Empowering Future Aviators with Tuskegee Next

From The Runway Up: An Airport and Aviation Podcast

In this episode, hosts Becky and Caitlin discuss the Tuskegee Next program—a nonprofit initiative dedicated to empowering underrepresented youth through aviation. The conversation highlights how the program builds on the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen to provide flight training, career development, and networking opportunities for aspiring pilots and aviation professionals.

Key Topics & Segments:

• Spotlight on Tuskegee Next:
  Discussion of the program’s origins, inspired by the historical legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, and its mission to bridge the gap for underrepresented youth in aviation.

• Guests & Program Details:

• • • Angel Attawia (Interim Executive Director)
    • Jairo Vargas (Interim Program Director & Program Graduate)
  • On the Mission of Tuskegee Next:
    • “Our mission for Tuskegee Next is that we empower the next generation of aviators, not only to transform themselves, but transform their communities.”
    • “It’s hard to be what you can’t see, and our main goal and mission of [Aviation Day] is showing kids within the community who are underrepresented that there are other options out there for them.”

• On the Legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen:

• • • “The history of the Tuskegee Airmen—they were the first group of African American pilots commissioned by the Air Force. They flew over 1,500 combat missions and had the lowest number of bombers lost, which is incredible.”
    • “The original Tuskegee Airmen helped commission our program and gave us the Tuskegee Next name.”

• On the Impact of the Program:

• • “For an average person to get their private pilot license, it takes about four to six months. Our cadets do it in eight weeks.”
  • “We have a 97% success rate within our program.”
  • “It’s not just about creating great pilots—it’s about workforce development, life training skills, career development, networking, and mentorship.”

Resources & How to Get Involved:

• Visit tuskegeenext.org.
• Social Media:
  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Tuskegeenext
  • Instagram: @tuskegeenext
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tuskegee-next-foundation/
• Annual Events: Aviation Day in Chicago (July 10) and plans to host a future event in Knoxville in 2026.

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