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California Aeronautical University (CAU) is proud to announce its new partnership with United Airlines, which will provide CAU graduates with the most direct path to the United flight deck via the Aviate program.
As an Aviate partner university, former and current CAU students and instructors can apply to Aviate and upon acceptance, receive a conditional job offer as a United First Officer. They'll also gain access to travel privileges to United destinations around the world and invaluable coaching opportunities from United pilots that can help create a seamless transition to the airline.
When CAU students are accepted into Aviate and meet all transition requirements, they can be eligible to start at United within four months of reaching the required flight-hour minimums.
"We're very excited to be partnering with one of the oldest and top major airlines in the country," says Matthew Johnston, President of California Aeronautical University. "CAU being selected as an Aviate partner university is testament to the caliber of our program and how well-prepared our students are for their pilot careers. We know our graduates will do a good job for them."
United created Aviate to ensure a steady supply of future pilots for the long-term success of their airline. The airline intends to hire more than 10,000 pilots this decade.
"We are proud to welcome CAU to the United Aviate program, benefiting current and future CAU students in their journeys to becoming professional pilots," says Captain Mike Bonner, Managing Director of Aviate and Pilot Strategy. "CAU's national reputation for a high-quality aviation education aligns with our pilot recruitment strategy."
Many airlines have established their own pilot funnels and have been offering unprecedented benefits to hire qualified candidates in a streamlined process.
Strong and growing relationships between the University and important airline partners like United Airlines are critical to the success of CAU graduates entering the field and to the overall health of the commercial aviation industry.
CAU currently partners with several regional airlines around the country. United will be the University's second major airline partner.
CAU and United celebrated the partnership at a launch event at the University's Bakersfield campus on Wednesday, October 11, 2023. During the event, United representatives shared details of Aviate with students and offered networking opportunities during a lunch mixer.
About California Aeronautical University
California Aeronautical University (CAU) is preparing the next generation of aviation professionals. Serving students from all over the country, the University offers career-focused programs in aviation, aviation business, and aircraft maintenance. With on-airport locations throughout California and in Arizona that provide an ideal learning environment, CAU courses are delivered in a year-round, fast-paced schedule that enables students to enter the pipeline for aviation careers in the shortest amount of time. Through the University's strong partnerships with airlines, influential aviation organizations, and leaders in the aviation community, CAU graduates become a part of a larger aviation network and reap the benefits of these relationships, including direct access to several airline cadet programs. The University offers access to federal student financial aid, scholarships, and veteran benefits to those who qualify. https://calaero.edu