R. A. Rearwin Scholarship Fund

Scholarship Sponsored by San Diego Air & Space

History of the Award
**Founding**
The R.A. Rearwin Scholarship Fund was created in 2000 by Kenneth Rearwin together with members of the Rearwin family to honor their late father, a noted aircraft and engine manufacturer. The fund was established as a memorial and as a practical way to support the next generation of aerospace professionals. Its creation links a family legacy in aviation manufacturing with ongoing support for students entering aerospace-related fields. The historical roots emphasize both commemoration and investment in industry talent.
- Established in 2000 by Kenneth Rearwin and family
- Created to honor the Rearwin family patriarch (an aircraft/engine manufacturer)
- Intended as a memorial and practical support for future aerospace professionals

Description
**Purpose and Focus**
The R.A. Rearwin Scholarship supports students who demonstrate a committed interest in careers within the aerospace industry, especially those attracted to hands-on work. It targets applicants planning to pursue college-level study in aerospace-related disciplines and seeks to nurture practical, technical career pathways. The scholarship emphasizes readiness for technical training and long-term contribution to aviation and aerospace fields.
- Supports students with strong aerospace career intentions
- Prioritizes applicants with practical, hands-on interests
- Targets those planning degrees in aerospace-related fields

Eligibility
**Who Can Apply**
Applicants must be graduating seniors from San Diego County high schools who intend to enroll at a four-year college. The scholarship is geographically restricted to students residing in or attending high school within San Diego County. Eligibility is limited to high school seniors preparing for immediate matriculation to a four-year institution.
- Open only to graduating seniors of San Diego County high schools
- Applicants must plan to attend a four-year college
- Geographic restriction: San Diego County

Award Value
**Typical Award Amount**
Individual awards from the R.A. Rearwin Scholarship Fund have ranged from $2,500 to $4,000. Award amounts vary by year and by recipient; each award is intended to help offset undergraduate education costs. The scholarship is a one-time disbursement per award cycle unless otherwise noted by the administering organization.
- Award range: $2,500–$4,000
- Amounts vary by recipient and year
- Designed to help offset undergraduate expenses

Basis of Selection
**Selection Criteria**
Recipients are chosen based on academic achievement, a demonstrable aviation/aerospace career interest, and plans to pursue degrees in relevant technical fields such as math, physics, science, or engineering. The committee evaluates candidates’ academic records alongside evidence of sustained commitment to aviation or aerospace pathways. Candidates who combine scholastic strength with clear technical and career intent are prioritized.
- Academic achievement is a core criterion
- Demonstrated aviation/aerospace career interest required
- Preference for applicants pursuing math, physics, science, or engineering degrees

Application Process and Timeline
**How to Apply**
Applications are submitted through the San Diego Air & Space Museum’s online scholarship portal. Eligible applicants who pass the initial review will be invited to participate in an interview as part of the selection process. Specific application deadlines and the annual timeline are published by the museum; applicants should check the museum’s website each award cycle for current dates and submission requirements.
- Apply via the San Diego Air & Space Museum online application portal
- Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed
- Deadlines and timeline posted annually on the museum’s website

Contact Information
**Where to Find More Information**
The San Diego Air & Space Museum administers the scholarship and hosts application materials and details on its website. For questions about eligibility, deadlines, or the application process, consult the museum’s scholarships or education pages. The museum’s online resources are the primary source for current program details and contact instructions.
- Administered by the San Diego Air & Space Museum
- Application materials and deadlines available on the museum website
- Use the museum’s online contact channels for inquiries