Pictured is Mia McKnight. Photo courtesy of PCF

PLACER COUNTY, CA (MPG) - Mia grew up in Grass Valley. She’s spent her entire life in Northern California, close to family and close to the forests that would eventually shape her calling.

She graduated from high school a year early, planning to study political science. But college costs made her hit pause. Instead, she worked, read, hiked and explored the outdoors — always wanting something more.

When wildfires swept toward her hometown in 2020, Mia stood in awe as aircraft soared overhead, deployed by CAL FIRE to battle the flames. That moment changed everything. She knew then she wanted to fly — not just for the thrill, but to serve her community.

But becoming a pilot isn’t easy, especially for young women, who make up less than 10% of the profession. It’s not cheap either. Training for a private pilot license can cost around $15,000. Mia, who had already paused college plans due to cost, now faced a steep climb.

That’s when the Auburn Aviation Association (AAA) stepped in. Through its endowment fund at Placer Community Foundation, Mia received a $10,000 scholarship.

“It changed everything,” she said. “I couldn’t stop smiling. It made me believe I could actually do this.”

That belief carried her through the rigors of training, and today, at just 20 years old, Mia has over 1,200 flight hours — nearing the 1,500 required for her Airline Transport Pilot license. She’s now a certified multi-engine flight instructor, mentors new students, and even serves as assistant scholarship director at AAA, helping others find the same opportunity she received.

Mia says the scholarship didn’t just fund flight hours — it fueled her confidence, her career and her sense of purpose.

"Whether it's $5 or $10,000, you're giving someone a chance to change their life," said Mia McKnight. "And when you lift someone up, you carry others with them." 

To donate to the AAA Endowment Fund, visit: https://placer.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=1181