Captain Barrington Irving, who made history as the first Black and youngest pilot to fly solo around the world at just 23 years old, has now taken another monumental step in shaping the future of aviation. He’s founded the Barrington Irving Technical Training School in Miami, Florida, with a mission to empower aspiring pilots, particularly people of color, by providing the skills and training needed to succeed in the aviation industry.
In partnership with organizations like NBAA, Miami-Dade County, the Miami-Dade Aviation Department, Atlantic Aviation, and Bombardier, Irving opened the school in 2022. The professional and technical training center is located in South Florida, and its aim is to create a diverse pool of students from local, national, and international backgrounds, with a focus on various disciplines within business aviation. The school promises innovative programs, hands-on training, and specialized certifications that will give students the edge they need to excel in the industry.
In just its first year, the Barrington Irving Technical Training School celebrated a major milestone: 15 students successfully completed the program and secured jobs in the aviation field. The graduation ceremony, held at Opa-locka Airport in Miami, was especially meaningful for Irving, as it’s the same airport where his own aviation journey began.
This school is more than just a training center—it’s a stepping stone for the next generation of pilots and aviation professionals. Irving’s vision is clear: to create opportunities and foster diversity within the aviation industry, ensuring that future pilots and technicians, regardless of background, can soar to new heights.
