Our Programs

Comprehensive pathways from classroom to career in aerospace and aviation

ACE Academies

Hands-on aviation education experiences for middle and high school students, blending flight simulation, field trips, and leadership development.

  • Michigan CTE-approved Drone/UAS program (Grades 11–12)
  • Industry visits and mentorship opportunities
  • Dual credit pathways to college programs

Introduction to Aviation

A discovery course introducing students to careers across the aerospace ecosystem—from engineering and flight operations to maintenance, logistics, and space systems.

  • Explore multiple career paths in aerospace
  • Guest speakers from industry leaders
  • Hands-on activities and simulations

FAA Part 107 Drone Program

ACP Foundation offers an FAA Part 107 Certification Prep Program, recognized by Michigan's CTE Board, preparing students and adults (15+) for certification in the rapidly expanding UAS/drone sector.

  • Michigan CTE-approved curriculum
  • Tailored for students and adults 15+
  • Industry-recognized certification

Workforce Bridge Initiative

Through partnerships with Wayne State University, Washtenaw ISD, and Wayne County, ACP creates career pipelines connecting high school graduates to aerospace employers and postsecondary institutions.

  • Direct pathways to employment
  • Apprenticeship opportunities
  • College and university partnerships

ROTC Partnership Programs

ACP Foundation partners with Air Force ROTC and military flight academies to provide students with pathways to military aviation careers and leadership development.

  • Air Force ROTC scholarship opportunities
  • Aim High Flight Academy summer programs
  • Leadership and character development

Wheels-UP! Program

An innovative program connecting students with real-world aerospace experiences through industry site visits, mentorship, and hands-on projects that bring classroom learning to life.

  • Industry facility tours and experiences
  • Professional mentorship opportunities
  • Real-world project-based learning

A list of U.S. commercial airlines, aerospace manufacturers, and related organizations that offer career-development or training programs (for pilots, maintenance technicians, dispatchers, etc.) which the public (or external candidates) can apply to.

Career-development or Training programs

  • Delta Air Lines – Propel Pilot Career Path Program
    • This program gives aspiring pilots a defined path into Delta (or its regional affiliate) via one of four tailored tracks (Collegiate, Company, Scholarship, CFI). (Delta)
    • Key eligibility: Must hold at least a Private Pilot certificate (for the Collegiate path), have or be able to obtain a first‐class medical certificate, be legally eligible to work in the U.S. without sponsorship. (Delta)
    • Useful for individuals seeking to become airline pilots and who want a structured “flow-through” path.
  • United Airlines – Aviate Program / United Aviate Academy
    • United’s program for aspiring and existing pilots. The Aviate program offers a defined career path to become a First Officer with United. (United Aviate)
    • The United Aviate Academy offers flight-training for those starting from the beginning. (United Aviate)
    • Eligibility: U.S. work authorization, valid FAA medical, etc. (United Aviate)
    • Good for candidates who want to begin pilot training with airline affiliation.

Tips for Applying / Selecting the Right Program

  • fas fa-check Check eligibility early: Many programs require U.S. work authorization, valid medical certificates (for pilot), certain licenses or certifications (for maintenance/dispatcher). For example, United’s Aviate program requires a valid U.S. work right and FAA medical. (United Aviate)
  • fas fa-check Understand what you’re committing to: Some pathways may require time with regional carriers, or training in partner schools, or apprenticeships that include on-the-job work.
  • fas fa-check Look at the timeline & cost: Pilot training can be expensive unless sponsored. Some apprenticeship programs are paid or subsidized (e.g., Boeing, Airbus apprenticeships cover tuition in some cases).
  • fas fa-check Location matters: Many programs are tied to specific geographic locations (for example Airbus in Mobile, AL). Ensure you can relocate if required.
  • fas fa-check Maintenance vs Pilot vs Dispatcher: These career tracks differ greatly (skills required, education/training required, pay scale, schedule). Choose based on your interests and physical/medical suitability.
  • fas fa-check Stay aware of application windows: Many of these programs open applications only at certain times (e.g., apprenticeship cohorts) and fill up quickly.

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you're a student, parent, or educator, we have a program that's right for you. Join us in building the future of aerospace.
Aerospace Career Pathways Foundation – Bridging Dreams and Opportunity.

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121 Pearl Street, Suite A
Ypsilanti, MI 48197

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