First Officer Jelani Kelley

Jelani Kelley is a Southeast-Michigan native who has had a lifelong interest in aviation. He attended Western Michigan University's (WMU) College of Aviation where he earned a bachelors of science degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology, and subsequently earned his Airframe and Powerplant ratings. During his time as a student at WMU, Jelani participated in the formation of a support group for minority students in aviation--the Multi-Cultural Association of Aviation Professionals. Through the OBAP and the newly formed student organiztion, Jelani has acted in various capacities at WMU's Aviation Career Enrichment camps and their equivalents. He still participates in camps as a guest speaker and mentors a number of WMU students.

In 2004 Jelani accepted an opportunity to act as a co-pilot for a small charter company. He worked concurrently as a Certified Flight Instructor and charter co-pilot until completing his degree in 2005. Jelani was hired in 2005 at Air Cargo Carriers to fly turboprops. He flew on various company contracts in support of DHL, UPS, and the U.S. military throughout the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. In 2007 he began working in the training department as a ground instructor, simulator instructor, and check airman. In 2009 Jelani accepted a position flying and managing a private jet based in Eastern Europe. During that period, he flew throughout the Middle East, Africa, and East and West Europe. Omni Air International (OAI) hired Jelani in summer 2010 as a First Officer on the 757/767. He currently works as a First Officer at FedEx Express.