RICHMOND, Ky. – Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) and Republic Airways announced a new partnership on Wednesday, March 12.
The partnership will provide EKU Aviation students with an additional pathway to job placements through the RJet Cadet Program. EKU’s Aviation program is Kentucky’s only four-year aviation program, serving 460 students and boasting a 100% job placement rate.
“We are excited to partner with Republic Airways, a leader in the aviation industry,” EKU President David McFaddin said. “This collaboration allows us to directly align our academic programs with the workforce needs of the top regional carriers in the country. These pilot pathway programs ensure that our graduates are not only ready to step into key roles but are also equipped to contribute to the long-term success of the aviation industry.”
The partnership will offer EKU Aviation students a direct route from training to the flight deck. Republic Airways is one of the largest regional airlines in North America, offering flights operated under major airline partner brands of American Eagle, Delta Connection and United Express.
With connections to Delta Air Lines, American Airlines and United Airlines, as well as a range of base locations, including nearby airports in Lexington, Louisville and Cincinnati, the RJet Cadet Program enhances career opportunities and flexibility for future pilots.
“Republic Airways is excited to grow our relationship with Eastern Kentucky University by providing EKU graduates career pathways in aviation. 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,” said Lucy Utterback, a campus recruiter for Republic Airways.
Through this partnership, EKU flight students can secure a conditional offer of employment with Republic Airways as early as their instrument rating. Republic Airways also provides pilot pathway programs with Delta, United, Cape Air and LIFT Academy, enabling participants to tailor their ideal career path.
The partnership with Republic Airways marks the second pilot pathway program offered to EKU Aviation students. In October of 2024, EKU announced a partnership with Allegiant Airlines to launch the Accelerate Pilot Pathway Program. These programs provide EKU students with a distinct advantage in securing job offers through specialized training and certifications. The structured curriculum and hands-on flight experience equip students with the practical skills necessary to meet workforce demands, making them even more competitive in the industry.
To improve the infrastructure of its aviation program, EKU broke ground on a new Flight Training Center at the Central Kentucky Regional Airport in November. The $25 million facility, funded by Kentucky’s General Assembly, is expected to be completed by early 2027. Additionally, the airport—home to EKU Aviation—will be constructing a $4.5 million general aviation terminal, with $3.5 million in federal funding and a $1 million match from EKU.
EKU was among the nation’s first FAA-approved 1,000-hour Restricted ATP institutions to help meet the demand for pilots amid a national pilot shortage. EKU Aviation offers several concentrations for students interested in the airline industry, including Professional Flight, Aerospace Management, Aerospace Technology and Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS).
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