DOUGLAS — The Cochise College Aviation Department recently partnered with Envoy Air in a pilot mentoring and hiring program under an agreement signed in early September.
The Pilot Pipeline Program will help Cochise aviation students transition from the college to a first officer position with Envoy, a regional airline carrier based in Irving, Texas.
Cochise College aviation students have a direct pathway to employment through an agreement with Envoy Air.
Under the terms, select Cochise students earning associate degrees in Professional Pilot Technology are mentored by Cochise aviation faculty and by Envoy pilots and staff.
Once students complete their associate degree, they will work as a certified flight instructor at Cochise College to build their flight experience to the level required by the FAA. Students can also go on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree through Cochise College’s transfer agreements with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
A Cochise College plane takes off from the runway at the Douglas Campus.
“This pipeline program gives our students an opportunity for a direct route to employment with a regional airline ,” said Cochise College Aviation Director Belinda Burnett. “In our industry, the future is brighter than it has ever been, there are more jobs than there are pilots, and we’re committed to providing our students a clear path into a rewarding and well-paying career field.”
Although the pipeline agreement doesn’t automatically move graduates into a first officer position, selected students are guaranteed an interview with the airline as early as their second year at Cochise. The agreement includes a $10,000 signing bonus once the graduate is hired and commits for a two-year period as a first officer.
In addition to its pilot training programs, Cochise College offers studies in avionics and unmanned aerial systems. Learn more at www.cochise.edu/aviation.