Epic Announces 5th Annual Scholarship Winners

Oct. 21, 2020

Epic Flight Academy announces the recipients of its 5th Annual Aviation Scholarship Awards. Congratulations to the following students:

  • Michael Leonardi, Port Orange, FL – $20,000 in flight training
  • Sadie Gerstle, Port Orange, FL – $5,000 in flight training
  • Edson Delgado, Phoenix, AZ – $19,500 in aircraft mechanic training

“Every year we see more and more talented students applying for these scholarships from around the country. I know it’s a challenge for the judges,” said Danny Perna, CEO. “This year we received more than 40 applications. We’re glad to see so many young people are interested in aviation training.”

The scholarships are open to high school juniors and seniors in the United States.

Meet the Scholarship Recipients

Michael Leonardi is a junior at Atlantic High School and taking the Private Pilot Operations course at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He is a member of AFJROTC and a member of their Flight Sim Team and PT Team. He is also a member of the Embry-Riddle Frankendrone Team. Michael’s flight training at Epic will help him achieve his goal of becoming a commercial pilot and flying for American Airlines.

Sadie Gerstle attends the Aerospace Academy at Atlantic H.S. and has participated in numerous aviation activities, including the Women in Aviation Conference. She is dual-enrolled at Atlantic and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University where she has achieved Honor Roll status. Sadie has a passion for flying, and we are eager to welcome her to campus to continue her path to becoming a pilot.

Edson Delgado has been attending aircraft maintenance classes while attending the Academies at South Mountain High School where his instructors praised his ability in avionics and electronics. He has participated in projects such as Advanced Safety Wiring, Wheel and Tire Disassembly/Assembly, and Aircraft Structures. We look forward to welcoming him to Epic when he graduates high school.