Southern Illinois University Partners With United Aviate

Published in Midwest Flyer Magazine October/November 2022 Digital Issue

Southern Illinois University (SIU) in Carbondale, Illinois, has announced that it has partnered with “Aviate,” United Airlines’ pilot career development program, to offer SIU students and CFIs a clear and direct route to the airlines.

Campus Visit

SIU welcomed students to campus September 13 where the Aviate and SIU teams officially kicked off the partnership. Then, on September 14, students were urged to attend a United Airlines pilot panel where they learned more about what their journey to the flight deck could look like.

Aviate Program: The 40,000-foot View

Aviate is United Airlines’ industry-leading pilot career development program offering aspiring and established pilots the most direct path to the airline. As an Aviate university partner, current and former SIU students and instructors who apply, and are successful in the Aviate selection process, will receive a conditional job offer from United.

The journey begins with the SIU student or CFI, and continues with Aviate as they gain experience and build hours toward their R-ATP (Restricted Airline Transport Pilot) Certificate. They then have the opportunity to fly for a United Express partner or take on a leadership role at a participating Part 135 partner, before ultimately transitioning to United. Throughout the Aviate program, participants will have opportunities to connect with members of the United family, receive mentoring from a United pilot, and access to travel privileges.

Here are some initial tips about the Aviate application and interview process that will help ensure a student is prepared for what’s next:

• Visit unitedaviate.com for the latest program information.

• Students may submit their Aviate application at https://pilothiring.united.com/s/ There is a dropdown for Southern Illinois University.

• Students can practice for a variety of questions during their interview, including technical questions about their experience as a pilot, and general behavioral questions (an example might be “Tell me about a time you worked as a team to solve a problem” or “Have you ever made a mistake? How did you handle it?”) that helps the airline to better understand the student’s personality, strengths, and leadership qualities.

• Like any interview, students need to be ready to make a good first impression with professional attire and presentation.

Students may subscribe and receive the latest Aviate news and follow along on Instagram (@unitedaviate). For assistance, email aviate@united.com.

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