RENE MATOS: THE MAN WITH A DREAM

The Rene Matos Memorial Scholarship was established in the name of a very motivated and dedicated man, who in every way epitomized the dream to succeed, while helping others along the way.

Even from his humble beginnings as an Air Traffic Controller in Puerto Rico, Rene displayed a talent and personality that could not be contained there. While he was in Puerto Rico, Matos never curbed his desire to advance in his career. Already gifted in what he did as a controller, Rene wanted to do more, not only for his own career, but for other Hispanics as well. He educated himself and eventually moved up in the ranks as a top manager at the William J. Hughes Technical Center in New Jersey. It was Rene’s drive, diligence and determination that earned him that position. At the Tech Center, Rene got placed on a special project with Arlene B. Feldman. Through the collaboration on this project, Ms. Feldman saw his professionalism and fervor. They soon became friends. Ms. Feldman commented, “Rene had the ability to win people over”. He had such a great personality that it was easy for him to become known within the Center.
Rene wasn’t just about advancing in his own career, but he often devoted extra time to the mentorship of others, so that they could be encouraged and step out also. He wanted to see Hispanics grow in their own careers in the FAA.

As a recruiter for the Tech Center, he often visited Hispanic Serving Institutions in search of possible applicants.

Rene Matos was the NHCFAE President from 1989-1992. In that time, Rene dedicated much of his time making a name for the coalition; he was very involved. Rene was also instrumental in establishing many chapters in different FAA facilities.

Rene was proud of his heritage and it was apparent in all his efforts in the coalition. Rene often brought his children to coalition functions. His family was as much part of the coalition as any of its members.

His sole purpose was to see other Hispanics succeed. What better to way to honor his dream than by establishing a scholarship under his name, aimed towards recognizing and rewarding Hispanic students who demonstrate superior academic performance, exhibit leadership skills and contribute to local community causes. Rene Matos Memorial Scholarship is a highly competitive scholarship that seeks to uphold the standard of excellence that was set by its namesake.