Inks Agreements With Kansas State University Polytechnic, Rocky Mountain College And University Of Dubuque

Republic Airline inked three collegiate partnership agreements for pilot development and career progression this month with Kansas State University Polytechnic, Rocky Mountain College and University of Dubuque. Republic is now partners with more than 25 schools across the United States to help students fast-track their careers as commercial airline pilots.

“Our college partnerships enable us to have a unique presence on the campuses where we recruit,” said Tonya Gilbert, Managing Director of Talent Acquisition at Republic. “Students and faculty know that we have a vested interest not only in hiring alumni but also in supporting their program and connecting them to resources within the industry.”

Republic has worked with each of the programs in the past to recruit students for aviation career opportunities, but this formal agreement allows for greater campus presence and curriculum support.

“We are very pleased to formalize the relationship and provide our graduates with a set pathway to a career at Republic Airline through the pipeline program we signed,” Rocky Mountain College Director of Aviation Dan Hargrove said. “We recognize Republic is a high-quality company, and we’re pleased they feel the same way about the job Rocky Mountain College is doing educating pilots.”

The partnerships enable flight students at collegiate aviation programs to interview with the airline before graduation. If students meet Republic’s qualifications, they receive a conditional offer of employment and will be eligible to receive a bonus of as much as $17,500 as well as direct support from Republic as they work toward achieving the flight hours or ratings to meet ATP minimum requirements.

"Republic Airline is a respected regional carrier that cultivates a supportive and success-driven atmosphere, and we're proud to partner with them to continue offering our professional pilot students valuable career options," said Verna Fitzsimmons, Kansas State Polytechnic CEO and dean.

Republic pilots train to fly the Embraer E170 and E175 aircraft, the most advanced commercial aircraft in our industry. Since the creation of its first partnership program in 2015, Republic has had more than 500 pilot cadets enter the program, many of whom have already transitioned into First Officers with Republic.

“This is a unique and invaluable opportunity for UD students, and we look forward to working closely with Republic in providing good career options for our students,” University of Dubuque Director of Aviation Programs Chaminda Prelis said.

(Source: Republic Airline news release)

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