Implementing DEI in Aviation Education: Coping and Addressing Mental Health Concerns

In recent years, different global events have led to increased awareness of the benefits of promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and education.  Notably, the aviation industry is seeing increased research initiatives to promote DEI among all generations.  Nevertheless, given the rising concerns about mental health in higher education, this paper sought to connect coping and addressing mental health through implementing DEI teachings in aviation education.  Integrating DEI in the aviation classroom can be challenging, as many faculty members might feel uncomfortable addressing the topic in their courses.  Consequently, the researchers proposed and tested an aviation education approach incorporating Talking, Teaching, Tools, and Taking Care to facilitate the capstone course for graduating seniors in Aeronautical Science.  Therefore, this research focused on incorporating mental health into teaching diversity, equity, and inclusion in aviation education through research-based practices.