Contact: Crystal Drake, Office of Strategic Communications
Tuskegee University rolled out the runway for Airbus executives this week, showcasing the strength of its College of Engineering and its growing capacity to prepare students for careers in one of Alabama’s most critical economic sectors: aviation and aerospace. With Airbus continuing to expand its footprint in Mobile and across the nation, the visit highlighted how Tuskegee’s talented students can contribute to the future workforce of a global industry leader.
Faculty, students and Trustee Jonathan Porter joined Dr. Mark A. Brown, president and CEO, in welcoming the Airbus team and spotlighting the exceptional aerospace engineering, advanced manufacturing, and research underway on campus.
“We were honored to host Airbus and to demonstrate firsthand how Mother Tuskegee is preparing world-class talent for an industry that is vital not only to national security and global commerce, but also to the economic future of the state of Alabama,” said Dr. Brown. “Aviation has been central to Tuskegee’s brand for more than 80 years from the legendary Tuskegee Airmen to the innovative work happening today — and we see Airbus as a natural partner in writing the next chapter of that legacy.”
Led by Craig Savage, head of local and state affairs at Airbus, the team toured engineering labs and facilities, engaging directly with students about their research and current projects.
Camille White, a Mechanical Engineering master’s student from St. Louis, guided the group through her development of an Aerofold drone, a 3D‑printable, foldable VTOL aircraft.
“It enables transition between quadcopter and fixed‑wing modes for versatile flight,” White explained. “I’m working on building the drone and making improvements to the design.”
White said she remained at Tuskegee after earning her B.S. because the sense of community—combined with access to internships, mentorship, and industry engagement—has positioned her well to enter the corporate world.
The visit aligned with Tuskegee’s focus on closing the gap between classroom learning and workforce readiness.
“It’s our Renaissance Era ethos at work,” Dr. Brown added. “We want Airbus and companies like them to see that Tuskegee students do not merely leave here with degrees, they leave here ready —with internships completed, certifications earned, technical skills honed, and the confidence to contribute immediately.”
The Airbus delegation also visited the university’s Aviation Simulation Center, reviewed its Department of Defense research portfolio, and explored opportunities for joint research, technology transfer, and enhanced university‑industry collaboration.
A highlight of the day was a visit to historic Moton Field, the proving ground of the Tuskegee Airmen. Airbus representatives saw today’s students continuing that proud tradition— young men and women training for aviation science degrees, logging flight hours, and preparing for aviation careers.
“These bright skies and low winds are perfect for flying,” said Captain Titus Sanders, director of the Aviation Science Program. “Our students are doing every task professional pilots do. They are building hours, building skill, and building careers.”
Freshman Makaylin Davis from San Antonio, Texas, shared flight check stories with Savage, whose 21‑year U.S. Air Force career includes extensive flight experience.
“We laughed about how demanding the training can be,” Davis said. Her goal is to commission into the U.S. Navy, fly the P‑8 Poseidon, and carry forward a family legacy inspired by her “bonus mom,” a Tuskegee alumna.
Students like sophomore Aviation Science major Willie Murdock of Fresno, California, showed Airbus how Tuskegee prepares students for multiple pathways.
“As Aviation Science students, we have a clear route to become certified flight instructors through our partnership with LIFT Academy,” Murdock said. “From there, many of us advance to Republic Airways and ultimately to major U.S. airlines.”
Dr. Brown said the timing of the Airbus visit highlights an extraordinary time in the Tuskegee legacy.
“Aviation helped define who we are as a university, and today Alabama stands at the center of a growing aerospace economy. What Airbus saw here is a clear, intentional pathway—from Tuskegee classrooms and labs to internships, apprenticeships, and full‑time careers in Mobile and beyond. We want Tuskegee graduates in their assembly lines, design teams, simulation centers, and leadership roles.”
Airbus is a major driver of Alabama’s economic growth, operating multiple commercial aircraft assembly lines in Mobile and supporting thousands of jobs across the state. The company builds advanced composite aircraft structures in North Carolina, maintains innovation and engineering centers nationwide, and supports more than 275,000 American jobs through U.S. suppliers and operations.
As Alabama’s aviation and aerospace sector continues to expand, Tuskegee University is positioning its students—and its legacy—to remain at the forefront of America’s flight future.
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