Delta Propel Opens Second HBCU Partnership for Pilot Diversity

Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) is joining Delta’s Propel Collegiate Pilot Career Path Program, following Hampton University as the second historically Black university to join the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) program. This partnership marks another important milestone as the airline continues to focus on recruiting diverse talent and creating equitable pathways for careers in the aviation industry.

Launched in 2018 as the first known pilot pathway program offered by a U.S. global carrier, 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 U.S. to offer students a defined, accelerated path to becoming a Delta pilot. Upon selection to the program, students receive a qualified job offer for a pilot position at Delta.

“Investing in ECSU and other collegiate programs 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.”

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 $1.5 million to 37 HBCUs through multiple UNCF grant programs and coordinates on-campus recruiting events for students to meet with Delta’s talent acquisition team through the airline’s “Delta Days” program.