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WI LL IAM CHARLTON JR: UNITED AIRLINES AND HBCUs
BY ASHLEIGH FIELDS
Although the salary is fulfilling, many find themselves without the resources and the means to pursue this career. In response to the increasing demand, United Airlines, the only major U.S. airline to own a pilot training academy, launched a partnership with three HBCUs: Hampton University, Elizabeth City State University, and Delaware State University. Their goal is to identify top talent and recruit students for admittance to their flight school. Charlton actively advocates for all of the nine HBCU aviation programs at Hampton University, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Florida Memorial University, Texas Southern University, Langston University, Elizabeth City State University, St. Philip’s College, and Southern University but proudly boasts that his alma mater Delaware State University has the best. “We have a premier aviation program; we are the only HBCU that owns our planes,” said Charlton. “We have 22 to be exact, 11 of which are straight off the assembly.” The program educates 130 students who receive guidance from a staff of 100 professional pilots. This unlimited access to seasoned specialists provides a stream of resources for students to utilize as
W illiam Charlton Jr., an experienced military and commercial pilot for United Airlines is actively working to bridge the Black achievement gap in the field of flying as a member of the aviation advisory board at Delaware State University. While flying has become a frequent means of travel for most, the statistical identity of those in the pilot seat remains stagnant. The lack of diversity among the average aircrew is startling. According to Data USA, 86.4% of aircraft pilots and flight engineers are white. However, commercial airlines are beginning to realize they must broaden their scope of candidates if they hope to sustain successful service amidst the growing pilot shortage. “Flying can be demanding, but it’s a rewarding profession,” said Charlton. “The average pilot earns anywhere from $160,000- 180,000 in a year.”
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