United Airlines Paves the Way for Army Reservists and Students to Soar as Maintenance Technicians

United Airlines Paves the Way for Army Reservists and Students to Soar as Maintenance Technicians

Chicago, IL – United Airlines has taken a significant step towards bolstering its workforce and preparing for a fleet expansion with the launch of the Calibrate Technician Pathway Program. This innovative initiative promises to provide U.S. Army reservists and students from top aviation maintenance schools with a streamlined route to becoming maintenance technicians at one of the world's leading airlines.

Bridging the Gap Between Military Service and Civilian Careers

United's partnership with the U.S. Army Reserve's Aviation Command Unit is a strategic move that not only supports the airline's growth but also offers reservists a chance to transition smoothly into civilian roles. The program is set to welcome up to 300 eligible students annually, offering them a chance to join the ranks of United's highly skilled maintenance teams.

Preparing for a Fleet of the Future

The Calibrate Technician Pathway Program is a direct response to United's ambitious United Next growth plan, which includes the acquisition of 800 new aircraft between 2023 and 2032. With over 3,200 technicians already recruited in the past 18 months, United is on a hiring spree to support its expanding fleet, aiming to employ thousands more by 2026.

A Commitment to Excellence in Aviation Maintenance

Simone Drakes, Managing Director of Calibrate at United Airlines, emphasizes the importance of this program: "Investments in new aircraft and facilities require that we also increase our pipeline of maintenance technicians. Partnering with esteemed institutions ensures we meet our United Next and maintenance technician hiring goals."

The Path to Becoming a United Technician

Candidates accepted into the program must maintain a high GPA and strong attendance record. United will facilitate interviews, open houses, and career fairs at each partner school. For Army reservists, the airline will offer career fairs and guidance on certification programs, supporting United's hiring goals for various technician roles.

United's Global Growth and the Technician Pathway Program

The Technician Pathway Program is part of United's broader United Next strategy, which includes the largest aircraft purchase by a U.S. airline in a decade and the largest widebody order in commercial aviation history. This growth translates into adding 50,000 new team members by 2026, with a significant focus on maintenance technicians.

Partner Institutions at the Forefront of Aviation Training

United has joined forces with the National Aviation Academy, Aviation Institute of Maintenance, and Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics. These institutions are renowned for their high-quality training and are instrumental in preparing students for successful careers in aviation maintenance.

United's Ongoing Investment in Its Workforce

The Calibrate Technician Pathway Program complements United's existing Calibrate Apprenticeship Program, further expanding the airline's commitment to developing a skilled workforce. With the inaugural class already underway, United is set to open the program to external applications in 2024, making aviation careers more accessible.

About United Airlines

United Airlines, now the world's largest airline by available seat miles, operates from hubs across the United States and boasts the most comprehensive global route network among North American carriers. For more information on joining the United team, visit www.united.com/careers.

United Airlines Holdings, Inc., the parent company of United Airlines, Inc., is publicly traded on the Nasdaq with the symbol "UAL". For more details on the Calibrate Technician Pathway Program and United's fleet expansion, visit United Airlines' official website.