DuPage Flight Center Inspired Future Aviation Leaders at the Tuskegee NEXT 2024 Red Tail Ball

DuPage Flight Center, a Phillips 66®branded FBO in West Chicago, Illinois (KDPA), hosted the Tuskegee NEXT 2024 Red Tail Ball, supporting underrepresented youth pursuing aviation careers. This prestigious annual event, held in the stunning 32,000-square-foot hangar of DuPage Flight Center, celebrated the achievements of the Tuskegee NEXT graduating class and underscored the organization's commitment to fostering diversity within the aviation industry.

“It’s a tremendous honor for us at DuPage Flight Center to honor and support Tuskegee NEXT and celebrate the achievements of the 2024 graduating class,” said Brian DeCoudres, General Manager, DuPage Flight Center. “Witnessing these young aviators take their next steps toward their dreams is incredibly rewarding. We are deeply committed to empowering these future leaders with the tools and opportunities they need to excel. Their success is a testament to the spirit of innovation and perseverance that we cherish in the aviation community.”

The 7th Annual Red Tail Ball was a momentous occasion where the Tuskegee NEXT 2024 graduating class was honored with their flight certificates. While celebrating the legacy of the U.S. military’s “Top Gun” program and recognizing the accomplishments of the cadets, more than 600 guests helped raise over one million dollars to support aviation scholarships. This funding enables Tuskegee NEXT to offer premier outreach programs for underrepresented youth. These programs provide comprehensive support, including flight training, life skills, leadership development and educational assistance programs to help these young individuals obtain pilot licenses and begin careers in aviation.

The DuPage Flight Center has maintained a strong partnership with Tuskegee NEXT, an initiative founded in 2015 by the chair of the DuPage Airport Authority alongside strategic partners. The program honors the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen of World War II by training at-risk youth annually as pilots and aviation professionals. Since its inception, 78 young adults will have completed the intensive 8- to 10-week residential program. The Illinois Aviation Academy, located at DuPage Airport, plays a critical role in the training and preparation of these cadets, helping them earn a private pilot's license and drone certification at no cost.

“Congratulations to the 2024 Tuskegee NEXT class. We have no doubt that you will soar to new heights and make a significant impact in the skies. Your journey is just beginning, and the future of aviation is brighter because of you,” said Sunny Lopez, Manager, Phillips 66 Aviation. “As advocates for advancing the next generation of aviation leaders, it is inspiring to see our Phillips 66® branded FBOs leading initiatives that nurture and develop young talent. Such efforts are crucial for shaping the future leaders of our industry.”