Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Worldwide & Online Campus is a great option for professionals seeking to advance their careers. With multiple start dates and flexible learning options, you can learn where you want, when you want.

Fadi Jano (’27) and Michael Hamilton (’27) expected to make professional connections at Embry-Riddle, but they never thought one of those connections would turn into a close friendship.

A Tale of Two Degrees

Fadi, an operations program manager at a Washington, D.C., consulting firm, had a long-held goal of attending Embry-Riddle to earn a degree that would hone his management skills and bolster his career. The Worldwide & Online Campus made it possible.

“Working toward a graduate degree feels less daunting with Michael’s support and insight,” Fadi said.

The M.S. in Airline Management (MSALM) is tailored for professionals in management roles who want to explore the technical aspects of the airline ecosphere. Courses focus on current airline management topics, including sustainability, disruption management, regulations and agile networks.

With a desire to advance his aviation career, Michael is earning an M.S. in Airport and Air Mobility Management (MSAAMM). He currently works for the Metro Washington Airports Authority at Washington Dulles International Airport as an assistant airport operations duty manager.

“Having a friend with a different professional background makes the program richer and more dynamic,” Michael said.

An MSAAMM will prepare him for roles in airport administration, operations and leadership. Embry-Riddle faculty are current airport professionals who share their expertise through various projects and real-world case studies involving aviation laws, regulations, operations and security.

From Classmates to Friends

When they were assigned to the same group and realized they lived near each other, they met for lunch.

“Michael and I met in a customer experience class in March of 2025, when I posted a video discussion mentioning that I was from the Washington, D.C., area,” Fadi said. “He also lives in the area, invited me to meet in person to study, and we hit it off.”

That lunch later became a regular meeting when they both took Professor Kenric Greene’s airport operations class.

“What started out as classmates working on assignments quickly turned into a real friendship,” Michael said. “Going into an online master's program, I didn’t think I’d make any friends, but I’ve met some amazing people.”

Sometimes the best lessons come from the friends you meet along the way.

Michael Hamilton and Fadi Jano
Michael (left) and Fadi (right) behind the scenes at Washington Dulles International Airport. (Photo: Fadi Jano)

A Big Benefit

Embry-Riddle’s Worldwide & Online Campus provides the flexibility that working professionals like Fadi and Michael need.

To me, the greatest benefit of Embry-Riddle’s Worldwide & Online Campus is the ability to study what you love at any stage of your career, along with the program's flexibility,” Fadi said. “The classes are interactive, and the faculty is communicative and engaged, giving timely feedback and sharing industry insights.”

Learning where and when they want allows them to earn their graduate degrees without putting their lives on hold.

“Balancing a full-time job in airport operations at Dulles with graduate school has not been easy, so completing coursework at my own pace each week is a big benefit,” Michael said. “Another benefit is the top-notch faculty — learning directly from experts who actively work in the industry.”

An Eye on the Future

Currently working in aviation, Michael sees for himself the practical applications of his program.

“The MSAAMM has helped me look deeper into airport management beyond just daily operations, and it has strengthened my interest in future airport management roles,” Michael added. “I also appreciate the program’s focus on both the current state of airport operations and where the industry is heading with new technology and air mobility advancements.”

Classes taught by industry experts have given him a unique window into what goes on behind the scenes.

“I appreciate learning how decisions are made at the executive level,” Michael said. “Working at Dulles, I see firsthand how those decisions affect employees, passengers, airlines and the airport as a whole.”

Though Fadi doesn’t have an aviation background, as a program manager, he brings valuable experience to the table.

“The MSALM is a very practical program — I’ve learned about airline operations and network planning, like how airlines schedule flights and manage demand to stay competitive,” Fadi said. “The degree aligns well with my background in program management.”

Take Full Advantage

Embry-Riddle’s Worldwide & Online Campus has opened new doors for Michael and Fadi, offering them the flexibility and support they need to pursue new professional journeys.

“It’s never too late to continue your education,” Fadi said. “My goal was to earn a graduate degree from Embry-Riddle, but I didn’t think going back to school was possible.”

Both men believe building meaningful relationships is a vital aspect of online education.

“Engage with the people in class, and don’t just log in and complete assignments; some of the best experiences come from the connections you’ll make,” Michael said. “My friendship with Fadi is a fitting example.”

Learn more about Embry-Riddle’s Worldwide & Online Campus degrees and certificates.