The primary objective of the project was to develop an empowering digital learning platform (The NextGenATM-www.nextgenatm.org) with the aim of equipping the next generation of air transport managers with future industry needs. In line with this main goal, the specific objectives were as follows: (1) Empowering young individuals through digital learning, (2) Strengthening employability of youth with online courses and innovative learning elements such as AvEx Talks, PreCoN tasks, (3) Fostering collaborations skills of youth by encouraging teamwork and communication through PreCoN, (4) Bridging young people and air transport experts through AvEx Talks. Aligned with these objectives, the project aimed to minimize skill gaps between EU youth, educational institutions, and the aviation industry. Young individuals' expectations, current situations, and feedback were considered at every step, actively involving them in the project. This ensured that the NextGenATM digital learning platform not only fulfilled the essential expectations of all stakeholders, with a particular emphasis on the youth, but also, by actively involving young individuals in the platform's development, empowered them to take ownership of the platform.
In today's aviation industry, there is a transformation in the skills required by the workforce, driven by emerging technologies and sustainability policies. One of the key stakeholders that needs to adapt to this transformation is the current generation of young individuals who will be employed in the future aviation industry. Numerous initiatives, both at the international and national levels, such as the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals (NGAP) program launched by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), strive to equip young people with the 21st-century skills. In this perspective, the NextGenATM project has developed a supportive digital learning platform (www.nextgenatm.org) to provide the next generation of air transport managers with managerial skills aligned with the transformation requirements of the industry. Addressing challenges in accessing formal aviation management education, the NextGenATM is a free digital platform, fostering inclusivity for all young learners. The NextGenATM also introduces an informal learning environment, considering the evolving learning habits of youth and including new learning elements such as collaborative youth tasks and aviation expert talks.