The Karen Johnson Solo Scholarship

The Karen Johnson Solo Scholarship provides up to $3,000 for flight training toward an initial pilot rating for young women between 16-20 years of age (at any time during the calendar year) who want to learn to fly. 

The scholarship will not be offered in 2025. It will next be awarded at EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, WI at the 99s Aviation Appreciation Dinner in July 2026. Applications will be accepted in June 2026- Please check back then for details. 

Karen Johnson was a beloved member and chapter chair of the Ventura County Ninety-Nines who perished on January 2, 2013 while flying frost control in Delano, California. The VC99s have established this site as a tribute to her memory.

Karen touched many of our lives, inspiring many of us to pursue advanced training.  While we enjoyed her spunk and humor while she was with us, her exceptional determination and focus should be shared with others. The Ventura County 99s will celebrate her memory and accomplishments with the establishment of a Karen Johnson Solo Scholarship.