NBAA Charities annually awards $2,500 to each of two applicants pursuing careers as maintenance technicians. One award will benefit a student who is currently enrolled in an accredited airframe and powerplant (A&P) program at an approved FAR Part 147 school. The second award will benefit an individual who is not currently enrolled but has been accepted for enrollment in an A&P program. The scholarship is named in honor of retired NBAA staff member William M. Fanning, who was active in maintenance issues during his nearly 20-year tenure at the Association.

Awards will be made to U.S. citizens without regard to sex, race, religion or national origin.