By Landon Cheben | Breakturn Podcast Recap
In a recent BreakTurn podcast episode, we had the opportunity to sit down at Delta’s Atlanta headquarters with two key leaders from Delta Professional Services (DPS): Rochelle Kanianthra, the General Manager of Atlanta Operations, and Jim Leonard, a Marine Corps veteran and longtime Delta pilot who now leads simulator and academic instruction for DPS. The conversation covered everything from the basics of the Airline Transport Pilot Certification Training Program (ATP-CTP), to the unique ways DPS supports veterans transitioning to airline careers.
Delta Professional Services is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Delta Air Lines, operating as a premier training and standards organization that provides flight operations support across the airline industry. DPS instructors are seasoned aviation professionals—many with decades of experience—who contribute to simulator instruction, curriculum development, and operational planning. While Delta is their primary client, DPS also supports other airlines with a variety of specialized training and staffing services.
A major focus of our conversation was on the ATP-CTP course, which is required by the FAA for anyone pursuing their Airline Transport Pilot license. This course is the gateway for military and civilian aviators alike to enter the world of Part 121 airline operations. The program spans seven days, beginning with four full days of intensive classroom instruction, followed by three days in a full-motion simulator. These sessions are designed to bridge the knowledge gap between general aviation, military, or corporate flying and the high-demand environment of commercial airlines. Topics include meteorology, CRM, airline-specific procedures, and high-altitude aerodynamics, culminating in hands-on exposure to complex scenarios like windshear recovery, TCAS resolution, and high-altitude stalls. Importantly, the course is structured to be low-pressure and non-evaluative. Instructors focus on conceptual understanding rather than performance grading, creating an ideal learning environment—especially for those transitioning from the military.
One major benefit of the DPS course is its flexibility and value. Students receive up to 10 hours of simulator time in FAA-approved full-flight devices, which count toward the ATP requirement of 50 multi-engine hours—25 of which can be simulator time. DPS goes out of its way to ensure that students who need additional hours are accommodated, often providing the full 10 hours if the student is short on multi-engine time. Additionally, students receive a voucher for Sheppard Air test prep and for the FAA ATP knowledge exam, covering the full cost of both.
What truly sets DPS apart, however, is the immersive exposure to Delta’s culture and operations. Classes are held on Delta’s main campus in Atlanta, where students are invited to tour areas like the Operations and Customer Center and the flight attendant training facilities. Each class receives briefings from Delta flight operations leaders and is guided through the recruiting process and even the pilot interview location—giving students the chance to visualize their future in the industry. For many, this experience serves as an invaluable sneak peek into what a career at Delta would actually look like, long before any formal application is submitted.
Another major advantage for veterans is DPS’s support for GI Bill benefits. According to Rochelle, roughly 30% of students use the GI Bill to cover the cost of the course, and DPS has a full-time VA liaison dedicated to making the process seamless. Whether it’s submitting the right paperwork or walking students through reimbursement timelines, DPS ensures that no one is left in the dark when it comes to navigating their benefits. The program’s cost, $4,995, is fully covered under the GI Bill, and includes all instruction, simulator time, test prep, and testing fees (though not lodging or travel).
Instructors at DPS bring an unparalleled level of experience. Most have been with the airlines for decades and held senior instructional or evaluation roles—including line check airmen and APDs. They aren’t there to grade or assess; rather, they’re there to mentor. As Jim described, the instructional environment at DPS is the opposite of high-stakes airline training. It’s hands-on, relaxed, and designed to spark curiosity and confidence, not stress.
Perhaps the most exciting part of the podcast was the announcement of two ATP-CTP scholarships being offered in partnership with the BreakTurn Foundation. These scholarships, valued at nearly $5,000 each, will be awarded during the BreakTurn Mixer at RTAG on October 10. The initiative was spearheaded by DPS—not at our request, but at theirs. Jerry, a DPS team member and advocate for veterans, reached out to offer the scholarships as a way to give back to the veteran community. The scholarships are available to veterans or former host nation partners, and recipients must be present at the Mixer to win. Winners will receive the full course and benefits, including simulator time and test prep access.
As we discussed during the podcast, timing is key when deciding when to attend ATP-CTP. Rochelle noted that the sweet spot is typically between 800 and 1,400 hours of total time. Being closer to airline eligibility ensures that the simulator experience is more meaningful and that the hiring guidance provided during the course is timely and applicable. However, the ATP-CTP certificate never expires, so completing it early is still a smart move for those planning ahead.
DPS stands out as a training partner not only for its curriculum, but for its culture. Students leave with more than just a certificate—they leave with a deeper understanding of the industry, an insider’s view of Delta, a letter of recommendation (if applying to Delta), and a professional network built from instructors who genuinely care. Whether you’re a military aviator preparing for your next mission in the civilian world or a civilian pilot climbing the ladder toward the airlines, DPS offers an unmatched environment for professional growth.
To learn more, visit the Delta Professional Services website at DPS Aviation Services or simply search “DPS ATPCTP” online. You can also access a direct link through the BreakTurn Academy at app.breakturn.com under Resources.
If you’re a veteran, now is the time to act. Whether you’re just curious about what’s next or you’re ready to start building your airline career, DPS has the tools, instructors, and commitment to help you succeed.