The First Black Pilot To Fly Solo Around The World Creates Aviation Training School

Captain Barrington Irving, renowned for his historic achievement as the first Black and youngest pilot to fly solo around the world, continues to inspire and pave the way for aspiring aviators. In a groundbreaking initiative, Irving has founded the Barrington Irving Technical Training School in Miami, Florida, with a mission to empower individuals, particularly people of color, with the skills and opportunities to excel in the aviation industry.

Teaming up with esteemed industry and community partners such as NBAA, Miami-Dade County, Miami-Dade Aviation Department, Atlantic Aviation, and Bombardier, Irving launched the professional and technical training center in South Florida in 2022. The school aims to cultivate a diverse cohort of students from local, national, and international backgrounds, focusing on various business aviation disciplines.

The Barrington Irving Technical Training School stands as a beacon of innovation, offering cutting-edge programs, training methodologies, and specialized technical and professional certifications. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, the school endeavors to bridge the gap in the aviation sector by providing access and opportunities to underrepresented communities.

In its inaugural year, the school celebrated the graduation of 15 individuals who successfully completed the rigorous training program. Each graduate not only attained valuable skills but also secured employment within the aviation sector, marking a significant milestone in their professional journeys. The graduation ceremony, held at Opa-locka Airport in Miami, held special significance for Irving, as it was at this very location where he embarked on his own aviation odyssey.

Reflecting on the achievements of the graduates, Irving expressed profound pride and gratitude. He remarked, “I am so proud of them, and to know what they started from. Opa-locka Airport is where I got my start.” The graduates, equipped with newfound knowledge and skills, are poised to make meaningful contributions to the aviation industry and carry forward Irving’s legacy of excellence and inclusion.

Among the graduates is Victor Zupiera, who secured a position as a Line Service Technician with Atlantic Aviation. Zupiera shared his gratitude for the transformative impact of the school on his career path, stating, “Working here for Barrington truly changed my whole perspective on that and my whole career path and what I wanted to pursue. I found a passion in aviation, and it’s truly changed my life.”

The graduation ceremony also garnered support from Miami Dade Mayor Daniela Levine Cava, who underscored the importance of nurturing local talent and fostering diversity within the aviation sector. Mayor Cava emphasized, “They are essential to our economy, hard to fill, and we have talent here at home that we are growing.”

As the graduates embark on their new careers, they carry with them not only the knowledge and skills acquired through the Barrington Irving Technical Training School but also a sense of purpose and determination to inspire future generations. Their journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of education and the boundless opportunities that await those who dare to dream and pursue their passions.

In Captain Barrington Irving’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion, we find a beacon of hope and inspiration for the next generation of aviators. As the Barrington Irving Technical Training School continues to soar to new heights, it heralds a brighter and more inclusive future for the aviation industry.

Denise Campbell and her two daughters, Chantel and Charnel Johnson, share more than just a familial bond—they also share a career path as flight attendants with Southwest Airlines. For the past seven years, this dynamic trio has been making memories while working side by side, enriching their professional lives with a unique blend of shared experiences and cherished moments.

Their journey began seven years ago when all three embarked on their careers in customer service and support at Southwest Airlines. Transitioning to become flight attendants, they found themselves aligned in their aspirations and goals, forging a path together in the aviation industry.

Despite collectively boasting nearly thirty years of experience, the family has had the opportunity to fly together only three times, the most recent being approximately a week and a half ago. Yet, their shared passion for their work and dedication to their roles have solidified their bond both in and out of the skies.

Denise, with 17 years of experience as a flight attendant, serves as an inspiration to her daughters, Chantel and Charnel. Her dream of becoming a flight attendant, nurtured since high school, finally took flight in 2007, following a decision to wait until her daughters were older.

Reflecting on her journey, Denise remarked, “It does give you a sense of pride. You think about when you were younger and what you thought they were going to do, and no, they end up doing the same as you.” Her daughters, in turn, express admiration for their mother’s dedication and legacy in the industry. Read more about Denise and her two daughters here.

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