White Plains, N.Y., August 1, 2024 – Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc. (“Atlas” or the “Company”), a leading global provider of outsourced aviation logistics, proudly announced today that it will award $50,000 in scholarships to the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA). The needs-based scholarships will help offset education costs for students pursuing careers in the aviation industry. The award will include four $5,000 scholarships for students pursuing careers as Aviation Maintenance Technicians and three $10,000 scholarships for those aspiring to become pilots.
Atlas’ donation to UAA underscores the Company’s dedication to contributing to the vibrant future of aviation in Alaska. Anchorage’s proximity, within 9.5 hours by plane of 90% of the industrial world, positions it as a vital hub for global commerce, training, and talent development, and it plays a key role in Atlas’ operations. Annual Atlas departures at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) have grown to more than 7,000 in 2023, supported by over 600 Alaska-based employees who live and work in Anchorage and the surrounding communities.
“We are excited to partner with the University of Alaska Anchorage to develop future aviation leaders,” said Michael Steen, Atlas Air Worldwide Chief Executive Officer. “Our commitment to ‘Caring for the World We Carry’ includes supporting the communities integral to our global operations. By advancing aviation education, we are helping students reach new heights with valuable career opportunities in flying and ground operations.”
The University of Alaska Anchorage plays a crucial role in meeting the growing needs of the industry by offering a top-tier aviation program with four specialized tracks – Air Traffic Control, Aviation Management, Aviation Maintenance, and Professional Piloting – making it an ideal location for workforce development.
“We are incredibly grateful to Atlas Air for investing in UAA students and our communities,” said Sean Parnell, UAA Chancellor. “UAA educates and trains students to fill critical workforce shortages in industries vital to our state’s economy. Thanks to the support of Atlas Air, we can expand aviation opportunities for students so they can positively impact our state.”
“This scholarship is going to have a profound impact on our program, improving our student’s ability to get through the program on time,” said Ray Weber, Dean of UAA Community & Technical College. “So many of our students work full-time jobs trying to make ends meet and pay tuition. With support from Atlas Air, our students will get through the program quickly with a high level of skill, knowledge and preparation to work in Alaska.”
About Atlas Air Worldwide
Atlas Air Worldwide is a leading global provider of outsourced aircraft and aviation operating services. It is the parent company of Atlas Air, Inc., and Titan Aviation Holdings, Inc., and is the majority shareholder of Polar Air Cargo Worldwide, Inc. Our companies operate the world’s largest fleet of 747 freighter aircraft and provide customers the broadest array of Boeing 747, 777, 767 and 737 aircraft for domestic, regional and international cargo and passenger operations.
About The University of Alaska Anchorage
The University of Alaska Anchorage is Alaska’s largest university, educating nearly 12,000 students annually. UAA transforms lives through teaching, research, community engagement and creative expression in a diverse and inclusive environment. As the state’s largest university, UAA is a driving force in Alaska’s economy, producing over 1,600 graduates each year, with a large percentage entering the Alaska workforce. UAA has programs in professional piloting, aviation management, aviation maintenance technology and air traffic control. In 2022, UAA graduated 273 students to the aviation sector. Learn more at uaa.alaska.edu/aviation.
