $555,000, marking a significant milestone in its long-standing effort to expand opportunities to women across the industry.
Since the inception of its Scholarship Program 21 years ago, IAWA has developed valuable relationships with many universities throughout the world to offer scholarships that support the academic and professional development of women pursuing careers in aviation and aerospace. These institutions distinguish their programs by prioritizing academic excellence and advancing gender diversity in the recruitment and retention of both students and faculty.
“IAWA’s Scholarship Program goes beyond financial assistance—it’s a catalyst for empowering the next generation of leaders in aviation and aerospace,” says Christine De Gagne, Chair of the IAWA Scholarship Committee and Senior Sales Director at GE Aerospace. “By facilitating meaningful connections, opening doors to opportunities, and fostering personal growth through mentorship, we are building a global network where women excel, lead, and drive innovation. Together, we are shaping a future where women thrive and redefine the boundaries of possibility in aerospace.”
2025 Scholarship Recipients:
• Cranfield University, United Kingdom – Purevsuren (Puujee) Sukhbaatar
• École Nationale de l’Aviation Civile, France – Kobina Kouakou
• Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, United States – Amanda Hoyt
• McGill University, Canada – Victoria Geraldine Alcaraz
• Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law, United States – Grace Nobles
• Swinburne University of Technology, Australia – Lakshmi Vadlamoodi
• TU Delft, Netherlands – Anna Moscati
• Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology, United States – Osmary Vega
These recipients represent the next generation of leaders poised to make a lasting impact on the industry. They share a passion for aviation and aerospace, have demonstrated resilience in overcoming challenges in their academic and personal lives, and exhibit a strong desire to connect, inspire, and lead.
“Receiving the IAWA scholarship is a tremendous honor and has been a meaningful source of encouragement as I take the next steps in my aviation career,” says Sukhbaatar, who recently earned her Master of Science in Air Transport Management from Cranfield University. “It has strengthened my commitment to contributing to the industry and to supporting the next generation of women in aviation and aerospace. I am grateful to be part of such an inspiring global community.”
Beyond financial support, the IAWA Scholarship Program is structured to accelerate each recipient’s professional growth. Scholars are invited to attend the IAWA Annual Conference, where they are paired with a board or advisory board member for mentorship and industry exposure. Many continue to engage with IAWA well beyond their award year, speaking at conferences and forums, contributing as subject matter experts, and remaining active members of the organization. This ongoing connection is a hallmark of the program and is part of what makes the IAWA Scholarship a prestigious career-building opportunity rather than a one-time award.
“This opportunity is a gateway to mentorship, inspiration, and connection with leaders who are shaping the industry,” says Hoyt, who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Aeronautics at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. “As I chart my own path toward a fulfilling career in aviation, I am equally committed to lifting others along the way. I hope to grow into a mentor who supports and empowers the next generation of women entering this exciting and rewarding field.”
