The Founder's Story
A Mission to Open Doors
Christopher Jewell established the Lift Off Toledo Aerospace Scholarship as a bridge to opportunity. Drawing from his background as a military aircraft maintainer and engineering expert, he recognized the transformative power of a skilled trade. His journey from global flightlines back to his hometown inspired a commitment to guiding local youth toward high-level technical careers through discipline, mentorship, and hands-on mechanical excellence.
This initiative serves to illuminate pathways into the aerospace sector for students who haven't previously considered FAA A&P certification reachable. By leveraging professional flightline experience and deep community roots, the program empowers the next generation to master complex systems. It is more than a scholarship; it is a movement to elevate the city by turning technical curiosity into a lifelong, successful career.
“We’re trying to show kids from Toledo that aviation ain’t just something you watch fly over your head — you can be the one working on it, building it, and making a career out of it.”
— CHRISTOPHER JEWELL, Founder
Aviation Expertise
A&P
Toledo Pride