American Airlines Signs On As Lead Supporter for 2022 OBAP Conference 

More than two thousand aviation and aerospace professionals will gather August 10-12 for the 46th Annual Conference at the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass in Phoenix, Arizona. The conference, themed ReYOUnion: Reconnect. Renew. Respond, and presented annually by the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP), will feature notable speakers and partners from across the aerospace and aviation industries. 

“After two years of virtual gatherings, OBAP has crafted an exciting conference experience focused on stimulating deep connections and empowering communities through unprecedented opportunities within aerospace,” said Joel Webley, OBAP board chair.” 

“We are proud to have the incredible support of American Airlines, our lead sponsor, to fortify the success of this year’s convention,” Webley added. 

The convention will commence August 10 and include a comprehensive industry update, four hands-on personal and professional development workshops, and a myriad of opportunities to connect with industry leaders, hiring representatives, and other professionals, along with a career-focused exhibit hall. The conference footprint will also include content focused on collegiate students and free activities for local youth. In keeping with tradition, the final day of the event will close in celebration of member achievements during the annual gala. 

“Our goal is to offer exposure and opportunities at every level, and this conference is an opportunity to showcase the essence of our workforce development model as we expose, inspire and support our constituents wherever they are in their career journey,” Webley said. “Partners like American Airlines afford us the resources to support a segment of our population that is often underrepresented within this career field,” he continued. 

As the conference’s title sponsor, American Airlines leads the way in supporting educational and career-building opportunities for professionals of color.

“American remains steadfast in its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, including growing representation in all workgroups throughout the company,” said Christina Flores, Managing Director, Aviation Recruiting and Programs at American Airlines.

“We are pleased to partner with a phenomenal organization like OBAP to collaboratively increase opportunities for both current and future Black aviators,” Flores added.

Aviators and aerospace professionals from every area of the industry are invited to attend this event. Registration opens on April 20. The tentative agenda and details can be found here: https://obap.org/annual-conference 

 For promotional photos, press passes, and interviews, contact Candace Williams-Brown by email at press@obap.org.