Chicago Department Of Aviation Expands Free Aviation Career Course With City Colleges Of Chicago

Chicago Department Of Aviation Expands Free Aviation Career Course With City Colleges Of Chicago

For the First Time, CDA Leadership to Serve as Guest Lecturers, Providing Direct Access to Aviation Leaders

CHICAGO - The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) is launching the third year of its partnership with Olive-Harvey College to offer a free continuing education course designed to prepare Chicagoans for careers in aviation, and for the first time, members of CDA's senior and executive leadership team will serve as lecturers.

Originally introduced in 2023, the course provides students with a comprehensive introduction to Chicago's aviation ecosystem - from airport operations and federal partnerships to airline coordination and safety regulations. This year's expanded format brings more than a dozen CDA officials, including senior leaders and subject-matter experts, directly into the classroom to share real-world experience and insight.

"The strength and future of Chicago's airports depend on the talent of our workforce," said CDA Commissioner Michael J. McMurray. "As experienced aviation professionals begin to retire, rebuilding that pipeline is essential. This class creates that pathway by giving Chicagoans, regardless of background, direct exposure to the wide range of careers available in aviation."

Since its inception, more than 200 students have completed the introductory course, gaining the tools and knowledge needed to pursue careers in one of Chicago's most vital industries. Participants receive an inside look at how airports and airport stakeholders operate, an overview of safety and security requirements, and insight into contracting and business opportunities at Chicago's airports.

"Olive-Harvey College is proud to continue our partnership with the Chicago Department of Aviation in expanding meaningful pathways into one of Chicago's most dynamic industries. This program reflects our commitment to meeting students where they are and connecting them with careers that meet their passion. By opening our classrooms to CDA's executive team, we are giving our students unprecedented access to real-world opportunity and learning from industry leaders. This ensures that Chicagoans are not only prepared to enter the aviation workforce, but better equipped to lead it," said Dr. Kimberly Hollingsworth, president of Olive-Harvey College.

The eight-week course meets twice weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 7 p.m. Classes are held live virtually via Zoom, with select sessions held in person - including a guided airport tour - providing students with hands-on, behind-the-scenes exposure to airport operations.

The curriculum includes:

• Week 1: Airport Business and Administration Overview
• Week 2: Program Coordination and Project Support
• Week 3: Airport Finance, Budgeting and Grants
• Week 4: Procurement, Contracts and Vendor Management
• Week 5:Workforce Development and Human Resources
• Week 6: Intergovernmental Affairs, Aviation Planning and Policy
• Week 7: Course Recap and Career Pathways
• Week 8: On-Site Airport Experience

The upcoming session begins March 3, 2026. There will be no class during the week of Spring Break (March 23). Additional sessions will be offered later this year during the summer and fall semesters.

Individuals interested in enrolling can visit flychicago.com/ACPP for additional details and information on how to apply on City Colleges of Chicago's website.