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Since her freshman year at Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University, Megan Yaa Amoako (’24) has been a member of the Prescott Campus chapter of (WAI), in addition to currently serving as a public relations representative for the .

“These associations have opened doors for me,” said Amoako, citing networking and skill-building opportunities. Most recently, however, the Aeronautical Science senior was awarded a $20,000 scholarship from , thanks to her participation in WAI.

“I was surprised and excited,” Amoako said. “It was such an amazing feeling.”

Awarded as part of a Boeing initiative to diversify the talent pipeline for those pursuing careers in commercial aviation, the scholarship was awarded based on Amoako’s academic accomplishments, as well as her work as vice president for WAI.

“These organizations have helped me connect with other women on campus as well as build my communication and organization skills,” said Amoako. “I am just grateful to be a part of them.”

Fulfilling the Need for Pilots

According to Boeing’s , 649,000 new commercial airline pilots are needed to maintain the global commercial fleet over the next 20 years.

“I knew I wanted to become a pilot when I was 11 after being in a full-motion simulator,” Amoako said. “I am currently working on my commercial license. My plans for the rest of my time at Embry‑Riddle are to finish my commercial and multi-engine flight training.”

Amoako is also pursuing minor courses of study in Aviation Business Administration and . She is on a path to graduate this fall.

“One of my mentors from told me, ‘Failure is only failure if you don’t learn something from it,’” Amoako said. “It’s easy to be critical of yourself. Just keep trying. Praise yourself for your progress and achievements, no matter how miniscule they may seem.”