Patti Grace Smith Fellowship

The Patti Grace Smith Fellowship is a national initiative dedicated to supporting and celebrating Black excellence in aerospace. Named after Patti Grace Smith, a pivotal figure in American aerospace regulation and advocacy, the Fellowship targets Black undergraduate students who have not yet entered the aerospace workforce. It provides a pathway to professional opportunity through job placements, financial grants, mentorship, and community support, aiming to create a more inclusive aerospace sector. The Fellowship is structured as a multi-step application and selection program. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a bachelor's or associate degree program, be legally authorized to work in the United States, and not currently employed in the aerospace sector. Applications are evaluated through submitted materials, including a resume, transcript, two letters of recommendation, and three essays—one written and two multimedia. These components allow the Fellowship Selection Committee and host employers to assess candidates' academic potential, professional aspirations, character, and creativity. Fellowship recipients are matched with host institutions in aerospace based on extensive candidate and employer data, rather than applying to specific companies. Matching decisions are informed by applicants’ preferences regarding team size, work environment, internship priorities, and career goals. Selected Fellows are placed in meaningful internships where they engage in real aerospace work, gain mentorship, and build professional networks. Applicants are guided through the process via several resources, including alumni-created guides on resumes, essay writing, and host company selection. Required documents include a one-page resume, a school transcript (unofficial accepted), two letters of recommendation covering professional aptitude and personal character, and three creative submissions. One of these is a written essay about the applicant’s contribution to aerospace, the second a creative multimedia piece addressing personal identity, and the third can be either format and is selected from a list of prompts focusing on industry perspectives and innovation. The application for the Class of 2026 closed on October 17, 2025, with letters of recommendation due by October 12, 2025. The next application cycle is expected to open in August or September 2026. This recurring opportunity has a consistent structure, and past application materials are made available to help new applicants prepare in advance. While no specific award amount is listed, the Fellowship includes a paid internship, a living wage, and a cash grant. No cost share is required. Applications are submitted through the SurveyMonkey Apply platform.

Focus on crafting strong essays and multimedia pieces. Follow all file-naming instructions. Alumni resources can offer valuable tips.