Fuel & Flow: Morning Movement & Nutrition

7:00 AM - 8:00 AM

Fuel & Flow is designed to help attendees start the day energized, grounded, and ready to perform at their best. Each one-hour session begins with an uplifting movement experience led by Olivia Stancil, Zumba Instructor, followed by practical wellness and nutrition guidance from DaiJa Lewis, certified personal trainer, and nutrition expert. Attendees will explore sustainable wellness strategies focused on balanced nutrition, maintaining energy and focus under pressure, and building healthy habit

Registration Open

8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Check in or register on-site.

Ascension Program Track | Presented by FedEx Express and UPS

8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Designed for college students, recent graduates, and early-career professionals, the Ascension Track connects participants with recruiters, industry leaders, and career-building opportunities. Through focused workshops, networking, and professional development sessions, attendees will gain the skills, insights, and connections needed to launch and grow careers in aviation and aerospace.

VIP Welcome

8:00 AM

VIP Passholders will kick off Conference week and connect with OBAP and American Airlines leaders over a continental breakfast.

Opening Ceremony | Presented by American Airlines

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Mark the start of the 2026 OBAP Annual Conference, presented by American Airlines, during this celebratory opening ceremony.

Exhibit Hall Open

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

The Briefing: A C-Suite Conversation on the State of Aviation

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

The Briefing brings together senior aviation leaders for a candid conversation about the future of aerospace and the leadership required to navigate it. Through honest discussion and audience engagement, executives will share insights on industry growth, workforce development, representation, and the evolving talent pipeline. This session creates meaningful connections between today’s leaders and the next generation shaping the future of flight.

R.E.A.C.H.: The Human Performance Breakthrough Aviation Needs for the Next 50 Years

10:15 - 10:45 AM

Part of the New Horizons Series, this session explores how human performance impacts safety, leadership, and readiness across aviation. Keith “Duke” Davis, Founder and CEO of AffirmedYou, will introduce the R.E.A.C.H. framework and share neuroscience-based, AI-enabled strategies to combat fatigue, burnout, and cognitive overload. Attendees will gain practical tools to strengthen resilience, improve decision-making under pressure, and support long-term career success.

The Role of HBCUs in Aviation

10:45 - 11:15 AM

Part of the New Horizons Series, this session explores how HBCUs can help shape the future workforce of the National Airspace System. Led by Timothy O. Johnson of Hampton University, attendees will learn how institutions can become strategic workforce partners across aviation, air traffic control, and aerospace. The session highlights strategies for building talent pipelines, aligning education with industry needs, and creating pathways to internships, career opportunities, and success.

Hall of Fame Celebration Luncheon | Presented by American Airlines

12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Celebrate the 50th Anniversary OBAP Pioneer Hall of Fame inductees during this luncheon. Exhibit hall closed.

Exhibit Hall Reopens

2:00 PM

United Airlines Hiring Session

2:00 - 2:45 PM

Power in Practice: Owning Our Influence in 2026 and Beyond

2:30 - 4:00 PM

Power in Practice is a candid conversation about leadership, influence, and building lasting impact in a changing professional landscape. Moving from discussion to action, panelists will explore how Black aerospace professionals can navigate change, advocate effectively, and help shape the future of the industry. Through honest dialogue and practical insight, attendees will gain strategies for career growth, coalition-building, and creating sustainable influence.

Built Different: Showing Up and Standing Out | Presented by Spitfire Elite

2:30 - 4:00 PM

Success in aviation requires more than technical skill. In this dynamic session, the team from Spitfire Elite shares practical strategies for standing out in interviews, networking opportunities, and other high-stakes professional settings. Attendees will learn how to build confidence, communicate their value, and navigate career opportunities with intention. Whether pursuing a first role or the next step in their career, participants will gain tools to compete at the next level.

State of Mind: Real Talk, Real Tools for Mental Health | Presented by Delta Air Lines

2:30 - 4:00 PM

State of Mind is a candid conversation about mental wellness in aerospace and the unique pressures facing Black professionals in high-performance environments. Moderated by Theodore W. Johnson, this panel explores resilience, burnout, identity, and sustainable success through the perspectives of leaders across aviation, mental health, and higher education. Attendees will leave with practical tools, resources, and strategies to support long-term well-being.

The Regional Runway: Regional Airline Career Opportunities | Presented by PSA Airlines

2:30 - 4:00 PM

Regional Runway provides an inside look at careers in regional aviation. Featuring leaders from across the industry, this panel explores opportunities in flight operations, maintenance, dispatch, HR, finance, and more. Designed for students, early-career professionals, career changers, and furloughed aviation professionals, the session offers practical insight into hiring trends, career growth, and how to stand out in today’s aviation landscape.

NTSB Presentation

3:15 - 4:00 PM

At This Altitude: A Keynote Conversation with Dr. Michael Eric Dyson | Presented by Southwest Airlines

4:30 – 6:00 PM

At This Altitude opens the 50th Conference with a keynote conversation featuring Michael Eric Dyson and Sierra Grimes. Together, they will explore leadership, resilience, achievement, and the realities Black professionals navigate in high-performance industries. Blending personal reflection and cultural insight, this conversation sets the tone for the conference while challenging attendees to think beyond individual success and toward the future of aerospace and the communities it serves.

Exhibit Hall Closes

5:00 PM

VIP Happy Hour with Dr. Michael Eric Dyson

6:00 – 7:00 PM

VIP Passholders enjoy happy hour and connect with keynote speaker, Dr. Michael Eric Dyson.

Scholarship Reception | Presented by Delta Air Lines

6:00 – 7:30 PM

OBAP celebrates 2026 scholarship recipients during this invite-only reception.

UA1976: Cleared for Soul presented by United Airlines

7:00 – 9:00 PM

Now boarding flight 1976! Cleared for Soul is OBAP’s 50th Anniversary welcome reception. An evening rooted in the spirit of the founders, soaked in the sounds and style of an era that changed everything. The 70s gave us our most iconic music, our boldest fashion, and some of our most powerful movements. It also gave us OBAP. So come dressed for the decade. Wide lapels and bell bottoms. Dashikis and afros. Platforms and paisley. Dress Code: 70s Soul Era. Bold. Beautiful. Unapologetically Black.

Fuel & Flow: Morning Movement & Nutrition

7:00 AM - 8:00 AM

Fuel & Flow helps attendees start the day energized, focused, and ready to perform at their best. Each session features an uplifting movement experience led by Olivia Stancil, followed by practical wellness and nutrition guidance from certified personal trainer and nutrition expert DaiJa Lewis. Attendees will learn sustainable strategies for boosting energy, maintaining focus, and building healthy habits that support long-term success.

Registration Open

8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Check in or register on-site.

Ascension Program Track | Presented by FedEx Express and UPS

8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Designed for college students, recent graduates, and early-career professionals, the Ascension Track provides direct access to industry leaders, recruiters, and career development opportunities. Through workshops, networking, and professional development sessions, participants will gain the skills, knowledge, and connections needed to launch and grow a successful career in aviation and aerospace.

Youth Day Experience | Presented by United Airlines

7:30 AM - 3:00 PM

OBAP’s Youth Day Experience introduces middle and high school students to the exciting world of aerospace through hands-on activities, inspiring speakers, and interactive exhibits. Participants meet aviation professionals, explore career paths, and take part in STEM-focused learning designed to spark curiosity and fuel future ambitions. It’s a day of discovery that shows students what’s possible, and how to get there.

OBAP Member General Meeting | Presented by UPS

9:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Join us for the OBAP General Member Meeting presented by UPS. Hear key updates from OBAP leadership, celebrate organizational milestones, and learn how you can stay engaged and make an impact. All members are encouraged to attend and be part of shaping OBAP’s future.

Exhibit Hall Opens

10:00 AM

United Airlines Hiring Session

10:15 AM

Delta Air Lines Hiring Session

11:15 AM

Exhibit Hall Closes

12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Youth Day Celebration Luncheon | Presented by United Airlines

12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Celebrate youth achievement during this annual luncheon.

Exhibit Hall Tour — Youth Day participants only

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Cleared for Takeoff: Leading with Purpose at Every Altitude

2:30 - 4:00 PM

Cleared for Takeoff is an interactive leadership workshop led by executive coach Yolanda Green Barnes. Designed for professionals at every career stage, the session explores how to build influence, strengthen executive presence, and lead effectively in high-performance environments. Through practical exercises and real-world examples, attendees will gain actionable strategies to elevate their impact, visibility, and leadership effectiveness.

Maximizing Your Airline Benefits | Presented by Aviation Retirement Strategies, LLC

2:30 - 4:00 PM

Navigating a pilot’s financial future can be just as complex as navigating the skies. In this informative session, former airline pilot and financial advisor Alex A. Tapia, AIF®, shares practical guidance on compensation, retirement planning, investing, and long-term wealth strategies tailored to aviation professionals.

Pressure Check: Protecting Your Heart. Sustaining Your Performance

2:30 - 4:00 PM

Peak performance starts with good health. Join board-certified anesthesiologist and public health advocate Dr. Kendra Outler for a practical conversation on heart health, stress management, and career longevity in aerospace. Learn how to recognize the warning signs of chronic stress, improve cardiovascular wellness, navigate conversations with your FAA-certified physician, and build habits that support long-term performance.

Engineering the Future: Innovation, Intelligence & the Next Era of Aerospace | Presented by Delta Air Lines

2:30 - 4:00 PM

Engineering the Future brings together leaders from aviation, engineering, and advanced technology to discuss how AI, automation, predictive maintenance, and emerging technologies are reshaping aerospace. Moderated by Lillian Dukes, this session offers practical insight into evolving workforce needs, critical skills, and leadership opportunities, helping attendees understand where the industry is headed and how to thrive in its future.

Exhibit Hall Open to Attendees

3:00 PM

Board of Advisors Meeting

3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Flight Attendant Panel

3:15 – 3:45 PM

Attendee Group Photo

4:00 PM

Come in uniform for our annual group photo!

Exhibit Hall Closes

5:00 PM

In-Flight Professionals Mixer

5:00 - 6:30 PM

The In-Flight Professionals Mixer connects aspiring and current aviation professionals with leaders from across the cabin experience industry. The evening features a candid panel of flight attendants sharing insights on career growth, lifestyle, leadership, and success in the profession. Attendees will also have the opportunity to network with recruiters, hiring leaders, and industry professionals while building valuable connections and exploring career opportunities.

Maintenance & Engineering Mixer | Presented by Delta Air Lines

5:30 - 6:30 PM

Connect with the professionals powering the future of aviation at the Maintenance & Engineering Mixer, presented by Delta Air Lines. This networking event brings together technicians, engineers, technical operations leaders, students, and emerging professionals for an evening of connection and conversation. Explore career opportunities, expand your network, and engage with the people driving innovation, safety, and excellence across aerospace maintenance and engineering.

OBAP Legacy Premiere Cocktail Hour

6:00 - 7:00 PM

Before the documentary premiere, join fellow attendees, industry leaders, and special guests for a cocktail hour celebrating 50 years of OBAP’s legacy, leadership, and impact. With cocktails, conversation, and reflection, this gathering honors the pioneers who helped shape aerospace while setting the stage for a powerful tribute to OBAP’s remarkable journey. Dress Code: Red Carpet Casual. Be comfortable, camera-ready, and prepared for your close-up.

OBAP Legacy Documentary Premiere | Presented by American Airlines

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Experience the story of a movement that changed aerospace forever. The OBAP Legacy Documentary Premiere, presented by American Airlines, celebrates 50 years of leadership, resilience, and impact. Through powerful storytelling, archival footage, and reflections from the pioneers and leaders who shaped the organization, the film honors OBAP’s legacy while celebrating the generations continuing to move the industry forward.

Spitfire Social 2026

8 PM - Unitl

Join Spitfire Elite for an exclusive social event celebrating OBAP's 50th Anniversary at Vu Rooftop Lounge. Visit their website for tickets: https://www.events.spitfireelite.com/obap

Fuel & Flow: Morning Movement & Nutrition

7:00 AM - 8:00 AM

Fuel & Flow helps attendees start the day energized, focused, and ready to perform at their best. Each session features an uplifting movement experience led by Olivia Stancil, followed by practical wellness and nutrition guidance from certified personal trainer and nutrition expert DaiJa Lewis. Attendees will learn sustainable strategies for boosting energy, maintaining focus, and building healthy habits that support long-term success.

Cleared for Takeoff: Aviation Community Career Day | Presented by GoJet Airlines and Envoy Air

8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Local community members will connect with aviation and aerospace employers, build professional skills, and explore new career opportunities at this interactive community career event. Featuring networking, resume reviews, mock interviews, workshops, and direct access to industry professionals, Cleared for Takeoff is designed to help attendees launch their next chapter in aviation.

Ascension Program Track | Presented by FedEx Express and UPS

8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Designed for college students, recent graduates, and early-career professionals, the Ascension Track provides direct access to industry leaders, recruiters, and career development opportunities. Through workshops, networking, and professional development sessions, participants will gain the skills, knowledge, and connections needed to launch and grow a successful career in aviation and aerospace.

Registration Open

9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Check in or register on-site.

The Legacy Lives On: Celebrating 50 Years of OBAP | Presented by Delta Air Lines

9:30 – 11:00 AM

Join OBAP founding members and early leaders for a conversation reflecting on the organization’s 50-year journey. From expanding access and representation to creating opportunities across aerospace, this session offers a rare chance to hear directly from the pioneers who shaped OBAP’s legacy. Through personal stories and reflections, panelists will discuss the progress achieved, the challenges that remain, and the responsibility of carrying the mission forward.

Exhibit Hall Opens

10:00 AM

Delta Air Lines Hiring Session

11:15 AM - 12:00 PM

OBAP Membership Celebration Luncheon | Presented by United Airlines

12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

The Member Celebration Luncheon is a time to honor the heart of OBAP, our dedicated members. This inspiring midday event brings our community together to reflect on the year's achievements, recognize outstanding contributions, and celebrate the legacy we’re building together.

12:00 – 1:00 PM

Exhibit Hall Closes

Exhibit Hall Tour Aviation Community Career Day

1:00 – 2:00 PM

American Airlines Conditional Job Offer (CJO) Session | Presented by American Airlines

2:00 PM

Exhibit Hall Closes

3:00 PM

Pre-Gala Reception | Presented by American Airlines

5:30 PM - 6:30

Gather in glitz and glam for a festive cocktail hour prior to our Annual Awards Gala.

OBAP 50th Anniversary Awards Gala | Presented by American Airlines

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

The OBAP Awards Gala is the pinnacle event of the conference; an elegant evening honoring excellence, leadership, and legacy in aerospace. This black-tie masquerade celebration recognizes individuals and organizations whose outstanding contributions have advanced OBAP’s mission and elevated the industry.