We are thrilled to unveil the winner of ASG’s 2025 Pilot Training Scholarship, awarded annually to an aspiring aviator with the potential to shape the future of aviation. This year, after an incredibly competitive selection process, the honour has been awarded Ben Fitzpatrick, who is truly an exceptional candidate.
Ben’s story is one of ambition, unrelenting work ethic, and a lifelong dream to fly. A final-year student at SETU Carlow, Ben is completing a Bachelor of Engineering in Aircraft Systems—a degree choice that already reflects his deep commitment to the world of aviation. He is currently flying the Cessna 172 with Waterford Aero Club while undergoing his Private Pilot Licence (PPL) training, and while financial limitations have slowed his progress, his dream has never wavered. He has juggled college coursework, a part-time job, and flight training with incredible discipline—saving every cent to fund his flying journey. He now stands on the cusp of his graduation and is ready to fully dedicate himself to the path ahead. From childhood holidays spent glued to the aircraft window, to simulator visits and behind-the-scenes access at Dublin Airport’s control tower, Ben has always surrounded himself with aviation. His scholarship application was more than just a form—it was a story of potential, and a call for the final push that he needed to realise his potential.
Throughout his academic journey, Ben has consistently proven himself to be a high achiever. With 518 Leaving Certificate points, a 6-year streak as ‘Student of the Year’ in Secondary school, and a rapidly climbing GPA of over 80% during his University studies, he has shown that excellence is a habit. He’s also risen to leadership roles outside the classroom, becoming Retail Manager at SuperValu while studying full-time, a testament to his maturity, drive, and capacity for responsibility at such an early age.
Ben’s technical foundation in aerodynamics, flight mechanics, avionics, and human factors will serve him well as he now completes his PPL theory and then ATPL theory at ASG, but his unwavering dedication, passion, and discipline that made him the standout recipient. This year’s selection process was genuinely our most competitive to date and could have been awarded to any one of hundreds of inspiring students, and we extend our sincere thanks to each of the outstanding applicants who applied.
At ASG, we are incredibly proud to support Ben on this journey. Our scholarship exists to break down the barriers faced by talented individuals who have everything it takes to succeed in this demanding profession—and Ben embodies everything our scholarship stands for.
Congratulations, Ben. The sky is no longer the limit—it’s just the beginning!
