When you’re ready to start your career in aviation, you’ll likely consider base locations, pay and aircraft type to help you choose an airline. You might not be thinking about health benefits, work rules or long-term stability of the company, but we encourage you to consider your future when making this important decision.

“We are committed to making smart business decisions because our hard-working team members deserve a bright, stable future,” said Brad Sheehan, senior vice president – Operations at ExpressJet.  “Our team members on the front line have made us successful, and my job is to make sure that success is noticed, built upon and rewarded.”

ExpressJet is a top-performing airline backed by a strong parent company, SkyWest, Inc. We offer industry-leading work rules for our pilots, a great company culture and peace of mind knowing we’re here for the long term. We invest in our people by offering the quality of life they deserve and making business decisions that support our stability. Whether you’re planning to move up to the majors or make ExpressJet a long-term career, we provide a solid foundation for your future.

At a time in our industry where uncertainty and a constantly changing environment are challenges for all regional airlines, ExpressJet is making smart business decisions to ensure success in the present and in our future. We’ve extended contracts on aircraft, added new work rules that improve our already great quality of life, and built a solid infrastructure that will allow us to grow when the right opportunities arise.

We’ve been through tough times, learned from the challenges we faced and have come out stronger. ExpressJet is building a stable future for our current and future aviation professionals, and we hope you’ll join us.

ExpressJet team members have been jetsetting around the country this fall, but we’re not vacationing. We’re visiting aviation students on their campuses and giving them a chance to check out our CRJ200 and ERJ145 aircraft first-hand.

“Gone are the days of reaching students by phone or email. Visiting students at their school, in the classroom, lets us engage and inspire the future generation of aviators,” said Darrin Greubel, general manager of Flight Operations at ExpressJet. “We want students to know it is never to soon to begin investing in your career, and to remind them what they’re working toward.”

Since August, pilots, mechanics, dispatchers and flight attendants have traveled the country on collegiate plane tours to 12 Airline Pilot Pathway Program (AP3) partner universities. The plane tours are a reflection of ExpressJet’s ever-present core focus of educating, engaging and empowering future aviators across the country.

“At ExpressJet, we are bridging the gap between the regional airline community and the university campuses through AP3,” said Darrin. “We take pride in educating and mentoring the future generation of aviators and helping them grow in their careers, from the beginning.”

Through AP3, ExpressJet has established relationships with and attracted talent from some of the most prominent aviation institutions in the country. So far this year, we’ve taken a jet to 12 univerisities that are part of AP3. We hope to visit our other partner school in 2016.

• Auburn University
• Embry Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) – Daytona
• Florida Institute of Technology
• Indiana State University
• Lewis University
• Liberty University
• Louisiana Tech University
• Middle Tennessee State University
• Purdue University
• Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
• University of North Dakota
• Western Michigan University

Visitors traveled near and far to attend our Houston and Atlanta Open Houses this fall where they got to experience first-hand what it takes to be the world’s most respected regional airline. Nearly 400 future aviators attended the events.

Attendees got a behind-the-scenes look at the daily functions of ExpressJet’s flight operations, maintenance and Operation Support Center (OSC), and were given full access to recruiters, EPIC Ambassadors and some of ExpressJet’s chief pilots. Middle Georgia State University was also on site in Atlanta to speak with potential students about their aviation program.

A highlight shared amongst many of the visitors was their experience in the flight simulator. Attendees were able to pilot a takeoff and landing in the same equipment used by our pilots in training. The full-motion simulators mimick flight controls and movement in a CRJ200, CRJ700/900 and an ERJ145.

If you didn’t make it out this time, keep an eye out for future Open Houses in Atlanta and Houston – you won’t want to miss it!

Thirteen years ago, Atlanta-based flight attendant Karlene Johnson made the difficult choice to uproot her family and relocate to Atlanta. The move was hard on her family and became the inspiration for her newest endeavor, a children’s novel entitled Anthills and Racing Feet.

Johnson’s mission was to use her book to highlight the difficulties faced by adolescent children that are unexpectedly moved to a new environment, and it is fair to say, “Mission accomplished.” Her family’s very own move from Kingston, Jamaica to Atlanta inspired the story, with the main character being loosely based on her son who was ten years old at the time of the move.

Anthills and Racing Feet is the story of Junior, a 10-year-old boy who leaves his small, island village with his mother to live with her new husband in the big city of New York. In a search for his lost sense of belonging, he experiences many challenges, including feelings of isolation and bullying in school. This is a modern-day tale of a boy finding his inner strength just when he needs it most. Lessons of family, love and support, and the wisdom that can be gained from elders make the story just right for any child going through tough times.

“Immigrant children often face countless challenges when attempting to assimilate into a new culture and find their sense of belonging,” Johnson said. “It’s my hope that the book will spark conversations about the role of families and friends in the lives of children after they move, because those people will be key in helping to make learning about new cultures much easier.”

The title, Anthills and Racing Feet, has several symbolic meanings. In the book, Junior enjoys playing outdoors with his friends on the island village he once called home. They enjoy, among other things, to dig up anthills then watch the ants scatter in all directions. After the move, the ants become symbolic of Junior, who is trying to navigate his way through the obstacles of bullying and isolation that he experiences in his new home. Ants never quit, and Junior learns that neither should he. “Racing Feet” becomes a symbol of his courage and determination.

Johnson plans to share similar messages in additional books written for the Anthills series. She is currently in the process of writing the series’ second installment.

A signed copy of Karlene’s book can be purchased at www.anthillsandracingfeet.com. All signed copies come with a complimentary bookmark. Unsigned copies are available for purchase at Amazon, Barnes and Nobles online, and www.liferichpublishing.com.

Hi, my name is Jack Eastes and I am a first officer on the CRJ200 for ExpressJet Airlines. I graduated from the University of North Dakota (UND) in 2012, and worked as a CFI for the last two years. In the fall of 2012, shortly after graduation, I was hired at ExpressJet, based in Atlanta.

Three years into my career, I’ve learned that the academic lessons taught in college are not isolated from the life lessons you learn in the workplace. One of the most important lessons I learned in school is how to build relationships.

At UND, I was fortunate enough to work with great advisors, professors and flight instructors who stressed the importance of networking. I was very involved throughout college in various organizations, and I used these affiliations to help me build my network of peers and mentors.

The networking skills I learned at UND helped me at ExpressJet. As a new-hire pilot, it is important that you establish and nurture meaningful relationships with everyone you encounter – from the administrative staff to your fellow crewmembers. The airline industry is a close-knit world, and it’s important to learn from your coworkers every chance you can.

The company culture at ExpressJet is very welcoming and encourages a work environment where team members support one another. I know that when I fly, I can ask my captain questions, learn and contribute. If I’m unsure of a company policy, I can go to my chief pilot. Our flight attendants are always willing to help support us, and we’re there for them. Every person on the ExpressJet team is there for me, and for every team member, from answers to questions, to advice on the best benefits plan for me and quick responses to concerns.

I enjoy being a pilot and truly believe there is no career like it. The flight privileges offered through our company are one of my favorite incentives to take advantage of. The flexibility of my schedule allows me the opportunity to travel across the globe with my United and Delta benefits. I feel fortunate to experience different countries and cultures, and have been to Japan, Philippines, China, South Korea, Thailand, Cayman Islands, France, Germany, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Netherlands and Costa Rica – so far!

ExpressJet Airlines has been an exceptional landing point after UND, and I am reminded every day how I made the smart choice for my career.

First Officer Ryan Carty with instructor Ty Gardner who developed ExpressJet’s ATP CTP course

In November 2014, ExpressJet made history as the first part 121 passenger-carrying airline to receive FAA approval on an in-house Airline Transport Pilot Certification Training Program (ATP CTP). Just over a year later, we’ve had 123 new pilots complete our course.

“We recognize the financial burden of the ATP CTP course on young pilots,” said Brad Sheehan, senior vice president – Flight Operations at ExpressJet Airlines. “By providing this course in-house during our new hire training, we can offer not only the best training, but also ensure that top future pilots have access to that training.”

The ATP CTP became a requirement on Aug. 1, 2014 for new pilots wanting to attain their ATP certification, which qualifies them to fly commercial aircraft. The CTP, which must be taken before a new pilot can take the ATP written test, is usually completed independently by an aspiring pilot and can cost around $5,000. ExpressJet also reimburses successful candidates for the cost of the ATP written test.

“Being a corporate pilot doesn’t require an ATP CTP, so I didn’t even think about it,” said First Officer Ryan Carty – ATL who was our first ATP CTP student. “When I learned that ExpressJet offered the ATP CTP course for free, it was a big relief. I’m so glad I decided to begin my career here.”

Ryan successfully completed training and has been flying the line for almost a year (and he’s featured in our Smart Choice video!). He says the ATP CTP course prepared him well to be successful in new hire training.

“ExpressJet is consistently working to make our airline the best choice for aviators beginning their careers,” said Brad. “Being the first airline to achieve this certification speaks to the quality of our training and our commitment to fostering pilots – from students, through training, to careers at a regional and on to major airlines.”

If you’re ready to make the smart choice for your future, fly with the best at ExpressJet. Apply today at ExpressJet.com/apply.

Hello 2016!

As we begin a new year, we set new goals for ourselves at ExpressJet. This year, our primary goal in Pilot Recruiting is to strengthen our efforts to educate, engage and empower young aviators.

“For us, recruiting is about more than finding a candidate to fill a job opening,” said Courtney Dennis, manager – Pilot Recruitment & Hiring. “Our pilot recruiters are all ExpressJet pilots themselves and have a wealth of knowledge, enthusiasm and passion that we want to share with the future of our industry. Educate, engage, empower means that we take the time to talk to you about the industry, share relevant news and information, offer programs that help you grow in your career, and give you the tools and resources to begin your dream job.”

Our 2016 Goals:

Educate

At ExpressJet, we take pride in providing resources, information and mentorship to future pilots. In 2016 we’re adding new programs that provide you with information about your career. We have two new programs launching this month to give future aviators a leg-up on their career:

• Aviation Career Presentation Series: We’re teaming up with our major airline partners to visit your schools to present on a number of topics, beginning with Career Progression. Pilots from ExpressJet and Delta, United or JetBlue will share their stories, talk about how to achieve your career goals and answer your questions.
• Career Info Sessions: As we travel around the country for on-site interviews, we’ve added career info sessions for pilots not yet ready to begin their careers. In these info sessions, we’ll walk you through a mock interview, review your resume and answer questions about life as a pilot.

Engage

In 2016, we aim to grow our existing outreach programs to meet, support and mentor future aviators. It’ll be tough to top our student outreach in 2015, but we know we can do it! Here are a few 2015 outreach highlights:

• Nearly doubled involvement in the Airline Pilot Pathway Program (AP3)
• Visited campuses over 100 times (12 with our jet!)
• Relaunched our EPIC (ExpressJet Pilot Inspiring Careers) Ambassador mentorship program
• Strengthened our partnership with JetBlue through the University and Advanced Gateway Programs
• Hosted more than 2,000 future aviators at our Atlanta/Houston facilities at our Open Houses and school visits

Empower

We know that you have a lot of choices in where to begin your career, and we’re committed to helping you make the smart choice for YOU (even if it’s not ExpressJet!). To make this important decision, you need to know everything an airline has to offer. In 2016, we will make that information more readily available for you through a specialized website focused on pilot careers at ExpressJet.

What are your 2016 goals?

ExpressJet is committed to celebrating and recognizing our people, and fostering education and careers in aviation. As part of this commitment, ExpressJet supports groups who share the same goals, including the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP), Women in Aviation (WIA), the Latino Pilots Association (LPA) and the National Gay Pilots Association (NGPA).

NGPA has a long-standing history in the aviation community. Founded in 1990 as a social networking group for the LGBT [lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender] community in aviation, it’s now grown into an organization with thousands of members and focuses on advocacy work, community outreach and partnerships with colleges and aviation groups. The organization also has a 501(c)3 non-profit scholarship fund that has given more than $240,000 to aviation students who support or consider themselves part of the LGBT community. For the first time in 2016, they have several corporate scholarships and expect to increase giving.

“Our mission is to promote aviation careers, education and advocacy within the LGBT community and the greater aviation community,” said David Pettet, executive director NGPA. “If we can help one person feel comfortable in pursuing their dream, one pilot get hired, one airline get super pilots to work for them – we’ve done our job.”

Times have changed significantly since the first NGPA meetings where the small group of members went by first names only and met ‘off the radar’ to protect their careers. Today, many airlines, including ExpressJet, recruit at NGPA events, and look to NGPA for guidance on how to best support our people.

“The different backgrounds our people bring to their roles makes this company great. Working with NGPA helps us better support and celebrate our team members, and focus on future aviators through the organization’s dedication to education,” said Denise Harvill, vice president – People Resources.

The organization hosts two annual events, in September and January, which include educational classes, a career fair, and plenty of opportunities for networking. ExpressJet Pilot Recruiting sponsored the first annual 5k race at Cape Cod in September, and will be presenting at the Winter Warm-Up in Palm Springs, Calif., this week. 

“ExpressJet looks for the best and brightest pilots when we’re recruiting,” said Brad Sheehan, senior vice president – Flight Operations. “We’re proud to partner with organizations like NGPA, which focuses on education, safety and growth in aviation, to ensure we attract the highest quality pilots.”

“We’ve seen significant growth in NGPA over the last couple of years, and hope to continue that trend as our industry becomes more open and accepting,” said David. “It starts with airlines like ExpressJet who truly value equality.”

If you would like to join or learn more about NGPA, visit ngpa.org.

Our friends at Polk State College wrote this great article about our first seven AP3 students who received conditional job offers to join ExpressJet after finishing their training. You can read the original article here.

From left, ExpressJet First Officer Dano Pebler, ExpressJet Captain Joey Cook, Polk State Aerospace students Aaron Poidevin, Eric Martin, John Reichert, Nathan Calhoun, ExpressJet First Officer Peter Ryan, and First Officer Jack Eastes. A total of seven Polk State Aerospace students were extended conditional job offers during ExpressJet’s first hiring visit to the College last week.

Seven Polk State Aerospace students now know where they will land after graduation: in jobs with ExpressJet, one of the world’s largest regional airlines.

“It’s a relief. Two years ago, I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life. Now I’m about to have a degree, and I have a job waiting for me when I’m done. It’s an awesome feeling,” said John Reichert, a Lakeland resident pursuing his Associate in Science in Professional Pilot Science degree.

In fall 2015, Polk State College partnered with ExpressJet to become one of about 50 colleges and universities in the nation participating in ExpressJet’s Airline Pilot Pathway Program, or AP3 for short. AP3 extends numerous benefits to students, including preferential hiring benefits.

Last week, ExpressJet made its first hiring visit to Polk State. All seven students who applied to the airline received conditional job offers.

ExpressJet First Officer and Pilot Recruiter Peter Ryan said he could not have been more impressed with the way Polk State students performed during the interview process.

“To be quite honest, the word exceptional comes to mind. The students did a fantastic job and the staff was immediately asking for feedback, which shows they care about the quality of the students. That’s why we’re so happy to be partnering with Polk State,” Ryan said.

In all of 2015, 54 students nationwide were extended job offers through AP3.

“I couldn’t speak any more highly of Polk State’s program. We partner with schools 10 times the size of Polk State, and we don’t get seven interviews, let alone seven for seven being hired,” Ryan said.

Ryan added that Polk State students are particularly knowledgeable in safety issues.

The seven students must first accumulate 1,500 flight hours. Then they will enter ExpressJet’s new-hire training. Upon completion of that training, they will begin their careers as first officers, also known as co-pilots. Ryan said the natural progression is for co-pilots to become captains with ExpressJet, and for captains to move on to positions with major carriers.

“We’re seeing all the work we’ve been doing start to pay off,” said Aaron Poidevin, a Plant City resident who will graduate with hisBachelor of Science in Aerospace Sciences this fall. “It’s a great feeling. It gives you a goal to work toward.”

In addition to Reichert and Poidevin, students receiving conditional job offers include:

• Nathan Calhoun of Lake Wales
• Dillon Kraushaar of Lakeland
• Eric Martin of Valrico
• Matthew Pickett of Winter Haven
• Tyler Rahman of Lakeland

Polk State Aerospace Program Director Eric Crump expressed his pride in seeing each of the first student-applicants be hired by ExpressJet.

“We thoughtfully entered into a partnership with ExpressJet last semester because we were really impressed with their company, their people, and their culture. Our students wanted to be a part of that, and now seven of them are already on their way,” he said.

“We work hard to build aerospace professionals. We offer relevant classroom and flight instruction based on industry input from innovative companies, including ExpressJet. It thrills me to see that training validated with jobs for our students, especially when it’s 100 percent of our students who apply.”

Polk State Aerospace offers the Associate of Science in Professional Pilot Science, the Associate of Science in Aerospace Administration, and the Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Sciences, which has concentrations in both Pilot Science and Administration.

Polk State AP3 students show off their CJOs!

ExpressJet’s Airline Pilot Pathway Program, more commonly known as AP3, provides a clear path for students from our partner schools to the right seat at ExpressJet. More than 600 students are now part of AP3, so we wanted to take a minute to share answers to a few common questions about the program:

What is AP3?
The Airline Pilot Pathway Program, AP3, is a partnership between ExpressJet, select flight schools and universities, and students in the program. At its core, AP3 is a mentorship-based educational program that gives students a highly structured path through school, building hours as a CFI, to a career at ExpressJet.

What are the benefits?
In addition to an early interview that leads to a conditional job offer (CJO) and guaranteed job after program completion, students are assigned a mentor, an ExpressJet EPIC Ambassador who is a current pilot that can help answer questions, offer advice and be a resource for the student.

If I join AP3, do I have to go to ExpressJet?
Nope. We offer desirable bases, industry-leading training and great work rules, but sometimes ExpressJet isn’t the right fit. We understand that, and we’re here to help you make the best decision for YOU, even if it’s not us.

What does the AP3 path look like?
Each school’s agreement is slightly different, but in general here’s the path you can expect:

1. Join AP3 (any time from freshman year to CFI)
2. Complete AP3 testing after earning your instrument rating (our new hire pilot interview) and receive a conditional job offer (CJO)
3. Maintain good grades and a clean record
4. Gain experience as a CFI to meet your ATP or R-ATP required hours (remember, you’ll gain 40+ hours in training, so it can actually be a bit less)
5. Work with your EPIC mentor to help make the smart choice for YOUR future
6. Complete an application at expressjet.com/apply when you’re within six months of reaching your ATP or R-ATP minimums
7. Select a date to start your ATP CTP class, paid for by ExpressJet, then start new hire training at ExpressJet (all training is paid)
8. Fly passengers as an ExpressJet first officer!

What is a CJO?
A CJO, or conditional job offer, means you’ve passed the AP3 version of our new hire interview (congrats!). As long as you complete all the other requirements of the program, like keeping your nose clean, keeping your grades up, earning your hours and gaining experience as a CFI, you’re guaranteed a job at ExpressJet when you’re ready to start. And you don’t even have to complete another interview.

What is an EPIC Ambassador/Mentor?
EPIC (ExpressJet Pilots Inspiring Careers) Ambassadors are current ExpressJet pilots who volunteer their time to mentor AP3 students. Each student is assigned a mentor when they join AP3. Your mentor will reach out to you periodically, and we encourage you to use them as a resource. They’re there to answer questions, offer advice and be a contact for you in the industry. Remember, they’ve all been in your shoes – usually at your school!

What schools participate?
We partner with more than 50 top universities and flight schools. You can find the full list at expressjet.com/ap3.

What’s the catch?
There is no catch! Our motto in recruiting is “educate, engage, empower” and AP3 helps us fulfill those goals. It costs nothing to sign up, you’re not required to come to ExpressJet, and you get a leg up on your career.

How do I sign up?
If you’re in the aviation program at a partner university, click here to register to become part of the AP3 program.

Feel free to email me, Peter Ryan, at peter.ryan@expressjet.com, or Captain Joey Cook, joey.cook@expressjet.com, with any questions about AP3.

Our New Year’s Resolution was to educate, engage and empower future pilots, and we’re sticking to it!  As we grow our existing outreach programs to meet qualified candidates across the country, we’re adding an innovative approach to determine what aviators value in their job search: the Smart 16 bracket.

ExpressJet is hosting our own version of the March Madness Tournament as a fun way for you to share what is most important to you when determining where to begin your aviation career. We’ve come up with 16 of the best reasons ExpressJet is a great place to start your career, and we want to know which reason matters most to YOU!

Two ways to play:

• Online: Visit tinyurl.com/smart16 and “vote” on each matchup to choose which company advantage is most important to you.
• In Person: You can download the bracket at flysmartchoice.com, then snap a photo of your completed bracket (or scan the document) and email it to pilotrecruiting@expressjet.com with March Madness as the subject line. Please include your full name.

Rules: Anyone is welcome to enter, but you must be 18 to win. Current ExpressJet employees are encouraged to play, but are not eligible to receive prize packages. Two grand prize winners will be selected randomly from all completed entries.

Tournament Timeline: The Smart 16 campaign will run from Feb. 2-March 30, and brackets can be completed at any time during the campaign to be entered to win.

We will host a series of eight “games” on Tuesdays and Thursdays in March. The topic with the most votes at the time of its matchup will be named the “winner.” The tournament schedule is below:

ExpressJet’s pilot recruiting team will use the results to share more information relevant to the topics players are most interested in. Share your vote on your personal social media accounts to encourage your family and friends to participate. Good luck!

One of our guiding principles, ExpressJet is continuously working to improve our company. We strive to beat our last performance metric, to provide the best service, to be the best place to work. The desire to “win” for us isn’t for the industry accolades, but to reaffirm to our team members that their hard work is noticed and valued.

We were a great regional airline before, and today we are even better.

On Feb. 17, ExpressJet pilots voted in extensions to our existing contracts that provide an unmatched total compensation package while retaining the superior work rules that define who we are as an organization. Here are some of the highlights of the new extensions:

• First year pay rates at $37 (CRJ200/ERJ) and $40 (CRJ700/900)
• Per diem increased to $1.85 on date of signing and $1.90 on date of signing + 18 months
• $1.50/hr increase for all pay rates
• Profit sharing program that guarantees a minimum payout of $1,000 for 2016 and $1,500 for 2017

Additionally, the contract extensions add improvements to our already industry-leading work rules. The new work rules add to schedule flexibility, offer improved compensation practices and clarify contract language. More information on ExpressJet’s contract extensions can be found at flysmartchoice.com.

Flying with the best just got better.

On Feb. 17, ExpressJet pilots voted in contract extensions that raise first year pay to $37-40/hr. Today, we’re excited to share details of our agreement with United for a Career Pathway Program that facilitates ExpressJet’s ability to offer its United Express pilots a path to United Airlines. Compensation and career progression just got better at ExpressJet.

What is the Career Pathway Program?
ExpressJet’s agreement with United for the Career Pathway Program offers a path to United for qualified ERJ pilots, subject to the full terms and limitations of the Career Pathway Program. This program offers a new hire pilot position at United, pending successful completion of an interview at United and fulfilling all established criteria and program requirements.

Is this a flow?
No. For so long as ExpressJet supports United’s operations, United has committed to hiring up to 1 in 4 new hire pilots each year from program participants at ExpressJet based upon those pilots’ meeting or exceeding the established program requirements.

Who is eligible?
All ExpressJet pilots who support, or are qualified to support, our United Express operation, are eligible. Currently, all United Express operations are supported by our ERJ fleet so ExpressJet ERJ pilots are eligible. This program complements our already-strong hiring relationship with United, and we expect to continue to see CRJ pilots hired by United into the future outside of the Career Pathway Program.

How are candidates selected to move to United?
Movement to and employment by United will be in seniority order of those who apply and are eligible for the program, and who remain in the program in good standing with all program requirements for an established period of time. We’re still finalizing details, but expect to have an open enrollment period for existing ERJ pilots.

Why do we have to complete an interview?
Both ExpressJet and United expect pilots to continually develop in their careers, and we believe that knowing you’ll interview for a position encourages self-improvement while still giving our pilots the best career progression opportunities.

Does this impact the JetBlue University and Advanced Gateway Programs?
While ExpressJet pilots will have to choose which program to pursue, the JetBlue Gateways are still available to all eligible team members.

Look for additional details in the coming weeks, and learn more about ExpressJet’s Career Development opportunities at flysmartchoice.com/career.

The cost of flight training is a concern for many aspiring pilots. The career is absolutely worth it, but the upfront cost can be a difficult hurdle. There are many options available to help you pay for flight training including scholarships, loans made specifically for pilots, financial aid and military benefits.

SCHOLARSHIPS

Many current ExpressJet pilots have used the aid of scholarships and grants to offset both their tuition and flight training costs. Applying for scholarships can be daunting, but persistence pays off. While you might not find a scholarship that covers your full expenses, every little bit helps your overall bill.

Start with your school
Look at your university first, as they often offer scholarships specifically for their students. Your school already has your FASFA results and transcripts, which makes applying easier. Many universities award students scholarships based on financial need and/or merit. Depending on the program you are enrolled in, your tuition and flight training are often two separate financial accounts. In this case your school might have general education scholarships and/or aviation specific scholarships. We compiled a list of some school-specific aviation scholarships here.

Aviation scholarships
There are hundreds of aviation scholarships available to aviators across the world. Some are based on what type of pilot you want to become, for example the National Agricultural Aviation Association generously provides several scholarships for agricultural pilots, some support diversity in our industry, and some are based on financial need. We put together this spreadsheet of aviation industry scholarships.

Educational scholarships
Millions of dollars are given each year in scholarships from funds across the country to help students fund their education. Educational scholarship parameters have the reputation of being more inclusive of everyone including first-generation college students, underrepresented minorities, low-income family history, military experience and professional organization affiliations. Scholarships.com can help you find scholarships that work for you.

AVIATION LOANS

While traditional scholarships and financial aid are great, flight training is unique. Several companies have developed loan programs designed to support flight training costs. These are tailored to our industry, only available to future pilots, and a great option to get the kind of repayment plan that will best benefit you. Pilotfinance.com is one of the organizations that specializes in pilot loans.

FINANCIAL AID

All students attending a four-year college or university should complete the FAFSA and apply for financial aid. From the Federal Pell Grant, to subsidized and unsubsidized federal loans and personal loans, there are a lot of ways to finance your education. Collegescholarship.org outlines many of these options specific to aviation.

MILITARY BENEFITS

Future aviators who have served in our Armed Forces can use GI-Bill benefits to pay for flight training, and many schools specialize in supporting VA loans. If your parents served in the military, some unused post-911 GI-Bill benefits are transferable to children and can help pay for flight training. You can also complete your flight training in the military. Aviationschoolsonline.com offers guidance on using military benefits, as well as some additional ideas on how to pay for flight training.

Focus on your future
Stay encouraged – it is possible to achieve your dreams!  If you are a student pilot looking for some additional career guidance and interested in being mentored by ExpressJet’s pilots then consider enrolling in our Airline Pilot Pathway Program (AP3), which offers students at partner schools a guaranteed job at ExpressJet after completing program requirements. It might help convince your parents to keep the payments coming if they know you have a guaranteed job! Additional information on the program can be found at expressjet.com/ap3.

And remember, joining the ExpressJet team gives you the best total compensation over your entire career, which is the best way to pay back your loans. When you are six months from earning your hours complete an application at expressjet.com/apply to set up an interview with ExpressJet for a first officer position.

People rarely get the opportunity to mesh their love for their heritage with a passion for their career, but when the opportunity does arise the results are often very rewarding. Houston-based First Officer Michael Cerrato-Yeomans and four other airline pilots recently took it into their hands to do just that. They came together to provide a platform for Latino pilots to celebrate their culture while nurturing their careers – launching the Latino Pilot Association (LPA).

Hispanic and Latino pilots currently account for 5 percent of airline transportation pilots, more than any other minority group, but those types of numbers can still lead to a lack of unity in the workplace. LPA was organized in an effort to address the workplace issues that directly affect minority groups like Hispanics and to help enhance networks where they can further develop individual careers within the aviation industry.

“As a pilot of Latin descent I have personally seen the disparities within the airline industry when it comes to welcoming those of other cultures,” said Michael Cerrato-Yeomans, Houston pilot recruiter.  “Discrimination within the workplace can definitely lead to lower morale and discourage people from actually becoming interested in pursuing a career in aviation.”

Not only is Michael the co-founder of LPA, but he is also a member of ExpressJet’s Houston Recruiting Team where he spends business hours supporting the company’s hiring efforts. However, Michael spends much of his free time working with the LPA team to ensure they are uniting and mentoring association members.

“I, along with my four LPA co-founders, wanted to be able to show other minorities that they are welcome in the airline industry and that they will be taken in to a close-knit group that understands their struggles,” he continued. “I am happy to know that I work for a company that values diversity and encourages others like me to proudly embrace who they are in the workplace.”

Michael’s passion for LPA is contagious and has definitely spread to other members of the Houston recruitment team, as many of them now actively support and forward the mission of the organization even though they are not official members.

Participation in the Latino Pilot Association provides members with several rewarding benefits, including:

Professional Development & Mentorship: Members have the opportunity to volunteer and mentor other LPA members. A program entitled REACH is currently being developed to help educate, guide and further mentor many of the LPA members who are high school and college students.

Education Resources: Members receive educational resources that help acclimate them to the aviation industry and provide steps for achieving fruitful careers.

Career Growth: LPA members are encouraged to network with other members in effort to forge long-term personal and professional relationships, which may lead to future career growth opportunities.

Cerrato-Yeomans and his colleagues followed their passion by starting LPA, and they encourage others to start or join their own organization that addresses their unique heritage or beliefs.  “Determine why you want to start your association, what benefits you can provide to members and how you can help others through the organization you are trying to start,” said Michael.

“Believe in yourself, your cause, and your core values. When you truly believe in what your association stands for, others who believe will follow and everything will fall into place,” he explained. “With that being said, your hard work will be needed to start the association. Just like a for profit organization, you will need to have many teams – Legal, Marketing, IT, Recruitment, Outreach, among others – and finding those who can help you will be the key to your success.”

The Latino Pilots Association is open to anyone with an interest in aviation.  The organization believes that everyone has the ability to give back and they welcome all pilots who want to be a part of forwarding that goal. For more information you can email him at michael.cerrato-yeomans@latinopilot.org or visit www.latinopilot.org.

Our leaders, pilots, recruiters and team members have been working exceptionally hard in 2016 to make ExpressJet an even better place to build your career. We’re only two months into the New Year and we’ve had so many good news announcements already that we want to make sure everyone is in-the-know on the latest happenings at ExpressJet.

Here’s an overview of everything going on:

ExpressJet Pilots Ratify Contract Extensions

• First year pay rates at $37 (CRJ200/ERJ) and $40 (CRJ700/900)
• Per diem increased to $1.85 on date of signing and $1.90 on date of signing + 18 months
• $1.50/hr. increase for all pay rates
• Profit sharing program that guarantees a minimum payout of $1,000 for 2016 and $1,500 for 2017 for eligible pilots

Path to United

• ExpressJet signed an agreement with United to offer our United Express pilots a path to United Airlines
• United has committed to hiring a dedicated percentage of their new pilots from the Career Pathway Program at ExpressJet
• All ExpressJet pilots will also have the opportunity to apply through the normal channels and we expect our strong hiring relationship with United to continue into the future

Flysmartchoice.com Launch

• Visit flysmartchoice.com to learn more about the ExpressJet story
• Site highlights ExpressJet’s training, safety, quality of life, stability, family, career and new total compensation package
• Regularly updated with blog posts, recruiting events and company news

Smart 16

• ExpressJet wants to know what our pilot applicants value most in an airline
• Visit tinyurl.com/smart16 and “vote” on each matchup to choose which company advantage is most important to you
• ExpressJet’s pilot recruiting team will use the results to share more information relevant to the topics players are most interested in
• Grand prizes include a GoPro and $100 Ray-Ban gift card (winners selected randomly from all submissions)

Aviation Career Development Presentation Series

• ExpressJet is partnering with Delta, United and JetBlue to visit partner schools and present on a number of topics, beginning with Career Progression
• Presentations have been held at Jacksonville University, the University of North Dakota and Middle Tennessee State University thus far – look for an event coming to your campus soon

Career Info Sessions

• We’re traveling the country to offer you an interview preparation session, or if you’re ready to start your career, an on-site interview
• Sessions include a mock interview, resume review and one-on-one Q&A with ExpressJet pilot recruiter
• Check tinyurl.com/expressjet or our events calendar for the next visit to your city

Pilot Recruiting Events

• Pilot recruiters have been traveling across the country to more than 30 recruiting events in the last two months
• More than 700 students are now members of the Airline Pilot Pathway Program (AP3)
• ExpressJet’s Pilot Recruiting Facebook page, expressjet.com/careers and flysmartchoice.com have the latest information on upcoming events

ExpressJet is committed to exceeding all expectations for 2016, and redefining the regional airline industry. We take pride in raising the bar for our company and setting the industry standard.

If you’re ready to start your career, apply today at expressjet.com/apply.

Come explore one of the best regional airlines in the industry at ExpressJet’s Spring Open Houses, and invest in your future career. ExpressJet Airlines is pleased to announce our annual Open House events at both our Atlanta and Houston locations on Apr. 30, 2016.  Both Open House events will be held 8 a.m.–5:30 p.m. ET/CT, and we encourage you to reserve time slots for the various events at tinyurl.com/xjt2016.

Our Open House events aim to help you make the smart choice for your future by providing you an inside look at what it’s like to start your career at ExpressJet. During this event you will have the opportunity to:

• Go on a guided behind-the-scenes tour giving you a look at our flight operations, maintenance facilities and Operation Support Center (OSC)
• Talk with pilot recruiters
• Listen to former ExpressJet pilots who have transitioned to the majors about how ExpressJet prepared them for the next step in their career
• Learn about financial aid opportunities available to finance your flight training
• Attend workshops to help you plan for your pilot career (schedule will be published here soon!)
• Interact with local flight schools
• Experience flight with a free session in our flight simulators

The Houston Open House event will take place at 17785 JFK Blvd., Houston, TX 77032. The Atlanta Open House will take place at 990 Toffie Terrace, Atlanta, GA 30354. Attendees of the Atlanta session are also offered free admittance into the Delta Airlines Flight Museum located down the street from ExpressJet’s hangar.

We encourage future pilots, students and their parents, and aviation enthusiasts to attend. Registration isn’t necessary to attend, but will ensure your desired time slot for the tour, workshops, pilot meet and greet or interview. If you are interested in signing up for a simulator sessions you must register as slots will fill up fast! Only one slot per attendee is allowed. Register for all events at tinyurl.com/xjt2016.

ExpressJet looks forward to meeting you!

In early 2014, when I was still living in St. George, Utah and before I moved to Atlanta, my two United “Friends” and I wanted to travel to Dubai. One friend was living in New York and the other in Salt Lake City, so we all non-rev’ed to Washington Dulles International Airport where we met up and left for Dubai. There were nearly 100 seats in the back, so we all opted out of flying first class since we would each have our own row in Economy – three aisles to ourselves. That helped to make our 13 hour trip much easier, since we could sprawl out and sleep on the flight that left Dulles around 7 pm.

We arrived in Dubai mid-afternoon. Since we figured that everything in the city would be kind of expensive, my friends and I skipped a taxi or shuttle ride to our Marriott hotel. There was public transportation near our hotel and we could see it on the map, so we decided to take that and walk instead. I had downloaded a map from Google of the area we were traveling that could be used offline — it’s a great resource as long as your phone picks up GPS. The feature shows you where you are without using network or data.

Since we all traveled pretty light, with a backpack and a duffle bag, we walked quite a ways from the bus stop to our hotel. Looking back, we probably should have gotten a taxi because they are one of the more affordable ways to travel in the city. But don’t get me wrong, since we walked we were able to get some cool video shots and pictures of the skyline that we probably wouldn’t have gotten if we hadn’t taken that long crazy walk.

After getting settled in our hotel on that first day, we spent the rest of our afternoon at the lower level of the Burj Khalifa – the world’s tallest building – where we hung out in the massive shopping mall. We didn’t have a lot planned for the day and the hotel shuttled us there. There’s a huge aquarium inside, tons of places to eat, and plenty of shopping.

The next morning we hung out by the pool and cooled off before heading to a desert safari. We booked the fairly inexpensive tour through Orient Tours, and they picked us up around 2 pm for a whole day of activities. We rode in a SUV to huge sand dunes which we took a crazy ride on, making lots of cool bowl turns in the sand. It was pretty fun. Then we hopped out of the SUV and went “snowboarding” on the sand dunes, then petted and rode camels, before heading to an exciting dinner. There we ate some local cuisine, and were able to pet a hawk and see some other cool animals. There was also a dance show where men and women put on a performance for us before we headed back to the hotel.

The next day we rented a car for pretty cheap and then drove ourselves to Abu Dhabi, about a two hour trip. There’s a really beautiful white mosque there, which is a giant pure white building that they let people tour. We ate and also went to the beach that day. We were also able to drive around the famous manmade islands in the shape of palm trees and paid to go to the top of the Burj Khalifa. I recommend if you want to do that, book in advance. The tickets are usually sold out if you walk up on the day of, so I recommend buying the tickets as soon as you arrive in the city. Otherwise you won’t get to go. It’s worth the money and time, plus you get to see really great views— looking down on skyscrapers and getting a birds-eye-view of the whole city.

If you like Middle Eastern food and want to go to a safe part of the region, Dubai is and awesome trip to plan. With nearly 200 trips under my belt in the 3 ½ years I have worked here, I’d like to think I have pretty good insight into traveling. I’m always open to giving advice and taking new trips with new friends.

We’re excited to announce our 2016 Airline Pilot Pathway Program (AP3) Summer Camp. The camp is an extension of our commitment of educating, engaging and empowering future aviators across the country. This enrichment camp offers attendees an opportunity to expand their horizons and embark on a new adventure that will challenge and enlighten them both personally and professionally.

What is the Airline Pilot Pathway Program?
The Airline Pilot Pathway Program, AP3, is a partnership between ExpressJet, select flight schools and universities, and students in the program. At its core, AP3 is a mentorship-based educational program that gives students a highly structured path through school, building hours as a CFI, to a career at ExpressJet.

What is AP3 Camp?
Tailored to senior level aviation students and/or certified flight instructors, AP3 Camp provides an opportunity for student pilots to explore, grow, develop new skills and form lasting relationships in a friendly, career-focused environment. This all-inclusive experience will be offered to 48 students each year, chosen by ExpressJet leaders based on individual applications.

Here are some of the activities you’ll experience in as part of AP3 Camp:

• Behind-the-scenes tour of ExpressJet’s facilities including our airport crew lounge, Flight Ops training center, maintenance hangar and Operation Support Center (OSC)
• Tour of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport or George Bush Intercontinental Airport
• Exclusive meeting with ExpressJet leadership
• Sessions in our flight simulators
• Pilot shadow experience
• Professional development opportunities
• Aviation think tank
• On-site interviews, dependent on individual candidates

When and where is the camp?
Two camps will be held each session – one in Atlanta and in Houston.

How much does the camp cost?
ExpressJet covers a majority of the cost associated with camp, excluding travel and personal spending money for the duration of the camp. Lodging, meals, and all activities are provided for free to selected attendees.

Who is eligible for the camp?
AP3 camp is open to senior level aviation students and/or certified flight instructors who are members of AP3 at our partner schools. Students must complete the AP3 Camp application to be considered. ExpressJet leadership will select 48 participants (16 for each session).

How do I apply?
The application window will be open Apr. 6-May 10. To apply, complete the online application at tinyurl.com/AP3camp16 and then submit your resume and a letter of reference to pilotrecruiting@expressjet.com. In the subject line write, “John Doe’s Additional Documents for AP3 Camp,” Applications without these supporting documents will be considered incomplete.

When will candidates be notified?
Selected candidates will be contacted on May 16 via the email address and/or phone number provided in the application.

Questions?
Contact pilotrecruiting@expressjet.com for any additional questions.

So you know you want to become a pilot, but now what? Fortunately, it is a student’s market when looking for a FAA-certified (approved) flight training program. The choices are endless with more than 100 schools throughout the country. Before selecting the right school for you, we encourage you to consider the following.

What kind of pilot job to you want?
Have you asked yourself what you want from your aviation career? Do you want to be a commercial airline pilot? Corporate/charter pilot? Medical ambulance pilot? Thoroughly research which aviation career you are interested in. You want to make sure you understand the requirements of your dream job now.

Do you want/need a degree, or should you start your career as soon as possible?
Pilots who want to fly commercially must be 21 and meet the FAA’s Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certification requirements, but outside of those two musts each airline – regional and major – have their own additional requirements. At ExpressJet, we look for pilots who are competent, knowledgeable and passionate – we don’t require a degree. Some people prefer to attend a flight training school where they focus solely on earning their certifications, ratings and hours, while others want the college experience or are seeking a degree in aviation or another field.

Also consider if you want a career at the major airlines one day – some require degrees while others don’t. If you do want to go the college/university route, you can major in aviation management or aviation science or a related degree, which may qualify you for the Restricted ATP (R-ATP) that allows you to start your career with less hours (1,000 or 1,250). However, the majors simply require “a degree” so sometimes it’s smart to choose an unrelated field that you’re interested in, like English or Information Science. There’s also the possibility of completing your degree later while you’re flying professionally – that’s one of the perks of the flexible schedule of pilot life!

Part 61 vs Part 141
You haven’t even step foot on the campus yet, but you keep hearing the terms Part 61 vs Part 141. What does that really mean for you, the student? The terms refer to the federal regulations under which the program has the authority to train pilots. The difference:

Part 61

Part 141

Cost
The cost of flight training is substantial regardless of whether you’re looking into Part 61 or 141 aviation programs. Making sure that you receive the highest quality education that best suits your career needs should be the primary focus. You can learn more about options for paying for flight training here: Paying for flight school.

Partner Programs
Many universities and flight schools have established partner relationships with regional and even major airlines. Attending a school that has this type of relationship can be the difference between you graduating with a conditional job offer (CJO) at a regional airline or job hunting on your own after completing your hours. Look at the regional airlines that your school is partnered with. ExpressJet has relationships with more than 50 schools across the country through our Airline Pilot Pathway Program (AP3). Then, see if that regional airline has any pathway programs with major carriers that you are interested in. Currently, ExpressJet has pathway programs with JetBlue and United.

Questions
Make sure that you ask questions to determine which school is best for YOU. Picking your flight training provider is not a decision to take lightly – you have every right to ask questions about the education you are receiving and you should.

All of this information can seem overwhelming, but it is important to research your decision early on when deciding where to complete your flight training. ExpressJet encourages you to continue to pursue your dreams as an aviator!