Embry-Riddle, Breaking Down Barriers Partner to Expand Education Opportunities

Texas nonprofit gains access to ERAU degrees.

Meg Godlewski

Monday, January 26, 2026 at 01:45 PM ET

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Edited By:

Zach Vasile

Flight training. [Credit: Daryl LaBello/Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University]

Key Takeaways:

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) has partnered with the nonprofit Breaking Down Barriers (BDB) to provide financially disadvantaged students with access to ERAU Worldwide aviation degree programs.
Breaking Down Barriers, established in 2024, helps aspiring pilots overcome financial and systemic hurdles by offering scholarships for flight training and facilitating enrollment in specific ERAU Bachelor's and Associate's degrees.
This collaboration provides flexible academic pathways, enabling students in BDB's pilot training program to earn degrees in pilot operations or aeronautics concurrently with their flight training.

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Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has launched a partnership with a nonprofit that will give financially disadvantaged students access to degrees offered by the ERAU Worldwide campus.

Students enrolled in the Dallas-based Breaking Down Barriers pilot training program will have a choice of a Bachelor of Science degree in pilot operations, an associate degree in science in aeronautics, and a Bachelor of Science degree in aeronautics.

According to the university, the programs provide flexible academic pathways that will allow the students to earn their degrees while simultaneously completing flight training.

Embry‑Riddle Worldwide chancellor John Watret said the collaboration is part of ERAU’s commitment to preparing the next generation of professional pilots and aviation leaders.

“By partnering with Breaking Down Barriers, we are broadening educational access and supporting students from diverse backgrounds as they pursue aviation careers,” Watret said.

Breaking Down Barriers (BDB) was established in 2024 by retired American Airlines chairman and CEO Doug Parker and his wife, Gwen. The Parkers created the organization to help qualified individuals overcome financial and systemic barriers that prevent people from becoming airline pilots.

BDB enables students to get scholarships to help pay for training, as the cost is often prohibitive.

The first year, BDB had a goal of providing 12 to 15 scholarships.

“Our mission has always been to help students overcome the challenges that stand between them and a career in commercial aviation,” Breaking Down Barriers CEO Dana Donati said in a statement. “Partnering with Embry‑Riddle—one of the world’s most respected aviation universities—empowers our students with exceptional academic resources and a clear path to professional success.”

Students enrolled in ERAU courses through BDB will be billed directly by Embry‑Riddle at standard tuition rates. The agreement also allows both institutions to collaborate with additional partners in aviation and education to increase accessibility.