Denver Airport launches groundbreaking Equity & Excellence Center

Thursday, December 14, 2023

Denver Airport recently initiated the groundbreaking of the Center of Equity and Excellence in Aviation (CEEA). This pioneering training center is designed to cultivate a diverse talent pool in aviation, focusing particularly on underrepresented groups, businesses historically not fully utilized, people of color, and women. CEEA’s mission is to promote generational wealth creation and establish career paths in aviation, while also acting as a hub for innovation that impacts the global community.

Denver Mayor Mike Johnston highlighted Denver Airport ‘s significant contribution to Colorado’s economy, generating over $36 billion and supporting over 220,000 jobs. He praised the efforts of DEN CEO Phil Washington and his team for championing opportunities in aviation, especially for minority-owned businesses. Johnston emphasized that such inclusive initiatives will ensure long-term prosperity for both Denver and DEN.

CEEA plays a crucial role in fostering a skilled workforce for Colorado’s aviation industry. The training facility is poised to inspire other airports worldwide. As Denver expands, the focus remains on meeting the needs of underrepresented and younger generations, ensuring that equity, diversity, and inclusion are prioritized.

Part of the Great Hall Program, CEEA will occupy approximately 38,000 square feet on Level 4 of the hotel and transit center, beneath the Westin Hotel. The centerpiece is the Hall of Equity, capable of hosting around 300 people for training and educational events. Additional lecture halls and training rooms will cater to another 200-300 people. A pre-function area and lobby, complete with a café, will facilitate networking and small meetings.

This project enables DEN and Denver to nurture its aviation workforce, support small and minority businesses, and lead in aviation research and innovation.

DEN CEO Phil Washington stated that CEEA aims to set the industry standard in developing aviation talent. CEEA is dedicated to providing access for underrepresented individuals and businesses to the aviation sector, nurturing future leaders. The center will offer comprehensive programs for employee training and support minority-owned small businesses.

Even as construction progresses, DEN has launched CEEA’s programming, offering diverse training and development opportunities. These include:

1. Business Development Training Academy: This program equips small businesses with the necessary skills and support to excel at DEN, focusing on construction, professional services, goods and services, and concessions. So far, nearly 60 businesses have graduated, with more programming planned for 2024.
2. Career Pathways: This initiative aims to build a pipeline of aviation talent through progressive training models, attracting and retaining current and future workforce members. Opportunities for students include the Denver Airport Academy, internships, tours, and more. Current employees also have access to training aimed at developing future aviation industry leaders.
3. Research and Innovation Lab: Situated within CEEA, this lab partners with local colleges and universities for aviation research, identifying best practices and innovating with new and existing technology. The focus is also on hosting speakers and lecturers to discuss current and future aviation trends and leadership.

Studio Completiva leads CEEA’s design, with construction by Sky Blue Builders, providing both firms significant growth opportunities.

The Great Hall Program, of which CEEA is a part, aims to boost security, operational efficiency, and passenger experience at the airport. It includes the construction of new state-of-the-art security checkpoints, ticketing lobbies, and a new meeter/greeter space at the south end of Level 5.

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