Flying through the HR Perfect Storm?

In the past few years I’ve made several predictions about the direction of Higher Education, as far back as 2016, and again in 2018 and 2019.  The common thread through all articles is that the schools are not turning out viable candidates for business.  They have diminished their own brand through skyrocketing costs and high underemployment.  As far back as 2016 I made the following statement; “…do businesses begin to take over colleges to ensure they have a steady supply of talent developed to meet their business needs?  Who knows?”  Well, this week’s Wednesday Words is going to showcase how that very point is happening.

Being a father of three has provided me great insight into the current state of education in America.  Most recently I’ve written about my son and his path for college and a career.  Well, there’s been an update; he interested in becoming a commercial pilot.  Great news for the job market upon graduation as Boeing projects a global need of over 500k pilots by 2033.  Not so great news for my pocket book.  Or so it would seem.  Enter United Airlines and their new Aviate Program.

The looming pilot shortage is causing major concerns for carriers of all types; commercial passenger, corporate and cargo.  However, as I correctly stated back in 2016, business will find a way.  Now, to be fair to American, Delta and Soutwest, they too have programs in place.  I just happen to be loyal United flier and was made aware of this news shortly after it broke last week. 

I’m excited about this program for two reasons, one it’s an encouraging sign for professional development and two, it’s happening at a time where my son can benefit.  We’ve spoken with many pilots over the past few weeks and can understand why there is a shortage.  The financial burden to not only earn a private pilot’s license, but also build up flight hours is enormous.   In years past the military has provided a steady supply of seasoned pilots for the airlines, but that well appears to be running dry. 

As a learning professional, this new program really has me excited for the direction skills development is going.  The criteria to join the program and eventually become a pilot is extremely comprehensive and well documented.  Translation, students will know what to take and have guidance to chart the most direct path to completion and a job.  Something that continues to allude most universities as I can personally attest to the terrible state of academic advising I seen over two decades.  This helps keep costs in check as well as ensure students take only courses applicable to their goal.

Much like the military or apprenticeship programs, United is sweetening the pot for those accepted into their program.  There have been references to loan forgiveness or loan guarantees in some reports, however this has yet to be finalized.  Clearly this is one way to mitigate the high cost that has prevented many students from pursuing a career as a pilot.  However, the usual caveat will follow (which is ok) that students are presumably locked into a certain period of employment to ensure the return on investment. 

After meeting minimum eligibility requirements (2 semesters in college / 3.0 GPA / Pilot License) students can apply to join the United Aviate program.  If accepted they will receive a conditional job offer as well as travel privileges and some benefits.  Students will be mentored by other pilots and coached along the way.  Because United is focused on developing First Officers / Captains, they are emphasizing leadership skills and qualities as well. 

I absolutely love everything about this program and approach.  I honestly believe this is only the beginning of pulling the four year University programs out of their current (pardon the pun) nosedive.  My hope is that other industries will start to look at their talent pipeline needs and develop similar programs to complement skill development from a University, but tie it into the long term relationship with new talent.  As I’ve said on many occasions, business will find a way to solve a problem if it impacts the bottom line.  Thankfully, corporations are starting to wake up and provide new solutions to deal with the growing talent crisis.