(TAN): Elizabeth City State University in North Carolina is joining Delta’s Propel Collegiate Pilot Career Path Programme, following Hampton University, as the second historically Black university to join the programme, the airline said in a news release.
Launched in 2018, Propel is one of Delta’s workforce development initiatives created to identify, select and develop the next generation of pilots. With the addition of ECSU, Delta partners with 16 postsecondary institutions across the United States to offer students a defined, accelerated path to becoming a Delta pilot. Upon selection to the programme, students receive a qualified job offer for a pilot position at Delta.
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“Investing in ECSU and other collegiate programmes that create greater representation within the aviation industry is a key component of Delta’s workforce diversity strategy,” said Eric Hendrick, Delta’s director of pilot outreach. “And by creating these long-lasting relationships in the communities we serve, Delta also ensures the pipeline of top-notch pilots remains strong for years to come.”
ECSU’s comprehensive aviation programmes offer students a rigorous curriculum that aligns with the skills needed to become a Delta pilot.
“ECSU’s partnership with Delta Air Lines will provide a pipeline for Delta to recruit great talent to join their team; this is a win-win situation,” said ESCU Chancellor Karrie G. Dixon. “I affirm that we will do our part to ensure the success of this programme.”
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In addition to ECSU’s and Hampton University’s participation in Propel, Delta supports various initiatives at HBCUs across the country. Delta has committed over USD 1.5 million to 37 HBCUs through multiple UNCF grant programmes and coordinates on-campus recruiting events for students.
