Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) has established a partnership with Republic Airways to enhance career pathways for its aviation students. Announced on March 12, 2025, this collaboration integrates EKU’s aviation program—the sole four-year aviation curriculum in Kentucky, currently serving 460 students—with Republic Airways’ RJet Cadet Program.
EKU President David McFaddin emphasized the strategic alignment of academic offerings with industry demands, stating, “This collaboration allows us to directly align our academic programs with the workforce needs of the top regional carriers in the country.”
Republic Airways, a prominent regional airline operating under brands such as American Eagle, Delta Connection, and United Express, offers EKU students a direct transition from academic training to professional aviation roles. The RJet Cadet Program provides conditional employment offers as early as the instrument rating phase of their training.
Lucy Utterback, a campus recruiter for Republic Airways, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, noting, “Through partnering with EKU and their students, we are able to offer career opportunities at Republic Airways and help foster growth in the communities and industry we serve.”
This agreement marks EKU’s second pilot pathway initiative, following a 2024 partnership with Allegiant Airlines. Additionally, EKU is investing in infrastructure to support its aviation program, including a $25 million Flight Training Center at Central Kentucky Regional Airport, expected to be completed by early 2027.
These developments position EKU as a proactive contributor to addressing the national pilot shortage, offering concentrations in Professional Flight, Aerospace Management, Aerospace Technology, and Unmanned Aircraft Systems.
