Million Miles of Melanin

At MILLION MILES OF MELANIN, we believe the sky isn’t the limit—it’s only the beginning! 

MILLION MILES OF MELANIN (MMOM) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing diversity, representation, and opportunity in the aviation industry. Founded by aviation professionals with decades of combined experience, MILLION MILES OF MELANIN was born from a simple yet powerful belief: the sky should be open to everyone, regardless of race, gender, or background.

We know that representation changes possibilities. When young people see pilots, engineers, flight attendants, mechanics, and leaders who look like them, it sparks belief that they, too, can belong in those roles. But too often, barriers, whether financial, educational, or cultural—stand in the way. That’s where we come in.

OUR MISSION

MILLION MILES OF MELANIN exists to open doors for underrepresented youth and aspiring professionals, creating pathways from curiosity to career. We provide the tools, mentorship, resources, and exposure needed to help them not only enter aviation but also thrive in every part of the industry, from the flight deck to the hangar, from the control tower to the corporate boardroom.

WHAT WE DO

Through a combination of education, mentorship, and immersive experiences, we introduce students and professionals to the possibilities in aviation and aerospace. Our programs include:

• ✈️ Mentorship – Pairing participants with seasoned aviation professionals for guidance, career advice, and networking.
• ✈️ STEM-Based Education - Offering workshops, classes, and hands-on projects that strengthen technical skills and fuel curiosity.
• ✈️ Scholarships - Providing financial assistance to help cover training, certifications, and educational expenses.
• ✈️ Immersive Aviation Experiences - From flying drones and touring aircraft to attending industry events and job-shadowing professionals, we ensure our participants get real-world exposure to aviation careers.

WHY IT MATTERS

Aviation is one of the most dynamic and influential industries in the world, yet it remains one of the least diverse. By empowering the next generation with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed, we’re not only changing individual lives, we’re shaping the future of the industry itself. Diversity in aviation fuels innovation, strengthens safety, and creates a workforce that reflects the world it serves.

THE IMPACT OF YOUR SUPPORT

Every donation, partnership, and volunteer hour directly impacts our ability to reach more students, provide more scholarships, and deliver more life-changing experiences. Together with our supporters, we’ve already created opportunities for students to take their first flights, tour professional aircraft, connect with industry mentors, and envision futures they once thought impossible.

OUR VISION

We envision an aviation industry where talent, dedication, and passion not background, determine success. A future where every aspiring aviator, regardless of where they start, has the chance to soar.

MILLION MILES OF MELANIN is more than an organization, it’s a movement. And with your support, we’re ensuring that the next generation of aviators not only takes flight but takes their rightful place among the leaders, innovators, and trailblazers of tomorrow.