The Gleda Estes Memorial Scholarship for Young Women in STEM honors her legacy by supporting the next generation of rocketeers and enthusiasts she deeply cared for.
Gleda Estes played a key role at Estes Industries, managing the largest division after the company’s move to Penrose in 1961. She oversaw the production and timely shipment of kits, catalogs, and other materials, ensuring smooth operations. By 1969, she managed over 100 employees.
Gleda was also a pioneering figure in model rocketry, becoming the first woman to compete nationally and internationally. She won trophies at her first national competition, beating seasoned Air Force competitors, and later became the first woman to win awards at an international event. She retired in 1972 after a distinguished 65-year career in the field.
Issuer: Private Non-profit
Awardee: A female NAR member (for at least 2 years) in good standing who is either a high school senior or college freshman intending to major in a STEM field.
Amount: $3,000
Deadline: June 1