Behind the Scenes with Delta Air Lines: A First-Class Job Shadow Experience for Travis ECHS Students

At Junior Achievement of Central Texas, we believe opportunity is for everyone—and that real-world experiences can spark lifelong inspiration. This year, students from Travis Early College High School’s Hospitality and Culinary program got a front-row seat to the world of aviation through an exclusive job shadow day hosted by Delta Air Lines

From the moment students stepped into the terminal, they were immersed in the customer experience—from checking in passengers to making real-time gate announcements. They explored how hospitality and professionalism take center stage at every step of the Delta journey. 

Students then toured the Delta Sky Club, where they saw how culinary service, comfort, and customer care create a luxury travel experience. Next, they explored LSG Group Sky Chefs, Inc., Austin meal prep behind the scenes, gaining insight into how Delta maintains quality and safety while feeding thousands of passengers daily. 

One of the highlights? Boarding an actual Delta aircraft and hearing firsthand from a Delta pilot about the responsibilities, training, and passion behind the controls. For many students, this was the first time stepping onto a plane—and it left a lasting impression. 

This hands-on experience gave students a unique perspective on the breadth of careers within the airline industry from culinary arts to customer service, operations, and aviation. 

We’re deeply grateful to Delta Air Lines for opening their doors and inspiring the next generation of hospitality leaders, chefs, and aviation professionals. Opportunities like this bring career pathways to life and empower students to dream big. 

Special thanks to the team at Delta- Katie Brown, Victoria Carr, Christin Jackson, Ira Mercado-Dixon, and all of the wonderful Delta employees that guided the students through the Job Shadow along with Delta’s broader unwavering support to create a high-flying, career-shaping experiences across Central Texas. 

#DeltaCares  #OpportunityIsForEveryone #WorkReady #HospitalityCareers #JAJobShadow