USA – Spartan Education Group (SEG) and Atlas Air, Inc. (“Atlas”) met in the last week of September 2024, at the Atlas’ state-of-the-art Global Operations Center near the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) for a formal contract signing ceremony and an exclusive tour of the facilities. The event marked the official launch of the new pilot training partnership, the Atlas Cadet Academy.

The Academy is designed to prepare aspiring aviators for First Officer opportunities with Atlas, operator of the world’s largest fleet of 747 freighter aircraft, serving both cargo and passenger needs. This collaboration strengthens Atlas’ workforce development strategy and continued growth across its global aviation network.

Atlas Air Senior Vice President, Human Resources, Patricia Goodwin-Peters, emphasized the significance of this collaboration:

“This strategic alliance between Team Atlas and Spartan is designed to equip the next generation of pilots with the critical skills and leadership qualities needed to excel in the ever-evolving aviation industry. At Atlas, our commitment to developing future talent and communicating the value of the cargo airline industry is stronger than ever. Together, we are passionate about shaping the next wave of aviation leaders. We are excited to see the long-term impact the Atlas Cadet Academy will have on our industry, our company, and future aviation professionals.”

The signing event was attended by Directors from Atlas’ Talent Acquisition and Human Resources departments, along with SEG’s Executive Vice President of Flight Administration, Robert Werderich, and two certified flight instructors from the Atlas Cadet Academy’s first class of cadets; Nicolas Gonzales and Matthew Madaras.

Reflecting on the visit, Matthew Madaras, ACA Certified Flight Instructor CFI, shared his impression of Atlas:

“Visiting Atlas’ Global Operation Center was astonishing. Observing the coordination of flight operations, maintenance activities, and safety protocols for every single flight Atlas release for departure is impressive. The visit to Atlas’s maintenance hangar was nothing short of amazement. Seeing the Boeing 747 aircraft, receiving a thorough walk-through preflight inspection, and seeing the ins and outs of the aircraft’s system up close was an invaluable experience. Overall, the visit to both facilities was a behind-the-scenes look at how Atlas functions smoothly and safely.”

The Atlas Cadet Academy partnership agreement was signed by Daniel Bregman, SEG’s Executive Vice President of Strategy and Development, and Matthew Sturgis, Atlas’ Director of Flying & Chief Pilot.

The Academy is now enrolling cadets at Spartan’s flight training location in West Chicago, Illinois.

Source: Atlas Cadet Academy
Photo Credit: Atlas Cadet Academy