Generally, no specific formal training is required in order to obtain a job as a flight attendant. Training is usually done in accordance with the airline's FAA approved training program after hire. When hiring flight attendants, airlines look for at least a high school diploma but a bachelor's degree is preferred. Some colleges offer degrees that focus on prospective flight attendants, but successful graduates still need to undergo the airline's approved training course. Airlines also put a lot of emphasis on those with experience in the service industry or other customer service experience.
Higher Power Aviation (HPA) is a Dallas-based training provider that offers numerous aviation programs. While most of HPA's training programs revolve around pilot training, HPA also has a flight attendant program available. Though the training is tailored towards airlines or corporate flight departments that outsource their training, individuals may also enroll in the course. Since HPA also trains pilots, the school offers joint emergency training involving pilots and flight attendants together. Graduates of the program go on to work for airlines and corporate flight departments.
Southwest Airlines is a Dallas-based low-cost airline that employs over 35,000 employees including thousands of flight attendants. All pilot and flight attendant training is conducted in accordance with its FAA approved training program at its facility at the Dallas Love Field airport, near the company's corporate headquarters.
American Airlines is another large airline based in Dallas that operates its own large training facility just south of Dallas-Ft Worth International Airport. Opened in 1957 as a Stewardess College, the American Airlines Training and Conference Center is still used as American's base for flight attendant training. The center is also available for other training activities and conferences.