United Airlines is kicking off the school year with a significant investment in education, donating $1.25 million to the nonprofit organization DonorsChoose. This contribution will fund a variety of aviation and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) classroom projects across the United States.
This initiative marks the second year of United’s partnership with DonorsChoose. This year, the airline is tripling its support for aviation projects submitted by teachers in nine key markets: Chicago, Denver, Washington, D.C., New York, Houston, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and Hawaii. United is also committing to matching contributions for STEM projects at Equity Focus Schools, demonstrating a commitment to providing equitable educational opportunities.
Teachers in these participating cities are encouraged to submit their projects for funding consideration and can explore previously funded projects from 2023. “This program is a testament to United’s commitment to diversifying our workforce and removing barriers to STEM and aviation education and careers for underrepresented groups,” stated Helon Hammond, VP of Global Learning, People and Community Impact for United.
United’s commitment to STEM education stems from its own workforce, which includes nearly 100,000 employees in diverse STEM roles such as pilots, aviation maintenance technicians, flight dispatchers, and network planners. The airline views this initiative as a way to inspire future generations to pursue careers in these fields.
DonorsChoose, founded in 2000 by a high school teacher, has become a crucial resource for educators seeking support for classroom supplies. A 2024 survey by the organization revealed that teachers, on average, spend $610 of their own money on student supplies, with teachers of color and those at Equity Focus Schools facing particularly high costs. DonorsChoose addresses this financial burden by allowing public school teachers to request necessary classroom resources while supporters can contribute to fulfill those requests. The organization meticulously vets all project requests, purchases items directly, and ensures materials are shipped to verified teachers, ensuring every donation effectively supports educational needs.
“United Airlines is helping the new school year take off on a strong note,” said Alix Guerrier, CEO of DonorsChoose. “By directly funding DonorsChoose projects, United Airlines will fulfill ideas and programs that will inspire students to explore futures in aviation and STEM.”
United Airlines’ continued investment in DonorsChoose reflects a long-term commitment to education and professional development in STEM fields. This donation, coupled with the $1.25 million contributed last year, brings the airline’s total contributions to $2.5 million over the past two years. The airline’s dedication to education aims to inspire and empower future generations to explore careers in aviation and STEM.
