SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT
ATL WORKFORCE PROGRAMS
Prepared By
Corliss Davenport
DeMarius Matthews
Nadia Bradford
Sekou McHenry
ATL Workforce Programs
Mission
We raise awareness, develop talent, spark career growth, and build pathways that prepare today’s workforce and inspire tomorrow’s aviation leaders.
ATL Workforce Programs Vision
Connecting people, careers, and opportunities to build the aviation workforce of tomorrow, through awareness, access, and equity.
ATL WORKFORCE PROGRAMS CORE VALUES
ACCESS: We break down barriers and open doors to ensure individuals from all backgrounds have equitable entry points into aviation careers.
ACCOUNTABILITY: We hold ourselves to the highest standards of service, transparency, and stewardship as we prepare the workforce of tomorrow.
ADVANCEMENT: We invest in people, offering resources, mentorship, and training to support lifelong professional growth.
Director’s Statement
Your work is helping us create meaningful, long-term pathways across the airport and within the broader community.
Director,
ATL Workforce Programs
As we wrap up Quarter 2, I want to thank each of you for your commitment and focus. This quarter, we continued to strengthen our core programs, including our Registered Apprenticeships, Summer Youth Employment Program, and the College Intern Program, while expanding our reach through mentorship, innovation projects, and more structured internal development efforts. Your work is helping us create meaningful, long-term pathways across the airport and within the broader community.
We’ve also made progress behind the scenes, improving our data tracking, aligning better with airport-wide goals, and laying the groundwork for tools like a revamped ATL
Workforce website and KPI dashboards. These steps are helping us tell our story more clearly, measure what matters, and stay responsive to the needs of both our people and our partners. It’s a reminder that progress isn’t just about growth, it’s also about refinement and readiness.
Thank you again for your dedication. Every program, report, meeting, and idea you contribute builds toward something larger: a resilient, inclusive workforce that reflects the excellence of ATL. Let’s keep that energy going strong into Q3.
Corliss Davenport
Organizational Structure
ATL Workforce Programs
Community Outreach Manager
Registered Apprenticeship
Mentorship Program
College Intern Program
Teacher Externship Program
Program Coordinator Senior
Project Manager III
Summer Youth Employment Program
Youth Apprenticeship Program
High School Innovation Program
Tours Program
Project Management
Eno AirMAX
Data Analysis
Web UX / UI
DeMarius Matthews Nadia Bradford Sekou McHenry
Data Analysis
Registered Apprenticeship Program
What is the Program
The ATL Registered Apprenticeship Program at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a federally recognized workforce development model, registered with the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). It meets national standards by combining paid on-the-job learning (OJL) with related technical instruction (RTI) in a structured, progressive format. Each apprenticeship includes a formal training agreement, wage progression, and mentorship to support long-term career growth. The program includes high-demand trades like Electrical, HVAC, and Welding, as well as career pathways in business operations, airport administration, and technology, expanding opportunities beyond traditional trades.
Important Information
Certifications Received Total OJL Hours Completed
22 Certifications vary by trade
Inaugural Graduates
22,147
Welding apprentices Levar Smith Sr. and Ke’Andre Kelly have graduated after completing 4,000 OJL hours and 288 RTI hours. Their dedication and discipline earned them two nationally recognized certifications each. They now serve as shining examples of the success possible through ATL Workforce Programs. Their journey highlights the power of skilled trades and workforce development.
1 of 5
ATL is one of five International Airports in the US with a Registered Apprenticeship Program.
LeVar Smith Sr. Ke’Andre Kelly
Apprentices by Trade & Cohort
Apprentice Demographics By Trade and Cohort
The ATL Workforce Registered Apprenticeship Program is a leading pipeline for developing skilled talent in trades like Welding, HVAC, ATL Enforcement and Electrical. Combining classroom related training and instruction (RTI) with hands-on training (OJL), apprentices gain real-world experience and nationally recognized certifications. So far, 16 active apprentices have joined the program, with two already transitioning into fulltime careers. Apprentices have logged thousands of OJL hours, showing strong commitment and growth. Key partnerships with schools and airport business units provide mentorship and career pathways. The program also promotes equity by creating access for underrepresented groups in the trades. With new cohorts and trades on the horizon, ATL’s model is setting the pace for workforce innovation.
Data Analysis
Summer Youth Employment Program
What is the Program
The Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport’s Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) provides rising high school juniors and seniors with paid, six-week summer positions in various ATL airport business units, giving them valuable hands-on experience, professional mentorship, and early exposure to careers in aviation and public service. The program helps students build workplace confidence, develop essential skills, and better understand future career options.
In 2025, SYEP enhanced its educational value by integrating a Work-Based Learning (WBL) component through a strategic partnership with United Way of Greater Atlanta. This initiative allows eligible students to earn academic credit by connecting real-world job experience with their classroom instruction. As a result, 45% of SYEP participants will receive WBL credit this year, demonstrating the program’s growing role in supporting both youth workforce readiness and educational advancement.
SYEP Data
SYEP Gender Demographics
57% Female Aviators
In 2025, fifty-seven percent of our enrollees are girls.
Male Aviators
In 2025, forty-three percent of our enrollees are boys.
To support our goal of reaching 80% underserved participation, SYEP refined its identification process in Q2. Instead of relying only on county income, we now use a hybrid method that combines county median household income, Free/Reduced-Price Lunch (FRPL) rates, and Title I school status to better identify students in need.
We now categorize students as follows: Underserved: From low-income counties, high FRPL
schools, or Title I schools.
Equitably Served: From schools near the state average in income or support.
Well Resourced: From high-income areas with low FRPL and no Title I status.
With this improved method, the percentage of students identified as underserved rose from 27% to 52%, a 93% increase in identifying high-need youth.
Data Analysis
College Intern Program
What is the Program
The College Intern Program offers undergraduate and graduate students, from around the United States, real-world experience at the world’s busiest airport. Interns work alongside professionals across various business units gaining valuable insight into airport operations, business functions, and public service. This program helps develop a talent pipeline by preparing students for future careers in aviation.
Intern Program
Number of Interns Colleges Represented
44
28
100%
One hundred percent of the ATL College Interns received college credit for completing the program.
Data Analysis
Mentorship Program
What is the Program
The Mentorship Program pairs each apprentice with an experienced ATL employee who offers one-on-one support, guidance, and accountability throughout the training journey. Unlike technical trainers, these mentors come from different airport business units and focus on building Essential Skills such as time management, conflict resolution, interview preparation, and workplace communication. This one on one connection helps apprentices navigate challenges, build confidence, and grow professionally. The Mentorship Program is a key component of the ATL Registered Apprenticeship Program, reinforcing its commitment to well-rounded career development and long-term success.
Mentorship Framework
Meetings Per Year
12
Mentees and Mentors meet once each month in a one on one setting
Total Mentors
19 Each Registered Apprentice is paired with a mentor
Group Mentor Meetings
5
Mentees and Mentors have group sessions throughout the year covering Essential Skills such as:
Conflict Resolution
Time Management
Interview Skills
Goal Setting
Communication
Critical Thinking
Data Analysis
Eno AirMAX
What is the Program
The Eno AirMAX Leadership Program is a professional development experience that fosters leadership, innovation, and collaboration among ATL’s mid-level employees. Participants engage in structured workshops, peer networking, and real-world problem-solving activities alongside partner airports and national organizations. Participating airports include, Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA), Denver International Airport (DEN), and Philadelphia International Airport (PHL).
Stats + Figures
Overall Program Impact Rating Confidence in Applying Learning on the Job
4.9 out of 5
Represents participant perception of program value
80%
80% of participants reported high confidence in applying learning to their work
Leadership Development Outcomes
88%
88% rated the leadership sessions a perfect 5.0
In its continued commitment to developing the next generation of airport leadership, ATL Workforce has invested in national leadership experiences through the Eno AirMAX program. The 2025 cohort includes eight mid-level ATL employees, supported by two co-facilitators and a steering committee comprised of all Deputy General Managers. Over 80% of participants reported feeling confident in applying their learning directly to their roles, with more than 85% indicating the sessions enhanced their ability to lead and solve complex operational challenges. Peer networking, executive coaching, and applied leadership scenarios were identified as especially impactful. These outcomes affirm that Eno AirMAX is a strategic tool for cultivating adaptable, visionary leaders capable of sustaining ATL’s operational excellence and organizational culture.
Data Analysis
Teacher Externship
What is the Program
The Teacher Externship Program gives educators a behind-the-scenes look at airport operations and business functions to help align classroom instruction with real-world careers in aviation. By engaging directly with ATL business units, teachers gain insights into industry expectations, emerging job pathways, and skill demands. Participants who complete 20 hours of externship work are eligible to receive professional learning credits through the Georgia Department of Education. Key partners include Atlanta Public Schools, Clayton County Public Schools, and Fulton County Public Schools. Data
Number of APS Teachers Present
Number of CCPS Teachers Present
Number of Career Pathways Explored 28
Number of APS Leaders Present 9
2
Number of CCPS Roles Represented 1
Number of CCPS Leaders Present 15
Additional Programs
Youth Apprenticeship Program
What is the Program
Engages high school students in paid, part-time apprenticeships in welding, HVAC, and electrical trades while they complete academic requirements. Students receive school credit and workforce exposure simultaneously.
Tours Program
What is the Program
Discover the world of aviation through customized tours offered by ATL Workforce for college students, high school groups, and professional organizations. Each tour is designed to match the interests of the visitor, whether educational, operational, or leadership-focused. Participants explore behind-the-scenes areas of ATL, learn about career opportunities in both operational and administrative units, and may hear from executive leaders depending on availability.
High School Innovation Program
What is the Program
This one-day immersive program challenges 10th grade students from Veritas and Atlanta Public Schools to tackle a real-world business problem that exists at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Students first study the issue in class, then visit ATL to observe the problem firsthand. Working in groups, they develop innovative solutions and present their pitches to airport leadership.
Non-Registered Apprenticeship Program
What is the Program
Includes structured training programs for adult participants that are not registered with the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) but still align with ATL’s workforce needs. A current focus is the IT focused Cyber Security track, which prepares individuals for entry-level roles in information technologies through job classroom learning, training, and on the job learning. Participants earn while they learn.
Accomplishments
CERTIFICATIONS:
WELDING HVAC ELECTRICAL
-GMAW – Gas Metal Arc
-Welding Certification
-SMAW – Shielded Metal Arc
-Welding Certification
-OSHA 10 Certification
-HVAC Level One
-Core
-Construction
-Site Safety
-Construction Site Safety
-NCCER Electrical Level
-1 Training
-Core
First Ever Tour Partnership
ATL Workforce Programs has created the first every partnership with Clayton County Public Schools to provide tours for all CCPS 10th graders.
ATL Workforce Programs plays a critical role in building a robust pipeline of talent to support the 89 unique positions across 55 business units at HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport. Through apprenticeships, internships, externships, mentorship, and youth engagement, the team connects individuals at every stage of their career journey to real opportunities in aviation. By partnering with schools, colleges, and industry leaders, ATL Workforce Programs ensures that training aligns with the operational needs of the airport. The result is a future-ready workforce equipped with the skills, exposure, and support needed to thrive in the world’s busiest and most efficient airport. Our programs don’t just fill jobs, they launch aviation careers.
Work Based Learning
ATL Workforce Programs strengthened partnerships with APS, CCPS, Fulton County Schools, by incorporating workbased learning into the program
SETA Conference
ATL Workforce Programs presented at the SETA (Southeastern Employment and Training Association) Conference 2025 in Myrtle Beach, SC.
ABL Conference
ATL Workforce Director, Corliss Davenport, provided insights as part of a panel at the Atlanta Business League’s Congress on the State of Black Business.
