NBAA Kicks Off Collegiate Connection Summer Learning Series July 22

July 6, 2021

NBAA’s Collegiate Connect program is poised to reengage students over the summer with a three-part webinar series. The live virtual learning events offer exciting and timely topics, which will prepare college-aged students headed to NBAA’s 2021 Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in October, and refresh the engagement of those not able to attend.

“We’ve lined up some great speakers and sessions and can’t wait to kick off this Collegiate Connect program,” said Jo Damato, CAM, NBAA senior vice president, education, training and workforce development. “The summer webinar series will complement the daily Collegiate Connect events to be held at NBAA-BACE, but are free and open to any college-age individual who would like to participate.”

The first live webinar, “Being Your Authentic Self in Aviation; Finding Your Allies So You Can See It, Be It,” will be held on July 22. Damato will moderate a panel of experts from Women in Aviation International, the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals, the National Gay Pilots Association, Alpha Eta Rho and the U.S. Air Force. Attendees will learn from these industry leaders about existing national support networks to help find inclusion within the industry, as well as how to be an ally for others. Panelists will discuss collegiate student chapters and the opportunities they provide for leadership growth and personal development.

An August webinar on “Building Your Digital Presence” will help participants learn the importance of a polished and confident digital presence, as well as how to create a LinkedIn profile. Tips from real-life examples of current LinkedIn profiles from a variety of panelists – from a student to a new-hire to a seasoned professional – will demonstrate how to highlight your skills and abilities.

A Collegiate Connect live webinar in September, leading up to NBAA-BACE, will focus on “Making the Most of In-Person Networking.” As students emerge from behind their computer screens and start going to in-person professional events, this webinar will show how to present yourself and engage in a way that shows your authentic self.

“We’ll demonstrate how to introduce yourself without a handshake, the best use of business cards, how to make LinkedIn connections and leaving a lasting positive impression on all of those you meet who could be future colleagues and employers,” said Damato. “Additionally, interested attendees who will be attending NBAA-BACE will be able to sign up for a resume/LinkedIn profile review after the webinar, and have the opportunity to join a student cohort that will meet daily during the show at the NBAA Booth in the Connection Zone.”