Delta is bringing Hampton University aboard the Propel Collegiate Pilot Career Path Program, the airline’s first such partnership with a historically Black university. As the airline works to better reflect the diversity of the world it serves, this partnership helps broaden diversity and builds upon the significant legacy people of color have contributed to aviation.

Delta’s Propel program launched in 2018 to identify, select and develop the next generation of pilots. Students at Hampton are now eligible to join the program and receive a job offer to become a Delta pilot if they meet the airline’s rigorous standards.

“Adding Hampton University as a Delta Air Lines Propel partner evokes a myriad of thoughts and emotions,” said First Officer Monique Grayson, an interviewer for the Propel program. “Delta says connecting the world requires that we first respect the world through seeking diversity, promoting inclusion, creating equity and driving accountability towards these goals. Considering the history of HBCU’s and that of Delta, I am proud to see the company doing just that. I am grateful to the individuals who have worked behind the scenes to provide opportunities to a group that has been underrepresented in this field for far too long.”

This critical partnership aligns with Delta’s broader goals to reimagine its recruitment strategy, which includes strengthening partnerships with HBCUs. In an August 2020 memo, Delta CEO Ed Bastian committed to advancing racial justice and diversity within its business. Partnering with Hampton University aligns with our commitment to reimagine our talent strategy while maintaining the high standards of a Delta pilot.

Hampton University’s roots “reach deep into the history of this nation and the African-American experience,” according to the university’s website. The Department of Aviation in the School of Engineering & Technology was established in 1985 and is one of only 40 aviation programs accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI). In addition, Hampton is proud of its small class sizes and one-on-one instruction.

About Hampton University

The Department of Aviation in the School of Engineering and Technology provides students with preparation for a variety of careers in aviation. Combined with a strong liberal arts background, the aviation program prepares students to participate in building the future of the aviation industry. The department also prepares its students to be professionals by demonstrating the value of lifelong learning through research projects and the value of service to the university, aviation profession and community.

The Department of Aviation is committed to providing a high-quality aviation education for all its students with faculty actively involved in advancing the aviation community. Hampton strives to prepare students for meaningful aviation careers and to instill a strong sense of social awareness and responsibility to the public. The Department of Aviation has established itself as a high-quality bachelor’s degree program with a national reputation for outstanding graduates.

More information can be found on Hampton's website.

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