Davidson Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to build the next generation of aviation professionals through student engagement.
We are supporting students in aviation and connecting them with the necessary tools for academic accomplishment and career development.
Davidson Initiative is working to bridge the workforce gap and curb the personnel shortage in aviation by attempting to boost student completion rate in FAA training schools and to implement engagement strategies for K-12 students thereby inspiring the younger generation to pursue aviation and STEM careers.
Consequently, we are ensuring a continuous flow of eligible candidates in the workforce pipeline, to meet the rising demands of an expanding industry.
Our Story
The Davidson Initiative is evolving from the story of the vision of a boy who watched airplanes taking off and landing at a nearby airport while growing up, to the story of passionate individuals imbued with a desire to make a difference in the aviation community. Our story is typified in the testimonials of individuals who through our programs have unleashed their full academic and professional potentials. Having identified the imperatives for student success, the Davidson Initiative is committed to being at the forefront of crafting innovative solutions to support students and aspiring professionals in their quest for unbridled success.
Established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation in the state of Florida, the Davidson Initiative Inc is continuing to gain traction reaching out to students in the Greater Miami area. Through our mainstream programs, we have reached out to thousands of students and have inspired the economic empowerment of many. Our journey began when we found an organisation that caters specifically to students in the aviation community and the baton has now passed on to leveraging our experience in the field of aviation and education as a backdrop for providing students with the necessary instruments for academic success and career development.
Our programs like the CPT refresher courses have led to the certification of at least seventeen new aircraft mechanics to meet the workforce demands in the aircraft maintenance industry. Our STEM program has allowed us to engage hundreds of K-12 students; inspiring the younger generation to pursue careers in aviation and STEM. Our Career Mentoring Program has helped many to put into perspective the myriads of opportunities in aviation and has guided them to decide the right career path. Our networking events have created a platform for many students to connect with industry professionals and employers. We are beginning to break new ground with our online DroneStream program where we give lessons on drones and UAVs. Also recently introduced, are our FlyWithUs and FlyDay programs geared toward connecting K-12 students in South Florida with their passion for flight by offering discovery flight scholarships, information sessions, and networking with airline pilots.
As fascinating as our story may seem, our journey has only begun and we will continue to fulfill our mission through excellence, innovation, and service until we attain the vision.
OUR MISSION
To build the next generation of aviation professionals through student engagement. To support students and aspiring professionals in the aviation community and equip them with the necessary instruments that make for academic success and career development. Our core values are excellence, innovation and service.
OUR VISION
To build the next generation of aviation professionals through student engagement. To support students and aspiring professionals in the aviation community and equip them with the necessary instruments that make for academic success and career development. Our core values are excellence, innovation and service.
Our Team
Caron Delancy-Simard
Member, Board of Directors
Sean Gallagan, PhD
Member, Board of Directors
Davidson Nzekwe-Daniel
Chief Executive Officer
Arantxa Villegas
Chief of Staff