Spartan College and Republic Airways establish career pipeline program

Tulsa-based Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology and Republic Airways announced Thursday the establishment of a career pipeline interview program.

The purpose of the new program is to increase Republic Airways’ access to qualified applicants for pilots and technicians and to increase employment opportunities for Spartan graduates, according to a press release.

The career pipeline interview program will allow aviation students to interview before they graduate. If all qualifications are met, students could be given a conditional offer of employment.

Pilots will also receive a signing bonus ranging from $7,500 to $12,500 depending on the aircraft they will be trained on when they begin work for Republic Airways, an Indianapolis-based regional carrier.

Students in the maintenance program may also interview before they graduate. However, students must pass their certification test prior to a formal job offer. Some maintenance graduates will receive a $2,500 relocation bonus depending on where they are assigned.

“We anticipate a need to hire approximately 600 pilots and 150 technicians to meet our future demands,” said Lauren McNamara, college relations consultant for Republic Airways. “And Spartan has a proven history of recruiting and training the best in the industry. It is a win-win for us both.”

Source