Fast Track to Employment

The College of Aviation has been putting Broncos in the sky for the past 75 years. As of April of last year, American Eagle, an affiliate of American Airlines, has been providing an opportunity for aviation majors to gain employment right after graduation. This is the first university program in the nation to partner with American Eagle, who, as of early 2014, has only sweetened the deal. 

Many graduating Broncos are eligible for a position with the airline, which includes an interview with their affiliate, American Airlines. This gives pilots an opportunity to attain the necessary flight hours before becoming full-fledged employees. Now the airline is offering much more. 

Qualifying WMU pilots will receive a $10,000 sign on bonus along with a two year commitment working for American Eagle. To qualify, candidates must graduate with a bachelor’s degree in an aviation major with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5, with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 for aviation courses. Graduates must also complete the instrument rating certificate, multi-engine rating certificate, and commercial certificate. 

Broncos who do not meet all of the requirements will not be left out in the cold. Graduates can opt to receive a $5,000 sign on bonus which also includes the two year commitment. 

American Eagle is the largest regional carrier for American Airlines with approximately 1,300 flights per day. Apart from the US, flight destinations include Canada, Mexico, and the Bahamas. The airline currently has approximately 2,700 pilots and over 14,000 other employees. 

To learn more about the College of Aviation, please visit wmich.edu/aviation

For more information or to apply, please click here.