Embry-Riddle Worldwide Student Uses Degree to Transform Aviation Career

Brittany Black (’27) had already built a decade-long communications career when a friend said to her, “Brittany, I think you should be a flight attendant. You have the perfect personality for that role.”

Working in aviation had never crossed Brittany’s mind before, but since taking her first job in the industry, she has never looked back.

A New Career Takes Off

Brittany served as a flight attendant for over two years during the COVID-19 pandemic, learning new skills amidst unprecedented challenges.

“People often think being a flight attendant is glamorous, but it’s so much more than that,” she said. “It’s about saving lives, protecting others, handling emergencies and somehow doing it all with a smile.”

Working in aviation led Brittany to new experiences, including her first discovery flight and a solo trip to Jamaica. She ultimately decided to pivot into a role that both suited her corporate background and advanced her career in the aviation industry.

“I quickly realized I’m probably better suited for the office than the flight deck,” she said. “I knew there were so many different paths within the industry, and I just needed someone to give me a chance.”

Getting Back to Business

After transitioning back to in-office positions, Brittany began working as a supply chain customer support specialist at The Boeing Company. With professional growth on her mind, Brittany’s manager encouraged her down the higher education route.

In spring 2025, she enrolled in the undergraduate Aviation Business Administration program at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Worldwide & Online, earning her degree while working full time.

“At first, I was hesitant because of my age and because I had been out of school for so long. I questioned whether I could really do it,” she said. “Looking back, I’m so glad I did.” 

Building on Experience through the Worldwide & Online Campus

Brittany strengthened her communication skills as she progressed through her course curriculum. She built on her existing interests while seeking direction for future career moves.

“My classes have helped me think more strategically and understand different parts of the business,” she said. “My marketing courses have definitely been my favorite so far.”

The expertise, passion and guidance of Brittany's professors stand out as one of the strongest aspects of the program.

“Even though I’m an online student, I’ve never felt like I was learning alone,” she said. “My professors have always been accessible, supportive and willing to help me dive deeper into the material whenever I needed it.”

By working aviation jobs in the sky and on land, and by expanding her knowledge through an industry-backed program, Brittany is prepared to succeed in her current and future positions.

“I love seeing how all the different pieces of aviation connect,” she said. “It’s given me a much broader understanding of the industry and how every role contributes to the bigger picture.”

Invest in Your Future with an Embry-Riddle Education

Brittany plans to cross the graduation stage next year at one of Embry-Riddle Worldwide & Online’s in-person commencement ceremonies and aspires to continue growing with Boeing.

“I’ve already had the opportunity to become a focal for United Airlines [through Boeing], and I’d love to continue building on that experience by eventually moving into a customer program manager role,” she said. “I really enjoy getting to know customers, solving problems and building relationships.”

Brittany has greater clarity about her future than ever, but this would never have happened if she had not taken a chance on herself.

“Aviation has taken me places I never imagined, introduced me to lifelong friends, challenged me to grow personally and professionally and taught me that it’s okay to reinvent yourself,” she said. “If someone had told me years ago that I’d become a flight attendant, work in aerospace and return to school in my 40s, I probably wouldn’t have believed them.”

These lessons have helped Brittany breathe new life into her career and have taken her on a journey she would recommend to people seeking a productive change in their lives.

“It can be intimidating to start something new, especially if you’ve been away from school for a while,” but she maintained, “It’s never too late to learn or invest in yourself.”