ExpressJet Airlines has teamed up with Louisiana Tech through a Pilot Pathway Agreement with the university’s department of professional aviation. The partnership will ensure aviation students a highly structured path from flight training to potential career opportunities with ExpressJet Airlines. “Over 150 professional aviation students will have the opportunity to participate,” said Jordan Lyons, head of the professional aviation department at Louisiana Tech. Students, their families and community members attended aircraft tours and the signing ceremony of the program agreement last Thursday. “The ExpressJet Airline Pilot Pathway Program will allow our aviation students to interview and be hired before graduation,” Lyons said. “After selection, students will build the flight time necessary to begin initial airline training while being mentored by a current pilot working with ExpressJet. This partnership will provide students with another possible career track to an airline cockpit. “The partnership is possible through our dedicated, goal-oriented aviation students. Additionally, our graduates have been recognized by many airlines, including ExpressJet, for their hard work and dedication to being true aviation professionals within the industry.” “The visit from ExpressJet Airlines will give our students, staff, faculty and local aviation enthusiasts an opportunity to learn about the exciting career opportunities within ExpressJet,” Lyons said. Louisiana Tech’s Department of Professional Aviation offers Bachelor of Science degrees in both Professional Aviation and Aviation Management. FAA certificates and ratings are available to Louisiana Tech students including the Private, Instrument, Commercial, Certified Flight Instructor, and Certified Instrument Flight Instructor. The department is a member of the University Aviation Association and is accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International. Written by Judith Roberts – jroberts@latech.edu