September 9, 2025 |

✈️ AS THE PROP TURNS…

Aerospace Center for Excellence is proud to spotlight one of the 2025 James C. Ray Flight Training Scholarship Awardees: Raija Fiskum. Raija was awarded in February and has been successfully soaring the skies since then. She is currently a senior at Polk State Chain of Lakes Collegiate High School. As a collegiate high school student, she is pursuing an Associate in Science degree in Professional Pilot Science. Graduates of the collegiate high school have an opportunity to earn their diploma and an associate’s degree simultaneously. 

Raija’s interest in flying includes the technical aspects of flight, such as stall recoveries, as well as the unique communication system with Air Traffic Control to ensure safe take-offs and landings. She recently successfully performed her solo cross-country that she described as an “adventurous feeling.” Soloing is one benchmark of the scholarship award and demonstrates mastery of flight. Raija has been checking off the requirements of the scholarship with efficiency and enthusiasm.

This past summer, Raija was selected to participate in the University of North Dakota’s International Aerospace Camp; she was one of four students from Polk County. A few of her favorite moments from the summer camp were the night flight, the IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) flight, and the helicopter simulator. She exclaims, “I will never forget the experiences I had [at UND]!”

Raija intends to use her college degree in aviation to become a missionary pilot. She explains, “Most missionary pilots transport missionaries and deliver bibles, food, and medical supplies into hard-to-reach villages. Many of the locations that missionary pilots fly to are in extremely remote locations such as jungles in countries like Indonesia, Ecuador, and Brazil.” Raija has been plotting her way toward a fruitful career as a missionary pilot and ACE is ecstatic to be a part of her journey. 

In addition to aviation, Raija’s interests are vast and varied. She serves as the Senior Representative on the National Honor Society Board and is a member of the Senior Ambassador Club for her high school. She shoots archery for Winter Haven Christian School and plays Girls Varsity Soccer for Winter Haven High School. Raija is incredibly well-rounded and engages in many challenging activities. 

ACE applauds Raija Fiskum and looks forward to witnessing her continued ascent! Stay tuned to hear more about her journey!

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