In Long Beach, the future of aviation just got a little brighter for some local high school students. The Long Beach Airport (LGB) has launched the latest iteration of its Careers Taking Flight Externship Program, now in its second year, adding to the city's efforts in fostering career opportunities for youths. According to a press release from the City of Long Beach, the program has expanded to include two 12-student cohorts from Cabrillo and Jordan high schools, representing a doubling in size from its inaugural year.
The week-long, 40-hour program aims to introduce students to a range of aviation careers, covering information on job duties, salary expectations, and necessary qualifications. Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson praised the program, stating, "Long Beach Airport’s summer externship really propels students toward bright futures, uplifting young, talented individuals to new heights to land promising careers in the aviation industry." The city's historical ties to aviation are well known, and the sector plays a significant role in the local economy.
Students were selected for the externship after a competitive application and interview process facilitated by the Long Beach Unified School District (LBUSD). Successful participants receive a $500 incentive after completing the program, and two students from the previous year’s program were chosen for full summer internships to lead the new cohort. University Superintendent Dr. Jill A. Baker told the press, “This initiative provides our students with invaluable exposure to the aviation industry and equips them with the skills and knowledge to pursue exciting career opportunities.”
Various industry partners, such as Aeroplex/Aerolease Group, Delta Air Lines, and the FAA, have contributed to the externship by providing tours, lectures, and other learning opportunities. The program concludes with a unique experience for participants, a free exploration flight provided by the Experimental Aircraft Association’s Young Eagles program, which has offered more than two million young people a chance to fly since 1992.
