The Private Public Partnership Office (P3O) Director, the Commanding General of U.S. Army Reserve Aviation Command (ARAC), and the Director of United Calibrate signed a Partnership Proclamation on November 15th here at Willis Tower (formerly known as Sears Tower).

Signers in attendance were Ms. Alecia Grady (P3O Director), Brig. Gen. Roger Deon (CG ARAC) and Scott Ferris (United Director of Calibrate Division). Also in attendance were staffers from Illinois Senators Duckworth and Durbin’s office.

United announced the launch of the Calibrate Technician Pathway Program, giving U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers a direct pathway to careers as technicians at the airline. This new Partnership supports the airline's United Next growth plan – where the airline expects to take delivery of 800 new aircraft between 2023 and 2032. United plans to hire thousands of technicians by 2026 to support all the new planes entering the fleet at its 42 domestic Technical Operations stations.

Speaking at the P3O event was Simone Drakes, Managing Director of Calibrate Division. "Investments in new aircraft and facilities require that we also increase our pipeline of maintenance technicians that will ensure our expansive fleet, facilities, and equipment are safely and efficiently maintained,” said Drakes.

Brig. Gen. Deon explained that United currently employs about 50 USAR Service Members as pilots and technicians and that such a Partnership benefits both United and the readiness of the Army.

About P3O

P3O ensures Army Reserve soldiers succeed in their civilian careers, benefiting the Army and the nation by bringing substantial value and depth to the force. More than 85% of the force integrates military service with civilian careers, providing the Army with professional skills, education, and expertise acquired in the private sector. Through collaboration with organizations offering job opportunities and a nationwide network of corporate, profit/non-profit, and academic partners, the Army Reserve's Private Public Partnership Office is increasing its efforts to connect soldiers with internship, employment, and education opportunities. P3O is leveraging technology, management tools, social networking platforms, and hiring events to connect soldiers and families with employment opportunities.    For more information on P3O, visit www.usar.army.mil/p3/.