Hobie Lippold, EAA Chapter 706's first Ray Scholar in 2021
Here's picture of Hobie (in the yellow vest) as a Young Eagle pilot at one of our chapter's Young Eagles Rallies, shortly after earning his private pilot license. Hobie was first introduced to flying as a Young Eagle himself, in Chapter 706.
After high school, Hobie went to Lift Academy in Indianapolis, a school which specializes in preparing pilots for the commercial airlines. Hobie has since gone on to earn ratings for Commercial, Instrument, Multi-engine, as well as Certified Flight Instructor and Multi-engine Instructor. In 2025, be began flying for Republic Airlines - a regional airline partnering with Delta, American and United!
Milo Spurlin, EAA Chapter 706's second Ray Scholar in 2023
Milo completed his first solo flight on October 2, 2023 and passed his private pilot checkride on July 3, 2024! Milo's career goal is to become a corporate pilot flying private jets.
Jack Wiedmeyer, EAA Chapter 706's third Ray Scholar in 2024
Jack was selected in April, 2024, shortly before his high school graduation. He worked hard to complete his pilot training in the summer before leaving for college at Purdue to study Aviation Management. He completed his first solo on June 14 and passed his private pilot checkride on August 4, 2024. Congratuations, Jack!
Bryson Drollinger, EAA Chapter 706's fourth Ray Scholar in 2025
Bryson was selected as our Ray Scholar in March of 2025. Here he is on the day of his first solo flight, August 3, 2025. Bryson is now attending the University of Dubuque, with an interest in becoming a commercial pilot.
