Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings Inc., a leading global provider of outsourced aviation logistics, announced today that it will award $50,000 in scholarships to the University of Alaska Anchorage. The needs-based scholarships will help offset education costs for students pursuing careers in the aviation industry. The award will include four $5,000 scholarships for students pursuing careers as aviation maintenance technicians and three $10,000 scholarships for those aspiring to become pilots.

UAA plays a crucial role in meeting the growing needs of the industry by offering a top-tier aviation program with four specialized tracks — air traffic control, aviation management, aviation maintenance and professional piloting — making it an ideal location for workforce development.

"This scholarship is going to have a profound impact on our program, improving our students' ability to get through the program on time," said Ray Weber, dean of UAA Community and Technical College. "So many of our students work full-time jobs trying to make ends meet and pay tuition. With support from Atlas Air, our students will get through the program quickly with a high level of skill, knowledge and preparation to work in Alaska."

Atlas’ donation to UAA underscores the company’s support for aviation in Alaska. Anchorage’s proximity, within 9.5 hours by plane of 90% of the industrial world, positions it as a vital hub for global commerce, training and talent development, and it plays a key role in Atlas’ operations. Annual Atlas departures at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) have grown to more than 7,000 in 2023, supported by over 600 Alaska-based employees who live and work in Anchorage and the surrounding communities.

"We are incredibly grateful to Atlas Air for investing in UAA students and our communities," said UAA Chancellor Sean Parnell. "UAA educates and trains students to fill critical workforce shortages in industries vital to our state's economy. Thanks to the support of Atlas Air, we can expand aviation opportunities for students so they can positively impact our state."