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FORT WORTH, Texas — American Airlines welcomed more than 100 early career professionals from the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP) Ascension Program to its Robert L. Crandall Campus for a behind-the-scenes look at airline operations and career opportunities across the industry.
The professional development event, held for the first time outside of the annual OBAP conference, exposed students to aviation career pathways and offered a look at how American is helping shape the future of the industry.
Throughout the day, students connected with leaders across flight operations, engineering and more, engaged in panel discussions and toured the Integrated Operations Center, where they learned how real-time decisions support safe and efficient operations centered on the airline's customers.
“This moment is especially meaningful as we celebrate our centennial year and reflect on the future of our industry,” said American’s Chief People Officer Cole Brown. “Seeing this next generation of leaders on our campus reinforces why investing in early career talent and creating access to opportunity are so important as we look ahead to our next 100 years.”
The event also is part of the long-standing partnership between American and OBAP — a collaboration focused on expanding access, representation and opportunity in aviation. Together, the organizations continue to build pathways for future aviation leaders.
A student alongside American team members during a visit to the Robert L. Crandall Campus.
Students engaging during their tour on campus.
Students connect and celebrate during a networking reception following a day of programming.
“Partnerships like this are critical to creating meaningful access and exposure for aspiring aviation professionals,” said OBAP executive director Vanessa Blacknall-Jamison. “By connecting participants with industry leaders and real-world experiences, we’re helping equip the next generation with the tools and confidence to pursue careers in aviation and aerospace.”
From conversations on leadership and innovation to advice on navigating early careers, the day emphasized the value of curiosity, mentorship and connection. Students were encouraged to engage in meaningful dialogue through questions, build relationships and envision their future in aviation. The day concluded with networking opportunities, allowing participants to connect directly with American leaders and peers and reinforcing the role relationships play in building a successful career.
Through partnerships like OBAP, American continues to invest in the next generation of aviation professionals. As OBAP approaches its 50th annual conference this August in Chicago, the milestone underscores the organization’s lasting impact across the aerospace industry.
About American Airlines Group (NASDAQ: AAL)
American Airlines is a premium global airline connecting more of the U.S. to the world. With roots tracing back to an air mail carrier in the Midwestern United States in 1926, American now operates more than 6,000 daily flights to more than 350 destinations in more than 60 countries and serves more than 200 million customers annually. Powered by a proud and talented team of 130,000 aviation professionals, American’s team lives out the airline’s purpose of caring for people on life’s journey every day.
The world’s largest airline proudly celebrates its centennial year in 2026, reaching a milestone that reflects a century of innovation and the Forever ForwardSM spirit that changed the industry and the world. American introduced the first scheduled air cargo service, the first airport lounge and the first airline loyalty program and continues to reinvent the customer experience today. The airline is also a founding member of the oneworld alliance, whose members serve more than 900 destinations around the globe.
Get the latest about American at news.aa.com and @AmericanAir.
About the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP)
Founded in 1976, the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals is a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring excellence and providing opportunities in aerospace through exposure, education, and mentorship. OBAP reaches more than 20,000 students annually through its youth programs and provides career development, training, and advocacy for aerospace professionals worldwide.