Will Offer Internship, Interview Opportunities

Following the lead of programs such as Delta Connection Academy, which promise an interview with a carrier upon successful completion of training, Western Michigan University's College of Aviation signed a deal with ExpressJet Airlines this month that allows the school's graduates to interview with the airline.

The Kalamazoo Gazette reports graduates who complete jet-equivalency training with a "B" average or better will be eligible for an interview, as long as they also have a 3.0 grade-point average and 450 hours flight time (including 50 hours multi-engine time.)

"It's really a significant first step and a big plus for the opportunity we're able to offer our student graduates," said Rick Maloney, dean of WMU's College of Aviation.

The program is effective immediately.

Also known as Continental Express, ExpressJet is Continental's regional carrier. The airline flies Embraer 135- and 145-series RJs. In addition to the interview program, ExpressJet will also offer three-month student internships in the areas of administration, maintenance or flight ops.

Administrators at WMU say the initial agreement with ExpressJet lasts six months, and will then come up for review. The school also has verbal agreements with other airlines, Maloney said, but nothing is in writing with those carriers as of yet.

FMI: www.wmich.edu, www.expressjet.com