Clone of AAI Flight and Maintenance Training Application

Welcome to the AAI Aviation Pipeline Program Application!

Thank you for your interest in the AAI Aviation Pipeline Program! This program is designed to introduce and prepare young individuals for a successful aviation career. Through hands-on flight training, mentorship, and professional development, we aim to empower the next generation of aviation professionals.

Applications Due May 25th, 2026

Program Dates: June 8th, 2026 – August 14, 2026
The program will provide students with a structured aviation training experience that includes:

Classes will be based at Maywood, IL, and Aurora Municipal Airport (Transportation is provided)

Flight Training Student Costs
$100 enrollment fee. Village of Maywood residents are exempt from this fee.

Approximately $350 in out-of-pocket costs for Training materials and FAA medical certificate

Drone Program Student Costs
$100 enrollment fee only

Application Requirements
To complete your application, please ensure you have the following:

1. Personal & Academic Information
✅ Personal and Parent/Guardian Information
✅ High School Transcripts & School Information
✅ Photo ID or Student ID and Passport or Birth certificate (Required for verification)

2. Experience & Background
✅ Any Extracurricular Activities, Work Experience, Special Recognition, or Awards
✅ How You Heard About This Program
✅ Any Previous Aviation Experience (if applicable)

3. Additional Requirements
✅ Code of Conduct & Anti-Bullying Policy Acknowledgment
✅ Image Release Form
✅ Agreement to Selective Enrollment Sign-Up (Required to participate in the program)

4. Essay Requirement
Write a personal statement about your interest in aviation maintenance or flight, your long-term and short-term goals, and how it honors the AeroStar vision.

5. Supporting Documents
✅ Letters of Recommendation (Note: Parents and relatives cannot submit letters of recommendation)
✅ Parent/Guardian Signature & Applicant Signature

6. Interview Scheduling
Once your application is submitted and reviewed, we will contact you to schedule an interview.

Write a personal statement about your interest in aviation maintenance, drone or flight, your long-term and short-term goals, and how it honors the AeroStar founder Vision.
Write a personal statement about your interest in aviation maintenance or flight, your long-term and short-term goals, and how it honors the AeroStar founder Dr. Tammera L. Holmes' Vision. (500 words)

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Letter of Recommendation (Note - parents and relatives can not write letters of recommendation)

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AeroStar Avion Institute: Participant Rights and Responsibilities
- Participant Rights:
  - To receive a high‐quality aviation education.
  - To be treated fairly, courteously, and respectfully.
  - To bring complaints or concerns to AeroStar Avion Institute staff for resolution.
  - To share their perspective before receiving any consequences.
  - To be informed of the reasons for any disciplinary action verbally and/or in writing.
  - To be respectful and courteous to staff, parents, guardians, and fellow participants.
  - To respect the privacy rights of other participants.
  
  Prohibited Behavior:
  
  The following behaviors are strictly prohibited, including but not limited to:
  - Use of profanity.
  - Threats of violence or bullying.
  - Physical aggression such as hitting, shoving, or pushing.
  - Dangerous or rough play.
  - Disrespect toward any person or property associated with AeroStar Avion Institute.
  - Bullying, taunting, or ridiculing a fellow participant.
  - Behavior that makes others feel unwelcome, singled out, or uncomfortable.
  - Failure to follow staff instructions that support the mission of AeroStar Avion Institute.
  - Use or possession of alcohol, tobacco products, or illegal drugs.
  
  Punctuality:
  - All participants must arrive at scheduled AeroStar Avion Institute activities 10 minutes prior to each event.
  - Tardiness is strictly prohibited and may result in exclusion from activities.
  
  Security Policy:
  - Participant safety is the highest priority at AeroStar Avion Institute, and everyone must contribute to maintaining a secure environment.
  - Participants should report any safety concerns immediately to staff.
  - Participants are prohibited from driving vehicles on campus during the program.
  - Participants are not allowed to leave campus without prior written consent from the Executive Director.
  - Requests for leaving campus must be formally submitted and accompanied by a signed Sign In/Sign Out Waiver.
  - Participants will reside in designated housing during the program.
  
  Bullying Policy:
  Bullying is defined as repeated behavior intended to intimidate, harm, or control another person, either in person or online. Examples include teasing, extortion, or physical assault. All forms of bullying are strictly prohibited.
  
  Participants who engage in bullying may face disciplinary action, including removal from the program. Characteristics of bullying behavior often include:
  - A desire for power over others.
  - Lack of empathy for others.
  - Use of intimidation or manipulation to achieve goals.
  - Internal emotional struggles or insecurities.
  
  Disciplinary Action and Removal:
  Any participant who violates AeroStar Avion Institute policies is subject to disciplinary action, up to and including removal from the program. AeroStar Avion Institute staff reserves the right to dismiss any participant at any time, for any reason, to ensure a safe and respectful learning environment.
- My Signature acknowledge the content below

Mandatory Legal Sign-Offs
- I hereby voluntarily consent to the disclosure of education records in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), 20 U.S.C. §1232g, and applicable regulations.
  
  Information That May Be Shared
  Academic and program records, including identifying information, enrollment, attendance, participation, training outcomes, credentialing, demographic data, employment outcomes, surveys, case management, and evaluations necessary for grant administration, reporting, audits, and program improvement.
  
  This consent also includes authorization for AeroStar Avion Institute NFP (AAI) to obtain, use, and release employment and wage records through the State Wage Interchange System (SWIS) and other state and federal employment verification systems for performance tracking, grant reporting, compliance monitoring, and program evaluation.
  
  Purpose of Disclosure
  Grant eligibility verification, compliance, reporting, audits, evaluation, and program operations as required by AeroStar Avion Institute NFP and any current or future public or private grantors, funding agencies, partners, or regulatory authorities.
  
  Authorized Recipients
  - U.S. Department of Labor
  - Current and future public or private funders
  - Affiliate partners supporting grant-funded activities
  - Authorized evaluators or administrators acting on behalf of the grant
  - AeroStar Avion Institute NFP
  - Federal, state, or local government agencies
  - Corporate, foundation, and philanthropic partners
  - Educational and training partners
  - Authorized third-party evaluators, auditors, and administrators acting on behalf of AeroStar or its funding partners
  Duration of Consent
  
  This consent applies to all AeroStar programs the student participates in unless otherwise revoked in writing.
  
  Students Turning 18
  If the student turns 18 during participation, this consent remains valid unless revoked by the student in writing.
- I acknowledge and agree to the terms above (Applicant or Parent/Guardian)
- I, the undersigned Participant, or the parent/legal guardian of the applicant, hereby release the Aerostar Avion Institute, its Board of Directors, officers, chaperones, designees, agents, assigns, affiliates, employees, volunteers, and any individuals associated with the program, individually and respectively, from any and all claims and liabilities that may result from personal injury or any cause of action that may arise directly or indirectly from the Participant’s involvement in any activity or trip conducted under the supervision or direction of the Aerostar Avion Institute.
  
  If the Participant is a minor, I grant permission for them to participate in the various activities related to the Aerostar Avion Institute’s program. I understand that, while the Participant will be under the supervision of the Institute’s volunteers and adult participants, they will be expected to follow all required safety regulations. The Participant, parent, and legal guardian hereby defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the Aerostar Avion Institute from any claims, liabilities, losses, damages, suits, costs, and expenses of any kind, including reasonable attorney's fees ("Claims"), arising from or related to the Participant’s involvement in the Aerostar Avion Institute’s program.
  
  The Participant, parent, and legal guardian understand that by participating in the program, the Participant will forever forgo the right to sue or claim against the Aerostar Avion Institute for any loss or damage, including property loss or personal injury sustained during or in preparation for participation. The Participant, parent, and legal guardian agree that these terms are binding on the Participant and their parent/legal guardian, as well as the Participant’s heirs, legal representatives, affiliates, agents, personal representatives, trustees, successors, and assigns, and the parent/legal guardian’s heirs, legal representatives, affiliates, agents, personal representatives, trustees, successors, and assigns.
  
  AeroStar Avion Institute, NFP does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, or age in admission, treatment, or participation in its programs, services, and activities.
- I acknowledge and agree to the terms above (Applicant or Parent/Guardian)
- Participant Image, Photography, and Video Release
  
  By signing this release, I hereby authorize the AeroStar Avion Institute to use the following personal information:
  
  1. My image – including photographic, motion picture, and electronic (video) images.
  2. My voice – including sound and video recordings.
  
  I grant the AeroStar Avion Institute, its representatives, agents, assigns, affiliates, contractors, and employees the right to take photographs and record videos of me in connection with the Institute’s programs and activities.
  
  I authorize the AeroStar Avion Institute, its assigns, and transferees to copyright, use, and publish these images and recordings in print and/or electronically. I agree that the AeroStar Avion Institute may use such photographs and recordings with or without my name for any lawful purpose, including promotional and marketing materials.
  
  Disclaimer
  The AeroStar Avion Institute hereby disclaims any and all representations, warranties, and guarantees regarding the program. There are no guarantees concerning the level of success each Participant may experience throughout the program. All testimonials and examples provided in promotional materials are exceptional results, which do not apply to every Participant. Each Participant’s success is entirely dependent on the individual, including the time dedicated to the program, ideas and techniques applied, financial resources, knowledge, and skills. Since these factors vary by individual, the AeroStar Avion Institute cannot guarantee success for every Participant, nor is it responsible for any Participant’s dissatisfaction.
- I acknowledge and agree to the terms above (Applicant or Parent/Guardian)
- Equal Opportunity (EO) Notice
  
  I acknowledge that I have received and reviewed the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Non-Discrimination Statement for the AeroStar Avion Institute, NFP Aviation Pipeline Training Project, a program funded in whole or in part by the U.S. Department of Labor – Employment and Training Administration (ETA). I understand that AeroStar Avion Institute, NFP is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Program and that discrimination is prohibited under applicable federal, state, and local laws.
  
  I further understand that I have the right to file a discrimination complaint and to participate in this program free from retaliation.
  
  *Funding Disclosure:
  “This workforce development program is funded in whole or in part by the U.S. Department of Labor – Employment and Training Administration (ETA). The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Labor, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.”
- I acknowledge and agree to the terms above (Applicant or Parent/Guardian)
- AeroStar Avion Institute, NFP Aviation Pipeline Training Project - Grievance Policy and Procedure (Effective April 19, 2025)
  
  1. Purpose
  
  The AeroStar Avion Institute is committed to fostering a safe, supportive, and respectful educational environment for all participants and staff. This policy establishes a clear and equitable process for addressing and resolving grievances—including but not limited to concerns related to inappropriate conduct, discrimination, harassment, fraud, abuse, or perceived unfair treatment—within the Department of Labor-funded Aviation Pipeline Training Project.
  
  2. Scope
  
  This policy applies to all program participants (ages 16–19) and staff engaged in the AeroStar Avion Institute Aviation Pipeline Training Project. It includes grievances that arise in relation to classroom instruction, flight or maintenance training, mentorship, events, or related program activities.
  
  3. Guiding Principles
  
  This grievance process is designed to be:
  - Legitimate: A credible process overseen by impartial and trained personnel.
  - Accessible: Clear and easy to use, with assistance available for youth needing support.
  - Predictable: Includes well-defined steps, timeframes, and points of contact.
  - Equitable: Fair treatment for all parties regardless of background or status.
  - Transparent: Communicated clearly to all participants and documented throughout.
  - Rights-Compatible: Compliant with local, state, and federal laws, including Title IX and labor laws.
  - A Source of Learning: Used to inform continuous program improvement.
  - Engagement-Based: Built on respectful dialogue and participant voice.
  
  4. Reporting a Grievance
  
  Participants are encouraged to report grievances promptly. Grievances may relate to:
  - Discrimination or bias
  - Harassment (sexual, verbal, or physical)
  - Bullying or intimidation
  - Unsafe or unethical conduct
  - Fraud or misuse of program funds
  - Unfair evaluation or program dismissal
  
  How to Report:
  Submit your grievance in writing to the designated Case Manager at hr@avioninstitute.org and cc: rdaurio@RADDTraining.com or Mail to: 122 South Michigan Avenue, Suite 1390, Chicago, IL 60603
  Written complaints should include:
  - Description of the grievance
  - Date(s), time(s), and location(s)
  - Names of individuals involved (if known)
  - Any witnesses or documentation (if applicable)
  
  A support person or mentor may assist in preparing the grievance if the participant requires help.
  
  5. Grievance Intake and Acknowledgment
  
  Upon receipt, the Program Coordinator will:
  - Acknowledge the grievance within five (5) business days
  - Assign a case file number
  - Explain the next steps and expected timeline to the participant
  
  6. Investigation Process
  
  A neutral investigator, usually the Case Manager or a designee, will:
  - Conduct interviews with all relevant parties
  - Review supporting documentation
  - Maintain a confidential record of proceedings
  
  Resolution Timeline: The goal is to conclude the investigation within fifteen (15) business days of acknowledgment.
  
  Outcome: A written response outlining findings and, if applicable, corrective actions will be provided to the grievant.
  
  7. Confidentiality
  
  All grievances will be handled with discretion and sensitivity. While absolute confidentiality cannot be guaranteed (especially if safety or legal issues arise), all information will be shared strictly on a need-to-know basis.
  
  8. Non-Retaliation
  
  Retaliation against any participant who reports a grievance or takes part in an investigation is strictly prohibited. Any act of retaliation will be treated as a serious violation and may result in disciplinary action.
  
  9. Appeal Process
  
  If the participant is dissatisfied with the outcome, an appeal may be submitted within five (5) business days of receiving the decision.
  
  Appeals must be:
  - Submitted in writing to the Executive Director
  - Clearly state the basis for the appeal and any new evidence (if applicable)
  
  The Executive Director will conduct a secondary review and issue a final decision within ten (10) business days.
  
  10. Continuous Improvement
  
  The administrative team will review all grievances, outcomes, and patterns quarterly to identify trends and enhance the learning environment. Policy updates will be made annually and as required by legal or regulatory changes.
  
  11. Contact Information
  
  Case Manager
  hr@avioninstitute.org and
  
  rdaurio@RADDTraining.com
  
  122 South Michigan Avenue, Suite 1390
  
  Chicago, IL 60603
  
  224-623-1783
  
  Executive Director
  kristy.farrakhan@avioninstitute.org
  
  122 South Michigan Avenue, Suite 1390
  
  Chicago, IL 60603
  
  312-883-6383
  
  Project Manager
  
  lisa.muhammad@avioninstitute.org
  
  122 South Michigan Avenue, Suite 1390
  
  Chicago, IL 60603
  
  773-387-6223
- I acknowledge and agree to the terms above (Applicant or Parent/Guardian)
- Participant Image, Photography, and Video Release
  
  By signing this release, I hereby authorize the AeroStar Avion Institute to use the following personal information:
  
  1. My image – including photographic, motion picture, and electronic (video) images.
  2. My voice – including sound and video recordings.
  
  I grant the AeroStar Avion Institute, its representatives, agents, assigns, affiliates, contractors, and employees the right to take photographs and record videos of me in connection with the Institute’s programs and activities.
  
  I authorize the AeroStar Avion Institute, its assigns, and transferees to copyright, use, and publish these images and recordings in print and/or electronically. I agree that the AeroStar Avion Institute may use such photographs and recordings with or without my name for any lawful purpose, including promotional and marketing materials.
  
  Disclaimer
  The AeroStar Avion Institute hereby disclaims any and all representations, warranties, and guarantees regarding the program. There are no guarantees concerning the level of success each Participant may experience throughout the program. All testimonials and examples provided in promotional materials are exceptional results, which do not apply to every Participant. Each Participant’s success is entirely dependent on the individual, including the time dedicated to the program, ideas and techniques applied, financial resources, knowledge, and skills. Since these factors vary by individual, the AeroStar Avion Institute cannot guarantee success for every Participant, nor is it responsible for any Participant’s dissatisfaction.
- I acknowledge and agree to the terms above (Applicant or Parent/Guardian)
- Privacy Act & Data Protection Acknowledgment - Privacy Act of 1974 – Data Protection Statement
  
  I understand that any personal, educational, and sensitive information I provide to AeroStar Avion Institute NFP (AAI) is protected under the Privacy Act of 1974 and applicable federal and state privacy laws.
  
  I acknowledge and agree that:
  
  My information will be collected solely for program participation, eligibility verification, reporting, compliance, and program improvement purposes.
  My records will be stored in a secure, encrypted database with access limited to authorized personnel and approved funding partners as required for grant administration.
  Reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards are in place to protect my data against unauthorized access, disclosure, or misuse.
  By signing below, I certify that I understand and consent to the secure storage and use of my information in accordance with this statement
- I acknowledge and agree to the terms above (Applicant or Parent/Guardian)
- Selective Service Enrollment Requirement for AAI Aviation Pipeline Training Program
  
  All male applicants who are 18 years of age or older must be registered with the Selective Service System to participate in the AAI Aviation Pipeline Training Program. Proof of registration may be required as part of the enrollment process. This requirement aligns with federal regulations and ensures eligibility for various workforce and training opportunities.Let me know if you need any modifications!
- I acknowledge and agree to the terms above (Applicant or Parent/Guardian)

Applicant Parent or Guardian Signature

I have read the AeroStar Avion Institute Pipeline Apprenticeship Participant Application in its entirety, and I understand its terms and significance. My signature acknowledges that I fully understand and freely agree with the terms herein.
Parent or Guardian Name

First NameLast Name
Date

MonthDayYear
2 digit month, 2 digit day, 4 digit yearDate
Relationship to Applicant
Applicant (18 year old or older) or Parent/ Guardian Signature
Applicant Name

First NameLast Name
Date

MonthDayYear
2 digit month, 2 digit day, 4 digit yearDate
Participant Signature
Should be Empty:

AAI Flight and Maintenance Application

Personal Information

Youth Barries

School and Work Experience

AeroStar Avion Institute: Participant Rights and Responsibilities

Medical Release Participant Medical Information Instructions

Medical Certificate for Flight Participants Only

Medical Information, Release, and Authorization Agreement

Mandatory Legal Sign-Offs

Selective Service Enrollment Requirement for AAI Aviation Pipeline Training Program

Applicant Parent or Guardian Signature