COPA and Elevate Aviation Launch Three-Year Partnership to Inspire and Advance Aviation in Canada

The Canadian Owners and Pilots Association (COPA) and Elevate Aviation have joined forces in a three-year partnership to open doors, break down barriers and grow Canada’s aviation community. Together, the two organizations will deliver programs that inspire future aviators, support current pilots, and strengthen the industry through mentorship, education, and community engagement.

Partnership Highlights:

• Empowering Youth Through the Elevate Aviation Cross-Country Tour – COPA will sponsor three cities in Elevate Aviation’s annual Cross Country Tour, which brings inspiring speakers and hands-on experiences to youth across Canada.
• Introducing the Rene Cutforth Memorial Scholarship – Funded by Elevate Aviation, this new COPA Scholarship honours the adventurous spirit and commitment of Rene Cutforth in championing women in aviation. Valued at $1,000, it will be awarded annually to a female COPA member pursuing an advanced rating, with the first applications opening in the 2026 COPA Scholarship cycle.
• Welcoming New Aviation Enthusiasts – Graduates of the Elevate Aviation Learning Centre (EALC), will receive a complimentary one-year digital COPA membership, connecting them with training resources, events, and networking opportunities to support their journey in aviation.
• Expanding Learning Resources – COPA and Elevate Aviation will collaborate to enrich the content of the COPA Aviation Academy, adding educational materials for current and aspiring pilots that foster skill development, and professional growth.
• Showcasing Canadian Aviation Together – The two organizations will partner at airshows, conferences, and industry events amplifying the voice of Canadian aviation and highlighting opportunities for people of all backgrounds to get involved.

“This partnership is about sparking dreams and turning them into reality,” said Marcia Kim, President and CEO of COPA.

“By joining forces with Elevate Aviation, we’re opening more doors for people to get into aviation, start flying, and help lead the way for the next generation of pilots.”

"At Elevate Aviation, we believe that everyone has a place in the industry”, says Nova Andrews, CEO Elevate Aviation.

“Partnering with COPA means we can inspire more people to see themselves in this industry, connect them with the right resources, and support them as they take flight in their own journeys.”

About Elevate Aviation

Elevate Aviation is a Canadian non-profit organization dedicated to creating equitable access for women and underrepresented groups in aviation. Through mentorship, training, outreach, and advocacy, Elevate Aviation inspires people to explore aviation careers, supports them in their personal and professional growth, and fosters an inclusive community that strengthens the industry.

Founded in 2015, Elevate Aviation offers programs including the Cross Country Tour, Mentorship, Elevate Aviation Learning Centre, and Workplace Culture Consulting, all designed to open doors and remove barriers to entering and thriving in aviation.