Two seniors are flying high as the recipients of a $10,000 scholarship, guiding their future in civil aviation. Seniors David Partin II and Thomas Lynch, members of the school’s “Introduction to Aviation” program, were recently awarded a $10,000 scholarship from the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.
The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum: Pathways Grant scholarship provides the opportunity to not only attain their pilot but can be applied toward an aeronautical engineering degree at the school of their choice. “This was a huge opportunity that allowed me to start my training,” explains Lynch. “Without this, it would have taken me many more years to get started.” Partin is focusing on his future in aviation and has already obtained his pilot’s license. “The scholarship …signifies that I can accomplish a lot if I put the work in,” notes Partin.
The Aeronautical program’s teacher at Saint Louis School, John McIntyre, was filled with “a sense of pride and admiration.” McIntyre has taught the aeronautical program at Saint Louis School for two years. “These gentlemen chose a path of success in aviation, and I’m truly excited…to witness their continued development as young professionals,” says McIntyre. 
Not all things come easy, as the application process for the two recipients took about four to six months to complete. Partin and Lynch had to write multiple essays and recommendations, complete extensive paperwork, and set up interviews. With their excellent work ethic and driven passion for aviation, the two seniors finally got the call. “The mission of our Saint Louis School Introduction to Aviation course, in conjunction with the Pearl Harbor Museum learning center…is precisely this pursuit to instill an interest in our students and open their minds to possibility,” explains McIntyre, who encourages students to participate in these programs and scholarship opportunities.
The love for something always has an origin. Partin’s passion for aviation began as a child, taking his pull-out airplane toy everywhere he went. Lynch’s love for aviation started when he visited the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum at seven. Lynch’s brother was another reason behind his passion for aviation, as he taught Lynch about planes and flying. “I love aviation because it combines science, precision, and freedom,” says Lynch, “offering an unparalleled way to explore the world and challenge myself.”
The program started from the influences of Saint Louis School’s principal, Tim Los Banos, and president, Dr. Glenn Medeiros, who wanted to collaborate with aviation experts from the Pearl Harbor Museum. This interaction led to Saint Louis School being the only high school in Hawai’i to offer this course. The program offers countless opportunities for students to learn and experience different fields within the aeronautical and aerospace industries. When the program started in 2023, McIntyre envisioned the “aviation program to “inspire.” He quotes, “To enlighten students to experiences and opportunities they might not have otherwise considered.”
Partin joined the aviation program to get into scholarship programs and was encouraged by his father. He also hoped to gain more flight hours and to build his leadership skills. “I think the main goal of Civil Air Patrol is to build future leaders,” says Partin. Lynch joined the program hoping to obtain a private pilot license and a better understanding of flight operations. He believes the program aims to “encourage more youth in Hawaii to become pilots” and adds the importance of “addressing the current shortage in the industry.” Throughout the past year of the program, students have made memories and gained countless amounts of aviation knowledge. This program is special because “people who you see joined when they were young,” shares Partin, are now “ the ones being leaders…”
As the two seniors soar sky high with the $10,000 scholarship, their passion for aviation will help support whatever direction their future takes them. This milestone in their life will leave a remarkable legacy and impact on their families and future aviators. Their accomplishment reminds us that with hard work and perseverance, the sky is truly the limit.
