Cathy Press (L), Rosanne Casimir, and Jim Moroz (R) announcing the Kúkpi7 Rosanne Casimir Aviation and Aerospace Scholarship. (Image Credit: Kamloops Airport)

By Victor Kaisar

New Scholarship

Applications open for inaugural Kúkwpi7 Rosanne Casimir Aviation and Aerospace Scholarship

Mar 1, 2026 | 3:00 PM

KAMLOOPS — Applications are now being accepted for the inaugural Kúkwpi7 Rosanne Casimir Aviation and Aerospace Scholarship, which aims to support Indigenous students in B.C. or the Yukon who want to pursue an education that leads to a career in aviation or aerospace.

Valued at $3,500, the scholarship is a partnership between Kamloops Airport and the BC Aviation Council. It was unveiled during the B.C. Aviation Council’s annual conference in June last year.

“We hope to empower local students to see themselves in the aviation industry, possibly even here at Kamloops Airport one day,” said Jim Moroz, the Managing Director at Kamloops Airport said. “Aviation and aerospace offer meaningful, long-term career opportunities, and this scholarship is one way we can support the next generation of Indigenous professionals as they begin that journey.”

Eligible fields of study include but are not limited to pilot training, aircraft maintenance engineering, air traffic control, airport operations and analysts within the aviation industry.

“To address these workforce challenges, we must broaden the talent pool and support underrepresented groups, especially Indigenous youth, women and students from smaller communities,” Cathy Press, the BC Aviation Council Chair, said in June, noting the sector is facing an acute labour shortage.

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“This new scholarship is a key part of this effort.”

YKA officials say the scholarship is named after Casimir because of “her leadership and advocacy for inclusive, sustainable economic growth.” In a statement, Casimir said it is “uplifting” to see the scholarship continue to grow in purpose and impact.

“Each year, more Indigenous students are stepping forward with determination and vision, ready to take their place in the aviation and aerospace sector,” Casimir said. “Supporting their educational journeys reflects our shared commitment to meaningful reconciliation, one grounded in opportunity, inclusion, and long-term success.”

“I am honoured to stand alongside Kamloops Airport and the BC Aviation Council as we continue empowering the next generation of Secwépemc and Indigenous leaders to soar with confidence.”

Applications will be accepted through the BC Aviation Council website until April 30.