MGA School of Aviation works with Delta Air Lines to offer innovative career paths for pilots

Author: News Bureau
Posted: Tuesday, July 17, 2018 12:00 AM
Categories: Pressroom | School of Aviation

Eastman, GA

Middle Georgia State University is one of only eight universities in the nation that have been selected to participate in a new program that will put new pilots into sought-after jobs in the cockpits of Delta Air Lines jets.  The Delta Propel Pilot Career Path Program is designed “to identify and mentor the next generation of pilots,” according to a Delta press release. 

Students chosen to take part in the highly-selective Propel program will be provided a Qualified Job Offer, which will outline an accelerated path to a full-time career as a Delta pilot.  In addition to their Middle Georgia State flight training, Delta will provide these students with mentoring and upon completion of their degree program, the new pilots will embark on one of three paths into a job as a Delta pilot. 

“Delta is a leader in the global aviation industry, and a major driver of Georgia’s economy,” said Adon Clark, dean of Middle Georgia State University’s School of Aviation. “We’re incredibly excited to be working with Delta to help continue the growth of aviation in our state, while ensuring that our students have the opportunity to pursue their dream career with one of the world’s largest air carriers.” 

According to the airline, Delta intends to hire more than 8,000 new pilots in the next ten years. The Propel program was created by the airline in consultation with students, families, faculty, administrators, and Delta employees, with an eye to reducing the number of obstacles facing young pilots entering the industry for the first time. 

Students who wish to participate in the Propel program must apply and be screened by a panel of Delta employees.  Students will then navigate one of three career paths after graduation – flying with a Delta Connection regional carrier, flying Delta Private Jets and serving as a Certificated Flight Instructor at a Delta-partner collegiate institution, or flying military aircraft with the National Guard or Reserves.  Following their completion of the requirements in these positions, students will be transitioned into a position as a pilot with Delta Air Lines. 

Applications for the Propel program will be available in August 1 and must be completed before September 3.  Students with questions about the program can contact Adon Clark at adon.clark@mga.edu for additional details or the Delta Propel team at propel@delta.com.

 The University and Delta will host an event at Middle Georgia State’s aviation campus in Eastman, Georgia, at 10:00 am – noon on Thursday, August 16.  This event will allow students, families, and community members the opportunity to find out more about the Propel program.

 “This will be a remarkable opportunity for new pilots,” said Clark, “and one that we know Middle Georgia State’s aviation students are ready to step up and embrace.”

Applications must be submitted by September 3.