Duane Kaasa Makers Scholarship

The Duane Kaasa Makers Scholarship honors the memory of Duane Kaasa, a builder of machines and tools who was passionate about the trades. Duane built numerous projects including award-winning model airplanes, an RV-6 airplane, and a fully functional 1/8 scale replica of the Big Boy steam locomotive. He funded this scholarship with proceeds from selling his greatest creation. The scholarship reflects Duane's belief that knowing how to build things helps people support themselves and their families through economic ups and downs while bringing personal joy. As a proud US Marine, he particularly favored supporting veterans. This scholarship supports students pursuing fields of study in the 'makers' trades including welding, machining, auto mechanics, aviation, or train maintenance or engineering. Preference is given to veterans and students residing in or graduating from high schools in Chelan or Douglas counties in Washington state.