Kelly Hansen Is Cleared for Takeoff

“At Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University, you’re not just learning to get a degree — you’re building a foundation for a career,” says Kelly Hansen (’24), who has built some of that foundation in the lab. She isn’t waiting for her degree to make an impact in the world of aviation.

As a senior in the Aeronautical Science program at Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University, she’s already making waves as both an athlete and a researcher tackling some of aviation’s most pressing issues. Working at the university’s Boeing Center for Aviation and Aerospace Safety has given Kelly unparalleled access to tools, connections and real-world experience. She’s not merely preparing for a job post-graduation — she’s positioning herself to land the perfect role for her skills and ambitions.

Ever Tenacious

Standing tall at 6’1”, Kelly commands attention on the volleyball court as much as she does in the research lab. Her 184 kills and 29 blocks in 30 matches this season highlight her relentless drive, a trait she applies to her work as a student-researcher.

From snowboarding championships in her hometown of El Dorado Hills, California, to leading her team and peers at Embry‑Riddle, Kelly has always pushed the limits of what she can achieve. But it’s in the air — or preparing others for it — where her ambition truly takes flight.

Serving as a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) has further fueled her desire to improve safety standards for pilots. She understands the high stakes of aviation, where even a small error can lead to tragedy. Through her research, Kelly is driving changes that could influence future FAA training protocols and certification standards. “This project has shown me the real-world impact safety research can have — not just in theory but in practical applications I bring directly to my flight students.”

Safety Is a Shared Mission

Established in 2022 and now housed in a cutting-edge facility, the Boeing Center for Aviation and Aerospace Safety is dedicated to advancing aviation safety. This mission isn’t confined to theory; it’s rooted in practical applications that drive innovations in training, safety protocols and risk management. By partnering with industry leaders, the Center enables students like Kelly to engage in high-impact research addressing aviation’s most critical challenges.

Transforming Data Into Protection

One of the most urgent challenges in aviation today is loss of control (LOC), a leading cause of fatal crashes in both commercial and private sectors. Human factors like distraction, fatigue and insufficient training contribute to nearly half of all aviation fatalities globally. Addressing these factors is essential for reducing accidents and improving safety.

Kelly’s work on LOC incidents goes far beyond textbook lessons. Collaborating with principal investigators Brian Roggow and Dr. Esmaeil Zarei, Kelly identifies human errors that lead to catastrophic events. By applying tools like the Human Factors Analysis and Classification System (HFACS) and Dynamic Bayesian Networks (DBN), her team is developing predictive models that could reshape pilot training and safety protocols across the industry.

“The research I’m involved in, supported by the Boeing Center for Aviation Safety, gives me the tools to turn hard data into real-world lessons,” Kelly explains. “In aviation, some mistakes can only be made once, so learning from others is critical.”

Field Work Matters Too

In 2023, Kelly secured an internship with Delta Air Lines, where she didn’t just observe — she contributed to operations and safety initiatives. This hands-on experience, combined with her research, has given her a deep understanding of aviation that extends far beyond theoretical knowledge. As a competitor in the Women’s Air Race Classic, Kelly has also proven that she thrives under pressure, whether in the air or on the ground.

Getting Ahead Collaboratively

Her leadership doesn’t stop in the lab or classroom. As president of Athletes in Aviation, Kelly helps other student-athletes navigate their careers in aerospace. In her role as Industry Liaison Officer for the ALPA ACE Club, she connects students with aviation professionals, ensuring they build their industry networks long before graduation.

She appreciates the experiences that have taken her beyond the classroom.

“Embry‑Riddle’s connections with the industry ensure that students graduate with a clear path forward. Whether it’s through internships, research projects or clubs like ALPA ACE, the opportunities here set you up for success."

Kelly’s years as a student-athlete at Embry‑Riddle, supplemented with a top internship and the opportunity to perform research alongside industry safety experts, ensure a smooth entry into the workplace. With her eye on becoming an airline captain and a director of safety or chief pilot, Kelly is positioned to outpace the competition — even before she moves the tassel on her mortarboard.