Department of Transportation (DOT) officials have appointed 20 Youth Access to American Jobs in Aviation Task Force (YIATF) members who will encourage high school students to pursue in-demand aviation careers.
“This task force will help identify and develop pathways to encourage a diversity of young people to enter the exciting aviation sector of the future,” Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao said.
The YIATF would provide the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) independent recommendations and strategies focused on facilitating and encouraging high school students to enroll in and complete career and technical education courses – including science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM); encouraging enrollment in the course of study related to an aviation career; and identifying and developing pathways for students to secure registered apprenticeships, workforce development programs or careers in the domestic aviation industry.
Sharon DeVivo, president of Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology, will serve as chair of the task force.
“We are at a pivotal moment in history to reach out and develop the next generation of aviation and aerospace leadership,” DeVivo said. “By bringing together a diverse group of industry and education leaders, we have a unique opportunity to create a set of recommendations that ensures a long-term pipeline of qualified talent while also prioritizing a pathway for traditionally underrepresented groups.”
The task force will be made up of individuals representing air carriers; aircraft, powerplant and avionics manufacturers; aircraft repair stations; local educational agencies or high schools; and institutions of higher education – including community colleges and aviation trade schools.
“We know that introducing students to the wonders of aerospace when they are in the early high school years can inspire them to pursue careers in the field,” FAA Administrator Steve Dickson, a former military and airline pilot, said.