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Outreach Programs Doing Their Part to Combat the Pilot Shortage

Minorities, women, and young people are of particular focus to many groups.

Michael Wildes
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The Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals says its Project Aerospace reaches more than 100,000 youth and young adults each year. [Courtesy: OBAP]
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Key Takeaways:

  • Numerous aviation industry stakeholders, including non-profits like OBAP and Women in Aviation International (WAI), along with major airlines, are actively implementing outreach programs and talent pipeline initiatives to address the pilot shortage.
  • These programs strategically target youth and underrepresented groups, such as Black Americans and women, offering scholarships, mentorship, and educational experiences to cultivate a diverse pool of aspiring aerospace professionals.
  • While these industry-wide efforts have led to some slow progress in increasing diversity among pilots, particularly for Black Americans, the representation of women in aviation continues to show minimal growth over decades due to persistent systemic challenges.
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Editor’s note: This article is the fourth in a six-part series examining the aviation industry’s pilot shortage and what can be done about it.

Jan. 14: An overview of the issue | Jan. 17: How the military is dealing with its shortage | Jan. 18: Recruiting right from the flight schools | Jan. 19: Outreach programs doing their part | Jan 20: The role of flight schools in creating pilots | Jan 21: Want to get your chops back? Here’s how. 

Michael Wildes

Michael Wildes holds a master’s degree in Logistics & Supply Chain Management, and a bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Science, both from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Previously, he worked at the university’s flight department as a Flight Check Airman, Assistant Training Manager, and Quality Assurance Mentor. He holds MEI, CFI & CFII ratings. Follow Michael on Twitter @Captainwildes.

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