Illinois Aviation Academy Celebrates 2026 Tuskegee NEXT Cohort, Surpassing 100 Licensed Pilots Trained Through Partnership

WEST CHICAGO, Ill. — [July 23, 2026] — Illinois Aviation Academy (IAA), a subsidiary of Spartan Education Group, proudly welcomed the 2026 Tuskegee NEXT summer aviation cohort as the organization continues its mission of expanding access to aviation careers and empowering the next generation of aerospace professionals. 

The 2026 cohort represents another milestone in the growing partnership between IAA and Tuskegee NEXT, a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of underrepresented youth through aviation education, mentorship, life skills training, and career pathway opportunities inspired by the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen. 

With the completion of this year's program, more than 100 licensed pilots will have been trained through Illinois Aviation Academy's involvement with Tuskegee NEXT, helping create opportunities for young aviators to pursue careers across the aviation and aerospace industries. 

"Seeing more than 100 pilots emerge from this program is an incredible achievement and a testament to the dedication of the Tuskegee NEXT cadets, instructors, mentors, and supporters," said Robert Werderich, Executive Vice President of Flight Operations, Illinois Aviation Academy. "Aviation can be a launchpad to so much more in life. Graduates of Tuskegee NEXT have gone on to become airline captains, military pilots, aerospace engineers, and leaders throughout the industry. We are honored to play a role in helping these young men and women pursue their dreams." 

Since becoming a host site for Tuskegee NEXT, Illinois Aviation Academy has provided flight training, simulation experiences, leadership development, and mentorship opportunities to program participants at its DuPage County Airport (KDPA) campus.  

Tuskegee NEXT's intensive summer aviation program provides participants with flight training, life skills development, mentorship, and exposure to career opportunities throughout aviation and aerospace. The organization's alumni have advanced into careers with commercial airlines, the military, engineering, aerospace research, and other STEM-related professions. 

The partnership reflects Illinois Aviation Academy's longstanding commitment to workforce development, aviation accessibility, and community engagement. By helping remove barriers to entry and creating pathways to high-demand careers, IAA and Tuskegee NEXT are working together to inspire future generations of aviation professionals. 

About Illinois Aviation Academy (IAA) 

Located in West Chicago, IL, at DuPage Airport (KDPA), the Illinois Aviation Academy (IAA) is a part of Spartan Education Group, LLC, and has been training pilots for three decades. Today, IAA's training facility spans 30,000 square feet and houses a fleet of over twenty-five aircraft, including the Cessna 172s and Piper Aztecs. IAA provides FAA-approved Part 141 flight training and is a proud partner of Atlas Air Worldwide.