Pioneering Black Pilot Pays Forward Training
In 2007, Captain Barrington Irving made history as the youngest pilot and first African American to fly solo around the world. Now the trailblazing aviator is uplifting marginalized groups by teaching them aviation skills.
Irving founded the non-profit Barrington Irving Technical Training School (BITTS) in Miami to provide tuition-free aviation education, certification, and job placement assistance. He aims to dismantle financial and social barriers that have long blocked people of color from entering the industry.
Recently, BITTS held an emotional graduation ceremony for its first 15 students – a diverse group reflecting the school’s mission. Several graduates had job offers lined up with Irving’s industry partners, marking exciting starts to their careers.
Returning Full Circle to Inspire Others
The commencement event held particular significance for Irving, as it occurred at Opa-Locka Airport where he first trained as a struggling young pilot. Now he has created a launchpad to success for others at the same airfield.
“I am so proud of them, and to know what they started from,” Irving remarked, overjoyed at completing this full circle journey. Beyond technical skills, he prides himself on building confidence in students to realize their potential.
Miami Mayor Daniela Levine Cava attended the ceremony to underscore the school’s importance in developing local talent for high-demand aviation jobs. She congratulated the graduates on paving the way for more diverse representation.
Sparking Systemic Change in Aviation
Irving stressed that his graduates signing contracts with major companies proves the wealth of untapped talent if given equal access and belief.
By proving this model, he hopes BITTS inspires the aviation industry at large to rethink its hiring and training practices. If the exceptional training outcomes continue, the school could be a small step toward shifting the alarming statistic that less than 2% of commercial pilots are Black.
For now, Irving is focused on keeping his graduates soaring high, while fulfilling his passion for opening doors to those once told the sky’s the limit. His trailblazing journey around the world showed no dream is impossible with the right guidance and belief.
