From Cabin Crew to Cockpit: Scholarship Boost

American Airlines has awarded its 2025 Elise Eberwein Cadet Academy Pilot Scholarships to two team members transitioning from the cabin to the flight deck. Flight attendants Kele Lowery, based in Dallas-Fort Worth, and Courtney Rumbaugh, based in Miami, will each receive $50,000 toward their flight training.

Now in its second year, the scholarship honors former Executive Vice President Elise Eberwein by supporting employees with the passion and potential to become pilots, especially those facing financial barriers.

Lowery, originally from Blaine, Tennessee, said the scholarship empowers her to break barriers and inspire others. “I want to show young girls in small towns that they can achieve anything,” she said.

Rumbaugh, who grew up near Florida’s Kennedy Space Center, began flight training before joining American. She sees her time as a flight attendant as essential experience that will strengthen her leadership in the cockpit.

“These recipients reflect the dedication and vision we value in future pilots,” said Nathan Gatten, Executive Vice President overseeing the Cadet Academy. “We’re proud to support their journey.”

American will open the next scholarship application cycle in late 2025 as part of a decade-long initiative to promote internal career growth.