Military Veterans Enlist with Envoy

By Ali Pollard

The aviation industry is continually experiencing a surge in demand for pilots and aviation maintenance technicians, but the extensive and costly training and certifications required for these careers has become a significant barrier to entry for many Americans. This shortage of qualified personnel has left many airlines struggling to fill open positions on the ground and in the air. Therefore, investing in the next generation of aviation professionals is crucial to ensure that the industry continues to thrive and meet the growing demand for air travel. More accessible and affordable training programs can help bridge the skills gap and prepare a diverse group of individuals for successful airline careers.

Envoy Air, the largest wholly owned regional airline subsidiary of American Airlines Group (AAG), is committed to providing resources and opening doors for aspiring aviation professionals. As part of this endeavor, the company supports veterans in their transition to civilian life and provides them with opportunities to pursue airline careers. Envoy’s Maintenance Military Transition Program (MTP) is one such initiative that aims to help servicemembers with military aviation maintenance training and experience transfer their skills to become commercial aircraft maintenance technicians (AMT).

Returning to civilian life can be daunting, especially when it comes to finding meaningful employment. Veterans bring a valuable set of skills and experiences to the table, including leadership, discipline, and problem-solving abilities. However, experiences gained in the military may not always directly translate to the civilian workforce. Additional training, education, and financial support may be required to acquire new skills or refresh existing ones. The Envoy MTP helps servicemembers overcome these challenges by providing them with the necessary training and certifications needed for an airline career.

Through Envoy’s MTP, servicemembers have a unique opportunity to leverage their military experience and skills to pursue a fulfilling and well-paying career. Envoy’s maintenance recruiting team works closely with each MTP candidate to create a customized transition plan that covers all costs incurred, including training, transportation, lodging, study materials, FAA testing, and airframe and powerplant (A&P) licensure. Upon completion of the course, a newly licensed A&P mechanic will immediately begin new hire training as a full-time Envoy A&P mechanic for the Embraer 170/175 fleet certification at bases across the country, including: Abilene and Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas; Chicago, Illinois; Columbus, Ohio; Little Rock and Bentonville, Arkansas; Marquette, Michigan; Miami, Florida; Phoenix, Arizona; and Springfield, Missouri.

As an Envoy AMT, MTP graduates are eligible for sign-on, experience, and relocation bonuses to further assist with their career transition. In addition, maintenance technicians enjoy a strong work-life balance, exceptional advancement opportunities, and top-notch benefits. With Envoy’s MTP, servicemembers can confidently pursue a fulfilling career in maintenance and continue to serve their country in a meaningful way.

Susan’s Success Story

Meet Susan Rampke, one of the many successful MTP graduates, who is now making her mark as a skilled AMT and Maintenance Supervisor at Envoy. Susan’s career journey began when she followed her father’s footsteps and joined the Army after graduating high school. After nearly four years of service as a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter mechanic, she left active duty and obtained her bachelor’s degree in business. However, while exploring a new path after the military, she often reminisced about her time in maintenance.

“I grew up around aviation, and I had been looking for an opportunity to join the civilian aviation maintenance community,” said Susan. “I was already signed off by the FAA to take my A&P exams, but I always psyched myself out of taking the test.”