InterCaribbean Airways CEO Lyndon Gardiner Partners With UWI for Aviation Management Degree Program

The founder and CEO of interCaribbean Airways, Lyndon Gardiner, has highlighted his airline’s partnership with the University of the West Indies (UWI) Cave Hill Campus to offer a first-ever aviation management degree as a move to bolster the aviation industry.

Gardiner, who was the guest speaker at the UWI’s 20th Annual Student Awards Ceremony, stressed the importance of aiming to nurture future aviation leaders.

“By combining expertise, we can set new standards in aviation excellence, sustainability, and regional integration,” he told the student audience. “Our partnership with UWI underscores our shared commitment to elevating Caribbean aviation and ensuring it is equipped to meet future challenges and opportunities.”

Turks and Caicos-based InterCaribbean Airways is granting annual scholarships to UWI students, as well as internship opportunities specifically for those enrolled in the specialised aviation programme.

“We’re paving the way for a future where every island, every community, and every individual is connected – not just by flights, but by shared dreams,” Gardiner said, emphasising the transformative potential of the collaboration. “The possibilities are endless when education and innovation intersect understanding aviation’s broad impact on tourism, trade, sustainability, and regional development.”

Pro-Vice Chancellor and Cave Hill Principal, Professor R Clive Landis, praised Gardiner’s generosity and the impact of corporate scholarships in fostering diversity and inclusivity.

“A university education at Cave Hill serves as a catalyst for personal and professional growth. Your investment in their education is an investment in the future of our society,” Professor Landis told Gardiner while urging students to pay it forward and uphold the spirit of benevolence.

The new aviation degree programme, backed by Gardiner’s philanthropic support, aims to cultivate a cadre of skilled professionals equipped to navigate the changing face of the region’s aviation industry, he said.

“I commend UWI for its foresight in developing this programme,” the airline boss declared. “Together, we aim to nurture the next generation of aviation professionals – not just pilots, but leaders who have aspirations and are prepared for the years ahead.”

He added that this milestone reflects the power of collaboration between industry and academia.

Gardiner began his speech by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate the exceptional achievements of the honoured students.