Academy for Latinos in Aerospace Science (ALAS) is a signature program of the Latino Pilots Association (LPA) designed to inspire, mentor, and empower minority high school students through exposure to aviation and aerospace careers.
Our mission is to create pathways into the aviation industry by providing students with access to:
✔️ Career exploration opportunities
✔️ Mentorship from aviation professionals
✔️ Scholarships and grants for pilot, mechanic, and technical training
ALAS is committed to breaking barriers and promoting diversity in aviation. Through hands-on experiences and direct connections with pilots, engineers, mechanics, air traffic controllers, and more, students gain a deeper understanding of the industry and the confidence to pursue their dreams.
Our mentorship program connects students with experienced professionals who offer guidance, support, and real-world insight. By bridging generations, we foster growth, representation, and long-term success in aerospace.
We also understand the financial challenges many students face. That’s why ALAS offers scholarships and grants to help remove those obstacles—ensuring that passion and talent, not finances, define our future leaders in aviation.
Academy Information
The 2025 Academy for Latinos in Aerospace Science (ALAS) will be in two locations:
- Denver ALAS - July 7th to July 11th, 2025
- Orlando ALAS - July 28th to July 30th, 2025
During the ALAS Academy, students will be participating in the following activities:
● Take an introductory flight
● Tour Aviation facilities
● Participate in hands-on activities involving aircraft piloting, maintenance, engineering, and flight deck procedures
● Meet and socialize with many aviation professionals from the community
● Receive presentations from various organization experts in the aviation field
● Receive a free 1-year membership for LPA (Latin Professionals in Aerospace)
● Learn about the different aviation scholarships you can apply for through the LPA organization
Requirements
Must complete the ALAS Academy registration online at LatinoPilots.org
Must write a short essay (200 words) on why you would be a good fit for the ALAS Academy
Must be in High school or attending High school the next coming school year
Must maintain and demonstrate a high standard of behavior and self-discipline and abide by all academy rules and regulations.
Must attend and pass an interview with ALAS directors.
Must pay a 40$ application fee. If you are an LPA member, the application fee is 20$.*
*Fee will only be charged once accepted into the academy.
Contact Information
Gabriel Mercado
LPA ALAS Academy Director
📧 gabriel.mercado@latinopilot.org
Camila Turrieta
LPA ALAS Academy Assistant Director
📧 camila.turrieta@latinopilot.org
DENVER ALAS
Claudia Zapata-Cardone
LPA ALAS Denver Director
Captain, United Airlines
📧 claudia.zapata-cardone@latinopilot.org
Adriana Bendek Rodriguez
LPA ALAS Denver Assistant Director
Captain, United Airlines
📧 adriana.bendeck@latinopilot.org
Adrian Martinez
LPA Denver Chapter Lead
📧 denver@latinopilot.org
ORLANDO ALAS
Miriam Lainez
LPA ALAS Orlando Academy Director
📧 miriam.lainez@jetblue.com
Anton Arabia
LPA ALAS Orlando Assistant Director
📧 anton.arabia@jetblue.com
Upcoming ALAS events
-
Denver, CO
July 7 - Visit DIA, tour ramp, flight ops, Systems operations center, UAL tech ops
July 8 - Visit Boulder Airport, introductory glider flights, Wings over the Rockies museum
July 9 - UAL Flight Training Center tour, Emergency equipment demonstration, lessons on aerodynamics, full flight simulators
July 10 - Visit Broomfield Airport, introductory powered flight lessons
July 11 - Visit Metropolitan State University to learn about aviation programs, graduation ceremony in the afternoon.
Experience the world of aviation in Denver with an exciting introductory flight, facility tours, and hands-on activities in piloting, maintenance, engineering, and flight deck procedures. Connect with aviation professionals, attend expert presentations, and receive a free 1-year membership to Latin Professionals in Aerospace (LPA). Plus, explore exclusive scholarship opportunities available through LPA.
-
Orlando, FL
July 28th - JetBlue Tour, Sims, Guest Speakers
July 29th - Visit Orlando International Airport (MCO) Airport
July 30th - Discovery Flights, Student Graduation
Explore aviation in Orlando with an introductory flight, hands-on activities, and facility tours. Meet industry professionals, attend expert presentations, and receive a free 1-year membership to Latin Professionals in Aerospace (LPA), along with access to exclusive scholarship opportunities.
ALAS Sponsors
ALAS Denver
ALAS Orlando
