Our work with the Jeff Pino Foundation is a special mission, one that honors the legacy of aerospace pioneer Jeff Pino. A decorated Army aviator, celebrated president of Sikorsky Aircraft, and winner of the prestigious Collier Trophy, Jeff was passionate about mentoring the next generation of aviators. The foundation was established to continue that mission. This alignment between Jeff Pino’s vision and Rocket Drones’ commitment to youth education creates a powerful pathway for students dreaming of a future in flight.
Who Was Jeff Pino?
Jeffrey P. Pino was a true leader in the aerospace industry. His remarkable career began with 26 years of distinguished service in the U.S. Army, where he became a Master Army Aviator. After his military service, he transitioned to the private sector, eventually becoming the 18th President of Sikorsky Aircraft. Under his leadership, Sikorsky doubled its revenue and, for its work on the X2 high-speed helicopter, won the 2010 Robert J. Collier Trophy—aviation’s highest honor.
Beyond his incredible professional achievements, Jeff was known for his hands-on mentorship. He believed in connecting with people and inspiring them to achieve their best. His legacy is not just in the aircraft he helped build, but in the countless lives he touched and the next generation of leaders he inspired.
The Jeff Pino Foundation
Founded in 2016 to carry on his mission, the Jeff Pino Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity dedicated to supporting young people who aspire to careers in aviation, aerospace, and STEM. Operating with a GuideStar Gold rating for transparency, the foundation is guided by three pillars: Inspire, Educate, and Achieve. To date, it has awarded over $250,000 in scholarships and impacted more than 1,000 students, ensuring Jeff’s passion for mentorship continues to change lives.
Programs That Prepare Future Aviators
The Jeff Pino Foundation creates opportunities for students at every stage of their educational journey. The Aero Explorer program introduces Pre-K through 3rd-grade students to the wonders of flight with hands-on STEM missions. For older students, the foundation provides valuable scholarships for aviation maintenance, pilot training, and aerospace degrees. It also offers incredible industry exposure by sponsoring student trips to major events like Heli-Expo and Verticon.
Our drone career pathway complements these efforts perfectly. Rocket Drones’ curriculum extends this pipeline into middle and high school, providing students with the skills and training needed for FAA Part 107 certification. Together, we create a complete educational journey from early curiosity to professional credentialing.
A Shared Commitment to Aviation Careers
Both Rocket Drones and the Jeff Pino Foundation believe in the power of hands-on, experiential learning to ignite a passion for aviation. We are both dedicated to serving all students, including those in underserved communities, and providing them with clear pathways from classroom learning to career credentials. This alignment ensures that Jeff Pino’s mentorship philosophy lives on, empowering students to pursue and achieve their dreams in aviation STEM education.
This partnership honors a remarkable legacy by connecting students to the career-ready skills they need to succeed. Explore our [School Programs] and [Drone Racing Programs] to see how you can bring this mission to your students, or learn more about our [Part 107 Course] for certification pathways.