From pilots and flight attendants, to aviation maintenance technicians, airport customer service and reservation specialists, ramp and cargo agents, Delta Air Lines prides itself on the talented people that comprise its ranks, both on the ground and in the skies; but that workforce is set to significantly shift in the coming years due to an aging population and an industry that continues to rapidly expand.
Developing a specialized workforce to run and maintain one of the world's largest airlines requires a sprawling web of partnerships and programs and Delta is leading the industry when it comes to both. In fact, Delta’s workforce development programs have long been a part of the airline’s culture and story, focused on finding and training a new generation of aviation professionals.
Delta currently has 1,000+ program participants
Propel is an industry-leading program that helps Delta identify, select and develop the next generation of aviation professionals. Propel has three main areas of focus — college, company, and certified flight instructor. This equitable approach to talent development helps Delta support future aviators in the community as well as current Delta employees. Two of the three paths provide career opportunities to employees, giving employees enhanced career mobility opportunities.
Launched in 2018, Propel complements the traditional, existing pathways to becoming a Delta pilot, which include recruiting and hiring pilots currently flying in the airline industry, serving in the military or working in the corporate sector. Each Propel pilot path offers a streamlined career path with mentorship from Delta’s pilots every step of the way and a Qualified Job Offer with Delta Air Lines, and Delta’s wholly owned subsidiary Endeavor Air.
The new Propel Ground Support Equipment (GSE) Pathway Program is an opportunity for eligible employees to pursue career advancement in GSE as a Ground Maintenance Mechanic (GMM). Participants are eligible for funding options to be able to go to school to earn CMRT certification, all while maintaining employee seniority and benefits. Delta’s GSE team is responsible for maintaining Delta’s machinery on the ground at airports all over the world.
As part of Delta’s commitment to educate future aircraft maintenance technicians (AMTs), Delta created the Propel AMT Pathway for employees looking to grow their career in TechOps. AMTs are responsible for ensuring the safety and mechanical reliability of each flight on Delta every day and have a critical role in keeping millions of people safe each year. This pathway is in addition to TechOps’ TechU, a program for aspiring AMTs who are external candidates.