After retiring as CEO of the world’s largest airline, Doug Parker, with his wife Gwen, committed to creating a nonprofit that would break down the barriers that exist in aviation. They spent years witnessing disproportionate airline pilot statistics.  Only 3.5 % of U.S. airline pilots identify as Black while only 0.5% identify as Black female airline pilots, with an overall percentage of female airline pilots totaling 7%. Piloting is an extremely difficult and noble profession that requires a diverse set of skills and intellect. Unfortunately, the systemic and financial barriers that exist have made it more difficult for some to succeed than others. Aviation can’t truly have the best pilots navigating the skies if these barriers exist.

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Breaking Down Barriers (BDB) is committed to removing all barriers to aviation that exist for underrepresented young adults, including the financial barriers to entry. We believe there is an enormous opportunity to transform the lives of underrepresented groups and their communities. Our work will begin with recruiting and retaining the best in the Dallas, Texas area before extending our mission nationwide to all minorities and to other aviation professions. 

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BDB is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to removing the financial hardships of aspiring pilots and providing supplemental support through mentorship and education opportunities. We will provide awareness and outreach to engage young adults that have been historically overlooked and under resourced.  We are excited and passionate about our work, and we hope you will join us as we break down the existing barriers in aviation to make way for the very best.