Career pathways and professional organizations
Pursue your aviation dream career with these starter resources. In addition to the resources below, consider volunteering at the CR Smith Museum. Note: You must be at least 16 years old to volunteer. Learn more.
Aviation Career Pathways Program New program led by the CR Smith Museum and American Airlines supports students in Dallas-Fort Worth. Listen to learn about the program.
Growing aviation career pathways
Real stories, real possibilities
Curious about what it’s like to work in the airline industry? Whether you’re a high school student planning your next steps or an adult considering a new direction, the videos below offer a behind-the-scenes look at exciting careers across aviation. Explore real stories, real people, and real possibilities for your future!
Pilots
Commercial airlines, including American Airlines and Envoy, offer programs for prospective pilots with little or no flight experience. Pursue your pilot dream career. Learn more
Tech Ops
AMTs at American — and around the world — who work to ensure each aircraft is safe and reliable for the millions of customers and team members who fly every year. Learn more
Cybersecurity
ADEPT is a two-year development and rotation program for recruits hired out of college as full-time employees. The program is comprised of software developers who will work in a wide variety of technology, whether it’s what you see at the airports, on aa.com or elsewhere.
Learn about IT Adept Jobs at American
Other Careers
“Straight to the Gate” is a series that hears from employees in a variety of roles at American.
Professional organizations and resources
There are many professional aviation groups that offer scholarships, educational opportunities (i.e., webinars, articles, etc.) and networking events. Some to consider include:
Advancing Women in Transportation (WTS)
WTS is an international organization with a mission to “attract, sustain, connect and advance women’s careers to strengthen the transportation industry.” Programs include leadership training and mentoring, networking, education, and professional development.
American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)
AIAA’s purpose is to ignite and celebrate aerospace ingenuity and collaboration, and its importance to our way of life
Air Traffic Control Association (ATCA)
ATCA is dedicated to the progress in the science of air traffic control and the preservation of a safe flight environment.
Forever on the Fly
Forever on the Fly is a non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring and educating next generation youth in the field of Aviation and Aerospace while fostering an inclusive, diverse, equitable, and accessible environment.
National Business Aviation Association (NBAA)
NBAA is the leading organization for companies that rely on general aviation aircraft to help make their businesses more efficient, productive and successful.
Ninety-Nines
The Ninety-Nines organization promotes the advancement of aviation through education, scholarships and mutual support.
Sisters of the Skies
A non-profit organization made up of professional black female pilots who are committed to supporting future black aviators through mentorship, professional development, outreach and scholarship.
Women in Aviation International (WAI)
A non-profit organization made up of professional black female pilots who are committed to supporting future black aviators through mentorship, professional development, outreach and scholarship.
Professional Aviation Maintenance Association (PAMA)
PAMA promotes professionalism among aviation maintenance personnel.
Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association
The AOPA team, operating out of offices in Frederick, Maryland, and Washington, DC, exists to protect and to grow the incredible privilege that we call general aviation.
Experimental Aviation Association (EAA)
EAA is a community of passionate aviation enthusiasts that promotes and supports recreational flying.
Latino Pilots Association
Founded in 2015, the Latino Pilots Association is a nonprofit organization committed to empower, support, and mentor the underrepresented in our communities and in aviation.
National Gay Pilots Association (NGPA)
NGPA’s mission is to build, support and unite the LGBT aviation community worldwide.
Professional Asian Pilots Association (PAPA)
PAPA is dedicated to bringing awareness and support to all members of the Asian community in all fields of aviation. We hope to inspire current and prospective professionals towards a fulfilling career in aviation.
If you need any assistance along your journey or have questions, email students@crsmithmuseum.org.