FedEx mentioned Tuesday it is partnering with eight traditionally Black schools and universities (HBCUs) to construct a pipeline of logistics and provide chain professionals.

The Memphis, Tennessee, transport big is launching the Pupil Ambassador Program on March 1 at Mississippi Valley State College, Jackson State College, Fayetteville State College, LeMoyne-Owen School, Lane School, Tennessee State College, Paul Quinn School and Miles School. 

FedEx President and Chief Working Officer Raj Subramaniam mentioned it is a part of an ongoing commitment to HBCUs, together with a $5 million donation in 2021.

“Our relationship with HBCUs started greater than 20 years in the past, and we’re constantly working to develop initiatives and alternatives that create optimistic outcomes for college kids and college. The Pupil Ambassador Program is but one other approach we’re persevering with to put money into these historic establishments as we construct a greater future, collectively,” Subramaniam instructed CNBC.

The inaugural class of 16 college students will meet commonly with FedEx executives for perception, profession steerage and mentorship. Whereas logistics might be part of the curriculum, FedEx mentioned the broader focus might be to teach the scholars for careers after school.

Mississippi Valley State sophomore Zapouria Wadley is majoring in communications however sees this system as a chance to discover ways to navigate the company world.

“I am simply grateful for the chance. I am being uncovered to the world of labor and seeing within this firm,” Wadley instructed CNBC. “You by no means know what this chance would possibly result in! I am open to studying all I can and networking as a lot as attainable.”

Mississippi Valley State President Jerryl Briggs mentioned the publicity to a world firm like FedEx is priceless.

“We all know the availability chain is booming and I do consider this is a crucial trade to show our college students to. However I additionally suppose the understanding of how a Fortune 500 firm actually works and what it has to supply, the connection and mentorship alternatives. I believe all that’s essential even when a scholar decides to enter a unique space,” Briggs instructed CNBC.

United Parcel Service can be growing its outreach to HBCUs. The Atlanta-based transport big gives monetary help by means of its basis for the United Negro School Fund, now often called UNCF, and the Thurgood Marshall School Fund. UPS has additionally developed a partnership with six HBCUs for on-campus recruiting.