Two graduate students from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have received Vertical Flight Foundation scholarships for 2020. The awards, totaling $100,000, are given annually to “the world’s most talented engineering students interested in vertical flight.” According to the organization, only 29 students — worldwide — received this honor this year.

Richard Healy, a doctoral student in aerospace engineering, has received the Robert Head Scholarship, named in honor of the engineering pioneer.

Michael McKay, a doctoral student in aerospace engineering, has received the Jeff Pino Scholarship, named for the retired Master U.S. Army Aviator. McKay is a two-time recipient of a Vertical Flight Foundation Scholarship.

Both students will be recognized at the Vertical Flight Society’s Grand Award Banquet in October. They are advised by Farhan Gandhi, an endowed chaired professor of aerospace engineering and the director of the Center for Mobility with Vertical Lift (MOVE).