Careers Taking Flight Youth Program

Welcome to Long Beach Airport's Careers Taking Flight, an initiative designed to inspire and prepare the next generation of aviation professionals. Our programming, including a paid summer externship, limited college internships through the Long Beach Public Service Corps Program, airport tours, field trips and more, encompasses a suite of opportunities that offer students a comprehensive look at careers in aviation and related industries, providing them with the skills, knowledge, and connections they need to succeed.

The Careers Taking Flight program aligns with goals outlined in Long Beach’s Racial Equity and Reconciliation Initiative to eliminate social and economic disparities in communities most impacted by racism. The program also supports goals of the City’s Strategic Plan for Youth and Emerging Adults, which centers around academic and job training needs of youth.

Long Beach Airport is committed to providing diverse opportunities for students, ensuring they have the resources and support to pursue fulfilling careers in aviation and beyond.

High School Externship

A Career in Aviation

Partnerships

Details

A big part of Careers Taking Flight is our high school externship program. Launched in summer 2023 with 13 students, the program provides a 40-hour hands-on experience with a $500 incentive payment for those with perfect attendance.

In partnership with Long Beach Unified School District, this unique opportunity provides students from Cabrillo and Jordan High Schools with hands-on experience learning about various aviation careers and how to make themselves competitive for future positions. Whether the interest lies in becoming a pilot, working with airport operations, or exploring roles with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), this program is the ticket for an inside look at what it takes to succeed in the aviation industry.

In 2024, we've expanded the externship to two cohorts with a total of 24 students, doubling the size of the program, offering even more opportunities to explore aviation careers.

ABC7: Long Beach Airport's externship program teaches high school students about the aviation industry

Our business and community partners are integral to the success of Careers Taking Flight. Organizations that provided a guest speaker, facility tour, or other support include: Aeroplex/Aerolease Group, Atlantic Aviation, Chapter Seven of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s Young Eagles Program, Delta Air Lines, the Federal Aviation Administration, FlightSafety International, Fly Compton Foundation, Hawaiian Airlines, JetZero, Long Beach Aero, SoCal Jet Services, Southwest Airlines, Swinerton Builders, and the Transportation Security Administration.

We are grateful for their commitment to providing our students with unique insights into the aviation industry through tours and professional guidance. Community partnerships allow us to offer unique insights and experiences that help students understand the variety of career paths in the aviation industry. As we continue to grow, we look forward to expanding our partnerships.