For aviation students Donald McDermid and Austin Parrish, Class of 2026, the Delta Propel Career Path Program isn’t just a pathway — it’s a launchpad to a career in the skies, made possible through a partnership between Delta Air Lines and Jacksonville University.
“It’s a streamlined and simplified process to get to the most prestigious cockpit in America,” McDermid said.
McDermid and Parrish were accepted into Propel in late 2024. Just several months into the program, they are eager to begin flying for the major global airline. Propel provides a direct path to a pilot career, offering mentorship from Delta pilots, a qualified job offer with Delta Air Lines and its subsidiary Endeavor Air, and a seamless transition through a single interview.
“Propel guarantees one interview throughout the entire process,” Parrish said.
“The main benefit is that it’s the last interview you do,” McDermid explained. “You interview for the Delta Propel program, which guarantees you a job with Endeavor Air. Then, you flow into Delta mainline, where you can expect to retire at 65 without needing any more applications or interviews.”
With on-campus events, visits to Delta’s world headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, and personalized mentoring, Delta Propel helps aviation students gain industry knowledge and leadership skills while providing ongoing support.
JU is one of just 11 universities nationwide to partner with Delta Propel as part of its Career Pilot Collegiate Path program. Jacksonville University launched its partnership with Delta Propel in 2019, giving qualified aviation students the opportunity to fast-track their careers with structured mentorship, hands-on training and a direct path to Delta.
JU’s close-knit aviation community offers students exclusive access to Delta representatives. Through campus visits, recruitment events and engagement with Delta pilots, students gain invaluable industry insights. Many credit these relationships with shaping their career aspirations and giving them the confidence to navigate the competitive airline industry.
“JU helped with my application and the Propel process, especially with support from faculty who have worked at Delta Air Lines,” Parrish said. “The Career Design and Exploration office also assisted with the logistics to ensure I submitted the best possible application.”
“I chose JU over other in-state schools because of its connections with Delta,” McDermid said. “Many of the aviation faculty are retired Delta pilots, and those connections really help you.”
As the aviation industry faces an increasing demand for skilled pilots, Jacksonville University’s partnership with Delta Propel provides students with a distinct advantage — one that blends rigorous training, industry mentorship and a guaranteed career pathway. For McDermid, Parrish and future generations of JU aviators, this collaboration isn’t just about securing a job. It’s about launching a lifelong career at one of the world’s leading airlines. With a strong foundation, invaluable connections and the backing of JU and Delta, these students are ready to take flight — confident, prepared and set to soar.
