Air Canada partner introduces educational assistance benefit

Air Canada partner Air Georgian Ltd. is introducing a tuition assistance program to invest in the learning and development of its workforce.

“A well-rounded education coupled with continuous learning is important for the success of our organization and our employees,” said Eric Edmondson, president and chief executive officer of Air Georgian, in a news release.

The new benefit provides employees with financial assistance for approved educational courses and programs, as well as paid time off to pursue them or accommodations for a reduced work schedule. “Reduced work schedules will be accommodated on a case-by-case basis,” noted a spokesperson. ”The union would be involved in these discussions for unionized employees.”
 
Employees will also be reimbursed up to $5,000 per year in tuition costs for approved degree programs and certifications and professional memberships, and up to $10,000 per year for advanced degrees, including master’s degrees, MBAs and PhDs.
 
Air Georgian pilots are also guaranteed an interview with Air Canada through its pilot mobility agreement once they meet the minimum hiring requirements. The airline notes 100 pilots will be moved over to Air Canada in 2018. 
 
“As Air Canada values post-secondary education, the new tuition assistance program helps Air Georgian pilots be the best candidates possible for the Air Canada recruitment process,” according to the news release.