user profile avatar

Grayson Capko

685

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

Bio

I am a passionate and driven individual with a deep fascination for the world of aviation, aspire to become an aviation mechanic. Born and raised in Florida, and has always had a natural curiosity for aircraft and the inner workings of these magnificent machines.

Education

Aviation Institute of Maintenance-Orlando

Trade School
2023 - 2025
  • Majors:
    • Mechanic and Repair Technologies/Technicians, Other

Seminole State College

Bachelor's degree program
2020 - 2022
  • Majors:
    • Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Trade School

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Heavy/Industrial Equipment Maintenance Technologies/Technicians
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Airlines/Aviation

    • Dream career goals:

    • Account Manager

      Paylocity
      2022 – Present2 years

    Sports

    Football

    Junior Varsity
    2011 – 20121 year

    Awards

    • No

    Research

    • Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other

      Seminole State College — Participant
      2022 – 2022

    Arts

    • Metal Band

      Music
      We created 3 albums
      2014 – 2017

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Paylocity — Volenteer
      2023 – Present
    Ben Bonner Memorial Scholarship
    The fascination with aviation that courses through my veins like jet fuel can be traced back to my earliest memories. My journey into this awe-inspiring world began as a young child, grew into a lifelong passion, and ultimately set me on the path to becoming an aviation mechanic with the dream of obtaining an A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) certification. From my very first flight on a commercial airliner, I was entranced by the world beyond the clouds. As I gazed out the window at the vast expanse of the sky, I knew that aviation was my destiny. The sound of jet engines roaring to life, the sensation of takeoff, and the breathtaking views from 30,000 feet above the ground all left an indelible mark on my impressionable young mind. My bedroom walls quickly became a tribute to aviation. I adorned them with posters of iconic aircraft, from the sleek lines of fighter jets to the majestic form of commercial airliners. As I grew older, my curiosity led me to delve deeper into aviation. I devoured books, documentaries, and magazines on the subject, amassing a wealth of knowledge about the history, technology, and mechanics of aircraft. In the classroom, I was introduced to the intricacies of aircraft systems and maintenance procedures. I learned about airframes, powerplants, avionics, and safety protocols. The theoretical knowledge provided me with a solid foundation, but I yearned for practical experience. I actively sought opportunities for hands-on learning. Through internships and apprenticeships at local aircraft maintenance facilities, I had the privilege of working alongside experienced aviation mechanics. These mentors taught me invaluable lessons that textbooks alone could not convey. The smell of aviation fuel and the roar of engines became my everyday companions. I gained firsthand experience inspecting, repairing, and maintaining various aircraft. My apprenticeship was not without its challenges, but the satisfaction of diagnosing a problem and ensuring the safety of an aircraft was unparalleled. Throughout my educational journey and hands-on experience, one goal has consistently burned brightly in my heart: to obtain an A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) certification. The A&P certification is the gold standard in the aviation maintenance field and opens doors to a wide range of opportunities. With the A&P certification, I will have the knowledge and skills necessary to inspect, maintain, and repair aircraft. I will be equipped to work on both airframes (the structural components of an aircraft) and powerplants (the engines and propulsion systems). This comprehensive certification will not only validate my expertise but also enable me to contribute to the safety and efficiency of the aviation industry. My journey into aviation has been a lifelong odyssey fueled by a deep-seated passion. From childhood dreams ignited by the magic of flight to the pursuit of formal education and hands-on experience, every step has brought me closer to my goal of becoming an aviation mechanic with an A&P certification. My passion for aviation has always been more than just a hobby; it's a calling, a vocation, and a dream that I am determined to realize. The path may be challenging, but I am committed to it with unwavering dedication. As I work towards achieving my A&P certification, I look forward to the day when I can contribute to the safety and reliability of aircraft, ensuring that others can continue to experience the wonder of flight that has captivated me since childhood.
    Slater Miller Memorial Fund
    The fascination with aviation that courses through my veins like jet fuel can be traced back to my earliest memories. My journey into this awe-inspiring world began as a young child, grew into a lifelong passion, and ultimately set me on the path to becoming an aviation mechanic with the dream of obtaining an A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) certification. From my very first flight on a commercial airliner, I was entranced by the world beyond the clouds. As I gazed out the window at the vast expanse of the sky, I knew that aviation was my destiny. The sound of jet engines roaring to life, the sensation of takeoff, and the breathtaking views from 30,000 feet above the ground all left an indelible mark on my impressionable young mind. My bedroom walls quickly became a tribute to aviation. I adorned them with posters of iconic aircraft, from the sleek lines of fighter jets to the majestic form of commercial airliners. As I grew older, my curiosity led me to delve deeper into aviation. I devoured books, documentaries, and magazines on the subject, amassing a wealth of knowledge about the history, technology, and mechanics of aircraft. In the classroom, I was introduced to the intricacies of aircraft systems and maintenance procedures. I learned about airframes, powerplants, avionics, and safety protocols. The theoretical knowledge provided me with a solid foundation, but I yearned for practical experience. I actively sought opportunities for hands-on learning. Through internships and apprenticeships at local aircraft maintenance facilities, I had the privilege of working alongside experienced aviation mechanics. These mentors taught me invaluable lessons that textbooks alone could not convey. The smell of aviation fuel and the roar of engines became my everyday companions. I gained firsthand experience inspecting, repairing, and maintaining various aircraft. My apprenticeship was not without its challenges, but the satisfaction of diagnosing a problem and ensuring the safety of an aircraft was unparalleled. Throughout my educational journey and hands-on experience, one goal has consistently burned brightly in my heart: to obtain an A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) certification. The A&P certification is the gold standard in the aviation maintenance field and opens doors to a wide range of opportunities. With the A&P certification, I will have the knowledge and skills necessary to inspect, maintain, and repair aircraft. I will be equipped to work on both airframes (the structural components of an aircraft) and powerplants (the engines and propulsion systems). This comprehensive certification will not only validate my expertise but also enable me to contribute to the safety and efficiency of the aviation industry. My journey into aviation has been a lifelong odyssey fueled by a deep-seated passion. From childhood dreams ignited by the magic of flight to the pursuit of formal education and hands-on experience, every step has brought me closer to my goal of becoming an aviation mechanic with an A&P certification. My passion for aviation has always been more than just a hobby; it's a calling, a vocation, and a dream that I am determined to realize. The path may be challenging, but I am committed to it with unwavering dedication. As I work towards achieving my A&P certification, I look forward to the day when I can contribute to the safety and reliability of aircraft, ensuring that others can continue to experience the wonder of flight that has captivated me since childhood.
    Joshua’s Home Remodeling Scholarship
    The fascination with aviation that courses through my veins like jet fuel can be traced back to my earliest memories. My journey into this awe-inspiring world began as a young child, grew into a lifelong passion, and ultimately set me on the path to becoming an aviation mechanic with the dream of obtaining an A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) certification. From my very first flight on a commercial airliner, I was entranced by the world beyond the clouds. As I gazed out the window at the vast expanse of the sky, I knew that aviation was my destiny. The sound of jet engines roaring to life, the sensation of takeoff, and the breathtaking views from 30,000 feet above the ground all left an indelible mark on my impressionable young mind. My bedroom walls quickly became a tribute to aviation. I adorned them with posters of iconic aircraft, from the sleek lines of fighter jets to the majestic form of commercial airliners. As I grew older, my curiosity led me to delve deeper into aviation. I devoured books, documentaries, and magazines on the subject, amassing a wealth of knowledge about the history, technology, and mechanics of aircraft. In the classroom, I was introduced to the intricacies of aircraft systems and maintenance procedures. I learned about airframes, powerplants, avionics, and safety protocols. The theoretical knowledge provided me with a solid foundation, but I yearned for practical experience. I actively sought opportunities for hands-on learning. Through internships and apprenticeships at local aircraft maintenance facilities, I had the privilege of working alongside experienced aviation mechanics. These mentors taught me invaluable lessons that textbooks alone could not convey. The smell of aviation fuel and the roar of engines became my everyday companions. I gained firsthand experience inspecting, repairing, and maintaining various aircraft. My apprenticeship was not without its challenges, but the satisfaction of diagnosing a problem and ensuring the safety of an aircraft was unparalleled. Throughout my educational journey and hands-on experience, one goal has consistently burned brightly in my heart: to obtain an A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) certification. The A&P certification is the gold standard in the aviation maintenance field and opens doors to a wide range of opportunities. With the A&P certification, I will have the knowledge and skills necessary to inspect, maintain, and repair aircraft. I will be equipped to work on both airframes (the structural components of an aircraft) and powerplants (the engines and propulsion systems). This comprehensive certification will not only validate my expertise but also enable me to contribute to the safety and efficiency of the aviation industry. My journey into aviation has been a lifelong odyssey fueled by a deep-seated passion. From childhood dreams ignited by the magic of flight to the pursuit of formal education and hands-on experience, every step has brought me closer to my goal of becoming an aviation mechanic with an A&P certification. My passion for aviation has always been more than just a hobby; it's a calling, a vocation, and a dream that I am determined to realize. The path may be challenging, but I am committed to it with unwavering dedication. As I work towards achieving my A&P certification, I look forward to the day when I can contribute to the safety and reliability of aircraft, ensuring that others can continue to experience the wonder of flight that has captivated me since childhood.
    Russell Koci Skilled Trade Scholarship
    The fascination with aviation that courses through my veins like jet fuel can be traced back to my earliest memories. My journey into this awe-inspiring world began as a young child, grew into a lifelong passion, and ultimately set me on the path to becoming an aviation mechanic with the dream of obtaining an A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) certification. From my very first flight on a commercial airliner, I was entranced by the world beyond the clouds. As I gazed out the window at the vast expanse of the sky, I knew that aviation was my destiny. The sound of jet engines roaring to life, the sensation of takeoff, and the breathtaking views from 30,000 feet above the ground all left an indelible mark on my impressionable young mind. My bedroom walls quickly became a tribute to aviation. I adorned them with posters of iconic aircraft, from the sleek lines of fighter jets to the majestic form of commercial airliners. As I grew older, my curiosity led me to delve deeper into aviation. I devoured books, documentaries, and magazines on the subject, amassing a wealth of knowledge about the history, technology, and mechanics of aircraft. In the classroom, I was introduced to the intricacies of aircraft systems and maintenance procedures. I learned about airframes, powerplants, avionics, and safety protocols. The theoretical knowledge provided me with a solid foundation, but I yearned for practical experience. I actively sought opportunities for hands-on learning. Through internships and apprenticeships at local aircraft maintenance facilities, I had the privilege of working alongside experienced aviation mechanics. These mentors taught me invaluable lessons that textbooks alone could not convey. The smell of aviation fuel and the roar of engines became my everyday companions. I gained firsthand experience inspecting, repairing, and maintaining various aircraft. My apprenticeship was not without its challenges, but the satisfaction of diagnosing a problem and ensuring the safety of an aircraft was unparalleled. Throughout my educational journey and hands-on experience, one goal has consistently burned brightly in my heart: to obtain an A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) certification. The A&P certification is the gold standard in the aviation maintenance field and opens doors to a wide range of opportunities. With the A&P certification, I will have the knowledge and skills necessary to inspect, maintain, and repair aircraft. I will be equipped to work on both airframes (the structural components of an aircraft) and powerplants (the engines and propulsion systems). This comprehensive certification will not only validate my expertise but also enable me to contribute to the safety and efficiency of the aviation industry. My journey into aviation has been a lifelong odyssey fueled by a deep-seated passion. From childhood dreams ignited by the magic of flight to the pursuit of formal education and hands-on experience, every step has brought me closer to my goal of becoming an aviation mechanic with an A&P certification. My passion for aviation has always been more than just a hobby; it's a calling, a vocation, and a dream that I am determined to realize. The path may be challenging, but I am committed to it with unwavering dedication. As I work towards achieving my A&P certification, I look forward to the day when I can contribute to the safety and reliability of aircraft, ensuring that others can continue to experience the wonder of flight that has captivated me since childhood.
    Uniball's Skilled Trades Scholarship
    The fascination with aviation that courses through my veins like jet fuel can be traced back to my earliest memories. My journey into this awe-inspiring world began as a young child, grew into a lifelong passion, and ultimately set me on the path to becoming an aviation mechanic with the dream of obtaining an A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) certification. From my very first flight on a commercial airliner, I was entranced by the world beyond the clouds. As I gazed out the window at the vast expanse of the sky, I knew that aviation was my destiny. The sound of jet engines roaring to life, the sensation of takeoff, and the breathtaking views from 30,000 feet above the ground all left an indelible mark on my impressionable young mind. My bedroom walls quickly became a tribute to aviation. I adorned them with posters of iconic aircraft, from the sleek lines of fighter jets to the majestic form of commercial airliners. As I grew older, my curiosity led me to delve deeper into aviation. I devoured books, documentaries, and magazines on the subject, amassing a wealth of knowledge about the history, technology, and mechanics of aircraft. In the classroom, I was introduced to the intricacies of aircraft systems and maintenance procedures. I learned about airframes, powerplants, avionics, and safety protocols. The theoretical knowledge provided me with a solid foundation, but I yearned for practical experience. I actively sought opportunities for hands-on learning. Through internships and apprenticeships at local aircraft maintenance facilities, I had the privilege of working alongside experienced aviation mechanics. These mentors taught me invaluable lessons that textbooks alone could not convey. The smell of aviation fuel and the roar of engines became my everyday companions. I gained firsthand experience inspecting, repairing, and maintaining various aircraft. My apprenticeship was not without its challenges, but the satisfaction of diagnosing a problem and ensuring the safety of an aircraft was unparalleled. Throughout my educational journey and hands-on experience, one goal has consistently burned brightly in my heart: to obtain an A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) certification. The A&P certification is the gold standard in the aviation maintenance field and opens doors to a wide range of opportunities. With the A&P certification, I will have the knowledge and skills necessary to inspect, maintain, and repair aircraft. I will be equipped to work on both airframes (the structural components of an aircraft) and powerplants (the engines and propulsion systems). This comprehensive certification will not only validate my expertise but also enable me to contribute to the safety and efficiency of the aviation industry. My journey into aviation has been a lifelong odyssey fueled by a deep-seated passion. From childhood dreams ignited by the magic of flight to the pursuit of formal education and hands-on experience, every step has brought me closer to my goal of becoming an aviation mechanic with an A&P certification. My passion for aviation has always been more than just a hobby; it's a calling, a vocation, and a dream that I am determined to realize. The path may be challenging, but I am committed to it with unwavering dedication. As I work towards achieving my A&P certification, I look forward to the day when I can contribute to the safety and reliability of aircraft, ensuring that others can continue to experience the wonder of flight that has captivated me since childhood.
    Dr. Alexanderia K. Lane Memorial Scholarship
    In a world that often seems uncertain and divided, it is the personal experiences of helping others that have truly shaped my understanding of the profound importance of kindness. Through these small acts of compassion and support, I've come to believe that they hold the key to making the world a better place. In this essay, I will share some of these meaningful experiences and reflect on how they have impacted my perspective on the power of helping others. One experience that stands out vividly in my memory is the simple act of helping a neighbor carry groceries up the stairs. It was a small gesture, but as I watched her face light up with gratitude, I realized the incredible ripple effect of kindness. That day, I felt a warmth in my heart that stayed with me for hours, reminding me of the joy that comes from helping others. In the weeks that followed, I noticed a change in our neighborhood. People were more willing to lend a hand, share a smile, and offer support. My small act of kindness had ignited a chain reaction of goodwill that extended far beyond that one moment. It taught me that every act of kindness, no matter how modest, has the potential to create a more compassionate and connected community. Another experience that deeply touched my heart involved volunteering at a local shelter. I had the opportunity to spend time with individuals who were facing difficult circumstances. As I listened to their stories and offered a helping hand, I witnessed the power of these small acts of support in building stronger connections. The bonds I formed with the people I met at the shelter were a testament to the transformative nature of helping others. We shared laughter, tears, and moments of genuine connection that transcended our differences. Through these experiences, I came to understand that helping others isn't just about offering assistance; it's about forging meaningful relationships and fostering a sense of belonging. Helping others has not only impacted those I've assisted but has also had a profound effect on my own personal growth and fulfillment. It was during a volunteering trip to a local nursing home that I experienced this firsthand. Spending time with the elderly residents, hearing their life stories, and offering companionship enriched my life in ways I had never imagined. Through these interactions, I discovered a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment. I found that when we help others, we not only bring light into their lives but also into our own. The smiles on the faces of those I had the privilege to spend time with became a source of immense happiness for me. It reinforced my belief that acts of kindness are a powerful source of personal well-being. While my experiences have been primarily local, they have also broadened my perspective on the importance of helping others on a global scale. Through supporting international charitable organizations and advocating for sustainable practices, I've realized that even from afar, I can contribute to making the world a better place. My personal experiences with helping others have illuminated the profound significance of small acts of kindness. These experiences have shown me the immense power of compassion, the transformative nature of support, and the personal growth and fulfillment that come from extending a helping hand. Through these moments, I have come to understand that we all have the ability to make the world a better place, one act of kindness at a time.
    Craig Huffman Memorial Scholarship
    The fascination with aviation that courses through my veins like jet fuel can be traced back to my earliest memories. My journey into this awe-inspiring world began as a young child, grew into a lifelong passion, and ultimately set me on the path to becoming an aviation mechanic with the dream of obtaining an A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) certification. From my very first flight on a commercial airliner, I was entranced by the world beyond the clouds. As I gazed out the window at the vast expanse of the sky, I knew that aviation was my destiny. The sound of jet engines roaring to life, the sensation of takeoff, and the breathtaking views from 30,000 feet above the ground all left an indelible mark on my impressionable young mind. Upon graduating from high school, I was faced with the pivotal decision of how to turn my passion for aviation into a career. I chose to enroll in an aviation maintenance program at a reputable institution. This decision marked the beginning of my formal journey into the world of aviation mechanics. In the classroom, I was introduced to the intricacies of aircraft systems and maintenance procedures. I learned about airframes, powerplants, avionics, and safety protocols. The theoretical knowledge provided me with a solid foundation, but I yearned for practical experience. I actively sought opportunities for hands-on learning. Through internships and apprenticeships at local aircraft maintenance facilities, I had the privilege of working alongside experienced aviation mechanics. These mentors taught me invaluable lessons that textbooks alone could not convey. The smell of aviation fuel and the roar of engines became my everyday companions. I gained firsthand experience inspecting, repairing, and maintaining various aircraft. My apprenticeship was not without its challenges, but the satisfaction of diagnosing a problem and ensuring the safety of an aircraft was unparalleled. Throughout my educational journey and hands-on experience, one goal has consistently burned brightly in my heart: to obtain an A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) certification. The A&P certification is the gold standard in the aviation maintenance field and opens doors to a wide range of opportunities. With the A&P certification, I will have the knowledge and skills necessary to inspect, maintain, and repair aircraft. I will be equipped to work on both airframes (the structural components of an aircraft) and powerplants (the engines and propulsion systems). This comprehensive certification will not only validate my expertise but also enable me to contribute to the safety and efficiency of the aviation industry. My journey into aviation has been a lifelong odyssey fueled by a deep-seated passion. From childhood dreams ignited by the magic of flight to the pursuit of formal education and hands-on experience, every step has brought me closer to my goal of becoming an aviation mechanic with an A&P certification. My passion for aviation has always been more than just a hobby; it's a calling, a vocation, and a dream that I am determined to realize. The path may be challenging, but I am committed to it with unwavering dedication. As I work towards achieving my A&P certification, I look forward to the day when I can contribute to the safety and reliability of aircraft, ensuring that others can continue to experience the wonder of flight that has captivated me since childhood.
    Mental Health Importance Scholarship
    Mental health is crucial in today's world, affecting every aspect of our lives. It encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being and plays a pivotal role in our daily lives. Just as physical health is vital for our overall well-being, mental health is equally significant. It affects our ability to form and maintain relationships, make rational decisions, handle stress, and achieve our goals. Neglecting one's mental health can lead to various health problems, making it crucial to address psychological well-being proactively. This is something that I have learned over the course of my life and I wish I could have been taught earlier. My Friends and family are significant sources of support when it comes to maintaining good mental health. They provide companionship, empathy, and a listening ear during difficult times. Friendships offer a sense of belonging and social connectedness, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness. These connections provide emotional support, helping us cope with stress and anxiety. Friends often provide a different perspective on our problems, helping me gain valuable insights and solutions to challenges. Family members offer a sense of security and stability, which can alleviate stress and anxiety. Family gatherings and traditions create a sense of belonging and identity, promoting emotional well-being. They also provide a safe space where we can openly discuss our concerns and seek advice. I believe that education plays a pivotal role in shaping our mental health positively. It equips us with the tools to understand ourselves better and teaches us about emotional intelligence, stress management, and coping strategies. These skills are invaluable in maintaining good mental health. Educational institutions are increasingly recognizing the importance of mental health and providing resources and support to students. Counseling services, stress management workshops, and awareness campaigns are becoming more prevalent, helping students develop the necessary skills to navigate the challenges of academia while safeguarding their mental well-being. It also provides a space for many people of different backgrounds to come together to push each other in a positive direction. Recognizing the significance of mental health is the first step toward leading a fulfilling and balanced life. We must prioritize our mental well-being to face life's challenges with resilience and adaptability. In conclusion, mental health is of utmost importance because it impacts every facet of our lives. It affects our relationships with friends and family, our physical health, and our ability to excel in education. Let us commit to prioritizing our mental well-being on this journey.