The Propel Podcast
Connecting future Delta pilots through shared experiences and candid conversations about life in the Propel Career Pathway Program.
The Propel Podcast
🛫 Propel and Endeavor Air Join Forces: What Aspiring Pilots Need to Know
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In this episode we sit down with Endeavor Air to talk about how our partnership is shaping the future of the Propel. From expanded selection criteria to updated application timing, this conversation breaks down what’s changing, why it matters, and how aspiring pilots can prepare for what’s next.
Welcome to the Delta Propel Podcast. I'm your host, Marcus Brown, program leader with the Delta Propel Career Pathway Program. I'm excited to be back with another episode. Today, we have a special guest joining us from Minneapolis in the Endeavor team. I would like to welcome Max Dreso, talent acquisition supervisor of pilot outreach.
SPEAKER_00Thanks for joining me today, Max. Thank you, Marcus. Happy to be here and I'm excited to chat about what's going on with Endeavor Air and with Propal. Well, it's great to have you here.
SPEAKER_01Now, when I started my journey in aviation, one thing I was always told was that this is an ever-changing industry that involves at a moment's notice. Working for the Delta Propel Career Pathway Program has amplified my understanding as we continue to develop our program based on the needs of Delta in the industry. This leads us to today's discussion about the evolution of the Propel Pathway Program for candidates from affiliate universities and flight schools. As a part of this evolution, Delta Endeavor will integrate recruiting, pilot selection activities under the Propel brand as we work together to identify the best future Delta pilots. In January, it was announced that the Propel program would be expanding its footprint and opening up the selection criteria to more aspiring pilots from all U.S. based universities with flight programs accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International, what we like to call Abbey. This was exciting news not only for the Delta and Propel family, but for all of our new qualified candidates that would have the opportunity to join the Propel program. Now, Max, I'm just gonna jump right out there and get down to the nitty-gritty and ask you some of the tough questions. I'm just playing. I'm just playing. So when can I apply? What are the selection criteria to apply? Do I meet the selection criteria to apply? Those have just been a few of the many questions we've received since the change has been announced. I'm sure you're receiving some of the similar questions that we are. So with those changes to the selection criteria, can you share some of the updated preferred qualifications for the Propel program?
SPEAKER_00Yeah, it's definitely really good questions. So, first off, we really like to see candidates who've earned a bachelor's degree and have done their initial training at one of our Abbey accredited universities or flight schools here in the U.S. We also look for pilots that are currently flight instructing at one of the affiliated universities and who have taken on some type of leadership role within their flight school. That leadership role can either be, for example, a lead CFI, a stage track instructor, or maybe helping manage student progress to make sure that the schools are progressing. Those experiences really show us a strong foundation and a commitment to the training environment. In terms of timing, because that's been a big question for us as well, we encourage students to apply when they are roughly 12 months from hitting their minimums. That window gives them plenty of time to complete the hiring and selection process and sets them up for a seamless transition into FO training here at Endeavor. We've consistently seen the most success with pilots who don't have a long gap between stepping into the 121 environment and their time leaving their school. So that timing really helps them stay sharp and confident as they make that jump. So if you're a student who checks those boxes, that's a great indicator that you're in a strong place to apply with us.
SPEAKER_01Awesome. Again, to those who are listening, this is a shift from our previous propel requirements that allow collegiate students to apply after they earn their pilot certificate, completed at least one Part 141 course in our juniors or seniors. And before we go any further, I just want to make sure that we do share some of the basic selection criteria to apply. So for the students and graduates of our U.S.-based four-year ABI accredited flight education programs, they're able to apply. For those attending a flight school affiliate, you must have completed flight training at a Propel affiliate flight school. And that's instrument or above ratings. You have to be actively flight instructing. Of course, have your FAA first class medical certificate. You must hold a current passport or other travel documents enabling you to freely exit and re-enter the U.S. Multiple re-entry status is required. You have to legally be eligible to work in the U.S. without any sponsorship now or in the future. And for all of our current Delta employees, you still must have two years of service, 24 months total as an active Delta Airlines employee, and you have to be on an active status within the past six months and be in good standing. So I just wanted to make sure that we covered all of our bases. So Max, as a supervisor for pilot outreach at Endeavor, I'm certain that this change has raised several questions about the candidates who participated in the Endeavor STEP program. Can you shed some light on those individuals and uh who were in the STEP program?
SPEAKER_00Yes, absolutely. And I'm glad you brought that up because we know that students who were in the Endeavor STEP program have had a lot of questions about what this change means for them. The good news is that they're not losing anything. In fact, they're actually gaining even more support. Anyone who participated in STEP will now be invited to join the Propelled Talent community as they continue their flight training at one of the affiliated partner schools. And this isn't just a mailing list, it's really an intentional support system. The propelled talent community is designed to stay with them throughout their whole training, their ongoing school visits, and exclusive presentations, and direct access to their assigned Endeavor Air recruiter. They've also received personalized guidance to help them succeed not only at Endeavor Air, but eventually at Delta Airlines as well. So instead of STEP operating on its own, these students are now connected to a broader, more structured community that gives them people resources and insights that move them confidently toward their future airline career. And when they get within that 12-month window of hitting the restricted ATP or ATP minimums, they'll be perfectly positioned to apply with us as a Propel candidate.
SPEAKER_01So you mentioned candidates should apply within 12 months of reaching their RATP, ATP minimums. Would they then apply through the Propel or Endeavor website?
SPEAKER_00Great question. So interested candidates should apply directly through Endeavor Air's website, which we then use airline apps, which it will be redirected to. That is the official entry point for the Propel pathway and the best way to move forward with the formal hiring and selection process.
SPEAKER_01So what type of communication and timeline can a candidate expect from Propel once they submit the Delta Propel application?
SPEAKER_00So once someone submits their Delta Propel application, the hiring process does take a little bit of time for us. And this is usually a couple of weeks. So we just encourage candidates to be patient as everything moves through the system. In terms of communication, most applicants can expect to receive their first update with next steps roughly three to four weeks after submitting their application. That's typically when they'll hear from our team about where they will stand in the process. From there, the entire hiring and selection timeline usually takes about one to two months to complete, depending on scheduling and how quickly each step is finished. So we want students to know that the process is moving, even if you don't hear from us right away, that the timeline is completely normal and to just be patient.
SPEAKER_01Yeah, I know I know students can sometimes be a little impatient and want that instant gratification. So just those out there listening, just remember, just be patient. Um, now are letters of recommendations required to apply?
SPEAKER_00So, first off, um, letters of recommendation or referrals are not required to apply. Candidates can absolutely submit their application without them. So, with that being said, we always do encourage students to continue building and strengthening their application and do that however they can. And recommendations can definitely help with that. If a candidate does have a referral or a letter of recommendation from an Endeavor Air employee, that employee will actually submit that themselves through the Endeavor Air Employee Intranet under the pilot referral tab. It walks them through a quick form, and once they submit it, the referral automatically attaches to the candidate's application. We do recommend that the student has already submitted their application so that when the employee submits this referral, it ties directly to their application within our system. And that just makes sure everything links correctly. If you have a letter of recommendation or a referral from a Delta employee, the process is a little bit different. Delta employees will actually send their referrals or letter of recommendations to our email address, which is pilot.referral at endeavorair.com. Or even better, we encourage them to connect with the candidates assigned talent acquisition representative so we can make sure it gets attached properly. So again, um it's not required, but we definitely encourage that to add depth to your application.
SPEAKER_01Awesome. That's that's great information, Max. Uh, now that we have the selection quite criteria questions out of the way, let's get down to what you know people really want to know. What makes a top-tier candidate, what is Propel looking for in a candidate?
SPEAKER_00When we talk about a top-tier propel candidate, we're looking for more than just strong flight training or hitting their minimums. We want to see someone who's fully engaged in their environment, not only in the cockpit, but on campus and within the broader aviation community. So, yes, solid flying skills, good judgment, and a strong communication are all critical. But what really elevates a candidate is everything they're doing outside of just flying. That might be taking on a leadership role at their flight school, getting involved in student organizations, mentoring younger students, participating in aviation clubs, volunteering, attending industry events, or even contributing to their campus community in meaningful ways. So those things are a few important qualities. It highlights initiative, professionalism, teamwork, and a genuine commitment to the industry. And that's the kind of engagement we like to see our pilots. And those are the ones that are typically thriving in the 121 environment and will eventually succeed at Delta as well.
SPEAKER_01That's a great tip, Max. Listeners, you heard it here first. Take notes of that. That's going to be very important as you move forward through your career. Now that Propel has expanded to include 34 universities with ABBI accreditated flight programs and select flight schools as affiliates, what are the plans for some of those outreach events?
SPEAKER_00Yeah, great question, Marcus. Um, so this expansion to all of the ABI accredited universities and flight schools has really opened the door for us to take our outreach to a whole new level. With such a large network now, our goal is to be more present and more engaged on every campus than ever before. So, what will this look like? Well, first, we're going to increase the number of school visits and bringing more exclusive presentations directly to students and instructors. We want folks to hear the latest about Endeavor and propel straight from the source, and we want to make sure that they always know who their recruiter is and how they can connect with us. We're also putting a much bigger emphasis on building genuine relationships and a community. That means hosting more fun, special events, things like going go-karting, bowling, maybe going on a campus social, and exploring opportunities for students to get us to know us in a more relaxed, informal environment. And on top of that, we're rolling out more professional development workshops. These will include resume reviews, interview prep sessions, and maybe QA panels. These workshops give students real practical tools that they can use and prepare for airline interviews and the 121 environment. And of course, we'll continue hosting regular meet and greets with our recruiters so students can ask questions, get guidance, and stay plugged into the pathway to Endeavor and then later on Delta Airlines. Overall, our outreach is becoming more intentional, more frequent, and a lot more engaging. We want to show up, support students early, and be present on campus as they move through their training and into Propel.
SPEAKER_01Now, for my own personal, let's say, interest, can can I be a part of some of those go-karting nights and bowling events? You know, I I can't, you know, I am pretty good as a bowler. So I would have to warn you though, I am pretty good. So we'll have to see.
SPEAKER_00Once they join, they'll automatically receive notifications about school visits, those special events, any professional development workshops and presentations that are happening on their campus or maybe in their region. In addition to that, we're always encouraging students to check in with both their Endeavor Air website and the Propel website because that's where we will post most of our details about our larger events. Things like big recruiting days, aviation conferences, or maybe multi-school gatherings. So the best approach is a combination of both. Join the Propel talent community for the most personalized updates and keep an eye out on our both of our websites for the major events happening throughout the year. Will interviews be conducted at career fairs and conferences? That is a great question. And to clarify for everyone, we are no longer conducting interviews at career fairs or sponsorship events. Those events are really going to be meant for connection, educating, and getting your questions answered. All formal propel interviews are now taking place in Minneapolis, Minnesota at Endeavor Air's headquarters. So once a candidate reaches that stage of the process, we actually provide both air travel and hotel accommodations. It's typically a one-day interview event. So typically candidates will fly in the evening before, stay at one of our partnered hotels, and then use that hotel shuttle to the next morning to get to our hiring center. It's a very structured, consistent experience for every applicant, and we want to make sure they feel supported and prepared throughout the entire process.
SPEAKER_01Now, Max, you you've come today dressed to impress. Now, do you recommend candidates coming dressed in business professional attire to these events?
SPEAKER_00Another great question, Marcus. When it comes to interviews or any of our onboarding events, for example, like Propel Welcome Day, we expect candidates to dress in a professional attire. Delta is known for its professionalism and the premier travel experience we provide. And we want candidates to reflect that standard from day one. Dressing your best sets the tone for success and helps you prepare for expectations we have for our pilots once they're out flying the line. For all other outreach events, for example, if we come to campus, we recommend business casual attire. And we say this because first impressions really do matter and showing up polished and put together can go a long way. Whether meeting with recruiters or attending a presentation or engaging with industry partners. So to recap, keep it professional for the interviews and any onboarding events, but business casual is okay for the uh campus outreach events. It's all about representing yourself and the profession, and that is how we do it in the best possible way. That's great advice.
SPEAKER_01Um, okay, so I hate to ask, but I wouldn't be doing my job if I didn't. For candidates who are not selected for an interview or unsuccessful during any phase of the selection process, what are the next steps for those individuals?
SPEAKER_00Yeah, that's a really important question. And I'm glad we can walk candidates through what reapplying looks like. If someone isn't selected the first time around, we definitely encourage them to come back and we want to see meaningful growth before they do. Within a nine-month period, candidates can complete at least one of the significant development milestones. And so the first option is earning a new type rating and actively using that rating in their current role. The second option is obtaining an additional instructor qualification, which will then strengthen both their experience and their ability to contribute to the training environment. The third area that we look at is what we are calling bridging failure to success. That means showing how they've taken past challenges and turned them into a forward progress. For example, stepping into a lead role at their flight school or taking on new responsibilities that demonstrate maturity and readiness for the 121 environment. We also look at overall activity during those nine months. Our benchmark is around 400 hours, but depending on the candidate's situation, we need to see at least 250 hours of flying to consider the reapplication. So the big takeaway is we're not just looking for time to pass. We really want to see you grow, develop, and see that momentum in your career. If a pilot can demonstrate that progress, we absolutely encourage them to reapply.
SPEAKER_01Great, great, great advice. Now, Max, if potential candidates do have any questions or concerns, how and to whom should they reach out?
SPEAKER_00Yeah, so if potential candidates have any questions or just want to connect with us directly, there are two easy options to reach the Endeavor team. So first, they can email us at propel at endeavorair.com. Again, that's propel at endeavorair.com. And that inbox is monitored by our talent acquisition team. And so they can make sure that you get your responses. The second option is calling our pilot recruiter hotline, which is actually staffed by pilots who fly in the line and also support our recruitment team. The hotline is available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 30 p.m. Central Time. And even if we're tied up and talking with someone else, we always encourage you to leave a voicemail. That phone number is 612-266-1470.
SPEAKER_01Now, as we bring this episode to an end, I always like to share one pro tip we can leave our listeners with. What is your number one piece of advice for individuals applying for Repel Max?
SPEAKER_00Yeah, and that's a great closer, Marcus. If I had to leave listeners with one pro tip, it would be this: don't rush the process and don't try to be anyone but yourself. As pilots, you're wired to look ahead at the next milestone, the next rating, the next hour, the next interview, and the next airline. While consistent progress is important, especially as you move through your final hours of time building, and then to endeavor and then Delta, it's just as important to actually live in each phase. One day you'll look back and realize these moments were some of the most memorable parts of your career. So stay focused, keep growing, but don't sprint through it. Be present, be authentic, and enjoy the journey you're on. The process isn't just about reaching the airline job, it's about becoming the pilot and the professional you're meant to be along the way.
SPEAKER_01Awesome. That's a great tip, Max. Thank you so much for that. I would also like to add that the selection numbers are based on operational needs. Candidates must meet the qualifications, complete the application process, which includes an application review, testing, in-person interview. So again, interested candidates should apply directly at propel.delta.com, which will direct them to the Endeavors Airline apps application where they can apply for the Propel program. Max, thank you so much for taking the time to speak with me today. Thank you so much, Marcus. This has been a lot of fun. I know this information is invaluable to our future candidates looking to be a part of the Propel program. A list of all propel affiliate universities and flight schools can be found on the Propel website. That's propel.delta.com. Again, propel.delta.com. The new Delta Propel application will go live on March 30th, and candidates will be able to apply once they meet the selection criteria. For all of you listening, remember you can always reach out with any general questions to the propel team at propellatdelta.com with any questions or concerns. Well, that wraps up our podcast for today. Until next time, be safe, fly safe, and as always, we appreciate you.