Impact

While Brady Fredrickson (’24) can’t be 100% sure where he’ll end up working in the aviation industry, he is sure of one thing: Wherever it is, he will be 100% prepared. Brady Fredrickson is among the first graduates to earn a Bachelor of Science in Pilot Operations (BSPO) degree through the College of Aviation at Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University’s Worldwide Campus. This new program is designed for undergraduate students interested in aeronautical science who are already licensed pilots. A fully online offering, the BSPO was created to help students achieve key aviation and safety leadership roles while learning from faculty with industry-leading experience and building on their own aviation skills and knowledge. What are some benefits of Embry‑Riddle’s BSPO degree? Associate Professor Dave Hunt, the BSPO Program Coordinator, says that “pilots can potentially transfer up to 45 credits from their current ratings and certificates toward their degree and be approximately a third of the way done before even starting the program. To accomplish this online from anywhere in the world is an efficient and effective approach in advancing a pilot's career.” For his part, Brady found numerous other advantages. “The pilot job market is evolving rapidly, and more employers are saying: ‘Great, you can fly an aircraft, but what additional skills do you have?’” Brady said. “This is where the BSPO becomes invaluable, as it allows me to demonstrate my skills in areas beyond flying, such as management, leadership and safety. I have a clear understanding of how these competencies work together, which I believe will open additional opportunities in my career." Another key attribute was that the online program allowed Brady to strike a balance between his classes and his independent flight training, which was also progressing at a rapid rate. Before he even started his final senior capstone project, he had completed six check rides to earn his multi-engine add-on and his ratings as a Certified Flight Instructor, an Instrument CFI and a ground school instrument instructor. Dual Enrollment at Embry‑Riddle opens the door Brady, who is from Midland, Texas, says his interest in aviation started in “the nursery room” and grew from there. His connection with Embry‑Riddle, which would eventually result in experiences at all three campuses, began in 10th grade when his mother told him about the university’s Dual Enrollment program. Brady took six classes for college credit, including Aviation Legislation and Introduction to Aeronautical Science, and also completed several required courses. Along the way, he also participated in aviation summer camp programs at the Daytona Beach Campus before ultimately deciding to attend the Prescott Campus to study Aeronautical Science. But then Brady saw an announcement about the newly-created BSPO program and thought, “This looks like it's right up my alley.” He decided to finish his bachelor’s degree online from home in Texas with the confidence that it would make a difference as his aviation career evolved. "All of us who want to become airline pilots are following similar paths, and we will all graduate with equivalent ratings and certifications,” Brady said. “In essence, we appear nearly identical in qualifications. The question then becomes, 'How do I differentiate myself from other aviation school graduates?’ The BSPO degree helps me achieve that distinction." What were the top takeaways from the BSPO program? Brady said the BSPO program provided plenty of highlights, such as being able to choose his research topic when it was time for his senior capstone project. “I like the fact that if there's enough trust between the instructor and the student, the instructor can just say to the student: ‘Do what you wish, just make sure it's reasonable,’” Brady said. He said he also enjoyed a Humanities class that focused on how aviation is depicted in films and how those portrayals have changed over the years. “My final was to watch both 'Top Gun' movies and write about them,” he said. “How could you not enjoy that?” But perhaps his favorite courses involved safety management systems, since learning about how accidents happen and how to prevent them is a primary focus in today’s aviation industry. "Discussions on safety and error chains are relevant far beyond aviation; the principles can be applied to almost any life circumstance," Brady said. His diligent work and determination, combined with the flexibility and support provided by Embry‑Riddle, culminated when he walked across the stage in August 2024 to receive his degree during the Worldwide Campus commencement ceremony in San Diego. Beyond becoming a college graduate at age 20, Brady also earned summa cum laude status. “I believe this demonstrates that with discipline and motivation, achieving the highest honors is possible while also excelling in flight training,” he said. “It should reassure others that the BSPO program's timelines are reasonable and that success is attainable.” Virtual program, real-world impacts Although the BSPO is entirely online, it still offers many networking opportunities. For Brady, that involved a group from one of his management classes and also Adjunct Associate Professor Kevin Smith, a safety expert. "My management group consisted of four individuals, and we remain in contact," Brady said. "Some members are already flying for regional airlines, while others are working in the Caribbean. I also stay in touch with Professor Smith, who has been incredibly supportive. I credit him significantly for helping me refine my career direction." Brady also had high praise for the Center of Mentorship Programs and Student Success (COMPASS), a renowned Embry‑Riddle program that features three unique mentoring initiatives. Initially founded by the Worldwide College of Arts & Sciences, COMPASS now supports all Embry Riddle students to help them “Navigate Forward.” Brady said that his COMPASS meetings with Associate Professor Trevor J. Adams “significantly impacted my academic views and perspectives on being successful.” While he is now pursuing a graduate degree at Purdue University, Brady says the BSPO from Embry‑Riddle has provided a solid foundation for expanding his aviation career, whether on the flight deck, as part of a safety management team, or as a check airman or chief pilot. What are some benefits of Embry‑Riddle’s BSPO degree? Associate Professor Dave Hunt, the BSPO Program Coordinator, says that “pilots can potentially transfer up to 45 credits from their current ratings and certificates toward their degree and be approximately a third of the way done before even starting the program. To accomplish this online from anywhere in the world is an efficient and effective approach in advancing a pilot's career.” For his part, Brady found numerous other advantages. “The pilot job market is evolving rapidly, and more employers are saying: ‘Great, you can fly an aircraft, but what additional skills do you have?’” Brady said. “This is where the BSPO becomes invaluable, as it allows me to demonstrate my skills in areas beyond flying, such as management, leadership and safety. I have a clear understanding of how these competencies work together, which I believe will open additional opportunities in my career." Another key attribute was that the online program allowed Brady to strike a balance between his classes and his independent flight training, which was also progressing at a rapid rate. Before he even started his final senior capstone project, he had completed six check rides to earn his multi-engine add-on and his ratings as a Certified Flight Instructor, an Instrument CFI and a ground school instrument instructor. Dual Enrollment at Embry‑Riddle opens the door Brady, who is from Midland, Texas, says his interest in aviation started in “the nursery room” and grew from there. His connection with Embry‑Riddle, which would eventually result in experiences at all three campuses, began in 10th grade when his mother told him about the university’s Dual Enrollment program. Brady took six classes for college credit, including Aviation Legislation and Introduction to Aeronautical Science, and also completed several required courses. Along the way, he also participated in aviation summer camp programs at the Daytona Beach Campus before ultimately deciding to attend the Prescott Campus to study Aeronautical Science. But then Brady saw an announcement about the newly-created BSPO program and thought, “This looks like it's right up my alley.” He decided to finish his bachelor’s degree online from home in Texas with the confidence that it would make a difference as his aviation career evolved. "All of us who want to become airline pilots are following similar paths, and we will all graduate with equivalent ratings and certifications,” Brady said. “In essence, we appear nearly identical in qualifications. The question then becomes, 'How do I differentiate myself from other aviation school graduates?’ The BSPO degree helps me achieve that distinction." What were the top takeaways from the BSPO program? Brady said the BSPO program provided plenty of highlights, such as being able to choose his research topic when it was time for his senior capstone project. “I like the fact that if there's enough trust between the instructor and the student, the instructor can just say to the student: ‘Do what you wish, just make sure it's reasonable,’” Brady said. He said he also enjoyed a Humanities class that focused on how aviation is depicted in films and how those portrayals have changed over the years. “My final was to watch both 'Top Gun' movies and write about them,” he said. “How could you not enjoy that?” But perhaps his favorite courses involved safety management systems, since learning about how accidents happen and how to prevent them is a primary focus in today’s aviation industry. "Discussions on safety and error chains are relevant far beyond aviation; the principles can be applied to almost any life circumstance," Brady said. His diligent work and determination, combined with the flexibility and support provided by Embry‑Riddle, culminated when he walked across the stage in August 2024 to receive his degree during the Worldwide Campus commencement ceremony in San Diego. Beyond becoming a college graduate at age 20, Brady also earned summa cum laude status. “I believe this demonstrates that with discipline and motivation, achieving the highest honors is possible while also excelling in flight training,” he said. “It should reassure others that the BSPO program's timelines are reasonable and that success is attainable.” Virtual program, real-world impacts Although the BSPO is entirely online, it still offers many networking opportunities. For Brady, that involved a group from one of his management classes and also Adjunct Associate Professor Kevin Smith, a safety expert. "My management group consisted of four individuals, and we remain in contact," Brady said. "Some members are already flying for regional airlines, while others are working in the Caribbean. I also stay in touch with Professor Smith, who has been incredibly supportive. I credit him significantly for helping me refine my career direction." Brady also had high praise for the Center of Mentorship Programs and Student Success (COMPASS), a renowned Embry‑Riddle program that features three unique mentoring initiatives. Initially founded by the Worldwide College of Arts & Sciences, COMPASS now supports all Embry‑Riddle students to help them “Navigate Forward.” Brady said that his COMPASS meetings with Associate Professor Trevor J. Adams “significantly impacted my academic views and perspectives on being successful.” While he is now pursuing a graduate degree at Purdue University, Brady says the BSPO from Embry‑Riddle has provided a solid foundation for expanding his aviation career, whether on the flight deck, as part of a safety management team, or as a check airman or chief pilot.

Christa Foster, a U.S. Army veteran and Aeronautics major, merges her passion for aviation with her academic and leadership roles, aiming to inspire and excel in the aviation industry. Christa Foster (‘25) was always captivated by the mysteries of science and the intricacies of how things work. Her fascination for discovery eventually turned into an interest in aviation, mirroring her early love for scientific exploration. “Growing up, I knew I wanted to go to college and pursue an education that would help me excel in my future career,” she said. “I used to ask for science kits and solar models... I believed I would pursue a career path associated with space research and exploration. My curiosity in space is where my initial peak of interest in aviation began, as it requires a deep understanding of scientific principles and discovery.” A Journey to Aviation Christa, a U.S. Army veteran, delved into her passion for aviation while stationed in South Korea as an aviation operations specialist. Reflecting on her experience, Christa shared, “I learned all about flight operations and aviation safety... I knew I wanted to pursue a higher education encompassing all aspects of aviation, which, I found out later in my military journey, was possible in an aeronautics program at Embry‑Riddle.” Recognizing the need for a university that offered flexibility while serving and aligned with her educational goals, Christa discovered Embry‑Riddle's Worldwide Campus, where she is now pursuing a B.S. in Aeronautics, complemented by two minors: Aviation Safety and Management. “I appreciate the school's core values in providing a quality education where students can have a flexible and personalized learning experience through the Worldwide Campus,” she said. “Pursuing a B.S. in Aeronautics felt the most rewarding for my career path, and I knew I was at the best university to begin a fulfilling academic journey in aviation.” The Worldwide Advantage As you explore the benefits of Embry‑Riddle, it's clear why students are drawn to its esteemed programs and innovative resources. Christa saw the chance to join a distinguished network of professionals and make a significant impact in aviation. “Embry‑Riddle Worldwide has a strong reputation for producing graduates who not only excel in the aviation industry but also go above and beyond in their contributions,” she said. “I strongly identified with the vision of being part of this distinguished group, knowing I could contribute to making positive and meaningful impacts within aviation and beyond.” She continued, “Another aspect that I value the most about Embry‑Riddle is the dedication of the instructors and faculty. They demonstrate genuine care for us students and offer valuable feedback, greatly contributing to the overall learning experience.” With its renowned reputation, strong academics and supportive faculty, Embry‑Riddle has provided Christa with the ideal learning environment to succeed and advance her career with confidence. Making an Impact As the Chapter President of the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) for the Worldwide Campus, Christa is dedicated to inspiring others and providing leadership development opportunities. “I want to inspire others to realize their leadership potential and guide them to new life opportunities, whatever that may mean for that student,” she said. “A wealth of self-development resources are available, so exploring and sharing them with others will be incredibly fulfilling.” Christa’s commitment to creating a positive impact extends far beyond her leadership roles. She shared, “The leaders inspire me in Black history and women's history. Their efforts in advocating for diversity and inclusion for everyone, regardless of race and gender, have impacted me,” she said. “I am inspired to carry on their legacy by upholding the rights and opportunities they fought for and creating a positive impact within my community and the aviation industry.” In addition to her role with NSLS, Christa is a member of the Society of American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA). Her dedication to fostering diversity was recognized when she was awarded the AIAA ASCEND + AVIATION Diversity Scholarship, which aims to help underrepresented students attend AIAA events, make connections and build lasting relationships with professionals in the field. “Through the scholarship, my expenses to attend the event were covered, and I had the opportunity to participate in the AIAA Diversity Scholars Program in Las Vegas, Nevada, this past summer,” she said. “The program consisted of insightful workshops and professional speakers where I learned and collaborated with other students and industry professionals.” Looking further ahead, Christa aspires to become a speaker at aviation conferences to showcase her knowledge and insights to a broader audience. Her recent experience ignited this ambition. “I was inspired by the recent AIAA Aviation Forum and ASCEND conference I attended as a Diversity Scholar, and it motivated me to follow in their footsteps,” she said. Her involvement in these organizations, along with her role in the Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society and C.A.R.E.E.R. Ready Club, has enriched her experience and broadened her professional network. Earning Hands-On Experience In the fall of 2023, Christa interned with Republic Airways, a leading regional airline based in Indianapolis, Indiana. Republic Airways, which operates flights for major carriers, provided her with invaluable hands-on experience in aviation management. As an aviation management intern, she tackled projects that involved quality assurance and safety modifications for operating manuals and more. “Ensuring the accuracy and modifications of technical publications positively impacted the company's overall safety and regulatory compliance,” she explained. “I developed collaborative skills within my team, learned the principles of encouraging a healthy work environment and enhanced my interpersonal skills.” The company’s internship program, complete with numerous events and practical exposure, supported Christa's professional development and deepened her understanding of airline operations. Now, Christa is currently interning with the National Society of Leadership and Success as the Chapter President. This role has improved her skills in leadership, team recruitment and management and even public speaking. She shared, “As the primary contact for students in the ERAU WW chapter of this commendable society, I carry a significant responsibility. I am blessed to hold this position and hope to impact the school’s student community positively.” Future Aspirations As Christa continues her journey, she is committed to advancing her education and career by seeking other aviation-related internships and pursuing a master's degree through Embry‑Riddle Worldwide. "I want to seek another internship specializing in aviation safety or flight operations to get additional hands-on experience, insights and connections within the industry,” she explained. “I also plan to pursue an M.S. in Aeronautics, which can open doors to higher-level opportunities in management or specialized roles within the aviation sector.” In pursuit of these ambitions, Christa is driven by the ever-evolving aviation industry and the endless opportunities it offers. “The aviation industry continues to motivate me because there is always something new to learn! It is constantly evolving with new regulations and solutions that I can familiarize myself with, which keeps me excited and engaged,” she said. “I love solving new challenges and collaborating with others to understand how to ensure aviation safety and efficiency.” Words of Wisdom In navigating the journey toward personal and professional growth, Christa has been profoundly supported by her mother, whose unwavering encouragement has been a key part of her success. Her mother’s constant belief in her potential, paired with her enduring advice, inspired Christa to push past obstacles and pursue her aspirations and career goals. Drawing from her own experiences and the lessons learned along the way, Christa shares a piece of advice with current students. “Never allow fear to stop you from pursuing your biggest dreams and goals, whether it entails accepting a new job opportunity, making a career change or taking on a new life challenge,” she said. “You possess distinctive qualities and have valuable insights to offer, and you should never let anything stop you from reaching new life achievements.” This guidance, rooted in a deep and enduring support, has been essential in shaping Christa’s resilience and determination in the aviation field and beyond.

From turning wrenches to doing touch-and-gos, Embry‑Riddle is helping student Nichole Stall explore the full range of possible aviation careers. To say that Nichole Stall has gone all in on aviation would be a serious understatement. At age 23, the California native is working toward a B.S. in Aeronautics from Embry‑Riddle’s Worldwide Campus while she also builds her time and experience as an aviation technician and a pilot of both airplanes and helicopters. Although her journey is just beginning, Embry‑Riddle is helping Nichole set her course toward a range of crucial aviation milestones that can open doors to successful careers in the sky and on the ground. Currently, Nichole works as a technician at COC Aerospace and is on a quest to earn her Airframe & Powerplant license to go along with her licenses to fly fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft. She recently took time out from school, work and flight training to share some highlights of her adventures as a student of aviation so far. Tell us about your background and how you first got interested in aviation. I am from Whittier, California, but we moved to Newbury Park when I was in elementary school and have lived here since. My dad has always been an aviation junkie and took me to air shows throughout Southern California. I also spend a lot of my time traveling and have always enjoyed being in the air. Why did you choose Embry‑Riddle for your A.S. and B.S. degrees in Aeronautics? Embry‑Riddle has a reputation that I trust, and they had the best degree programs for everything I wanted to do. The Embry‑Riddle community has always been so supportive in addition to helping provide so many of the tremendous opportunities I have been given. Tell us how you landed at COC Aerospace and the work you’re doing now. I used to work for a company that specialized in SOCATA-Daher TBM turboprop aircraft. I started as a detailer, then worked my way up to an apprentice aircraft mechanic under their station license, where I gained hours for my A&P license. I later found myself in the office as a Logbooks and Record Maintenance technician. In this role, I recorded all maintenance activities, inspections, repairs and alterations performed on aircraft in the logbook maintained by SOCATA-Daher, and updated work orders and log entries in accordance with FAA, Daher and Pratt & Whitney standards. I also abided by Daher’s and the FAA’s direction regarding the Pilot's Operating Handbook and other revisions based on Service Bulletins and updated Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs). I entered and printed Airworthiness Directives listings for each plane that underwent maintenance. My supervisor communicated with data analysts to discuss insurance, management systems and the scheduling and monitoring of SOCATA-Daher TBM engine health to support my role in releasing planes that passed inspections and were verified as airworthy. I used my A&P hours and FAA experience to land a job at COC Aerospace, which specializes in supporting the Northrop F-5/T-38 aircraft family. The company provides life extension, upgrades and maintenance solutions for these aircraft. COC also supports global customers with parts, technology and solutions, leveraging over 50 years of experience in the aerospace industry. The company is an AS9100 Rev D certified supplier and collaborates with major aerospace firms like Northrop Grumman and Airbus Defense. At COC, I build and overhaul parts for T-38 and T-5 aircraft, including landing gear, drop tanks, leading edges, and trailing edges. I use hand and pneumatic tools to assemble mechanical parts and subassemblies according to diagrams, specifications, blueprints and engineering drawings made by the U.S. Air Force. I also use advanced technologies such as photogrammetry, laser tracking and electronic discharge machining to enhance aircraft performance. I also spend a lot of my time collaborating with global customers and strategic partners. I am currently overhauling the landing gear for the Kratos supersonic UAV drone. This project involves disassembling the existing landing gear, inspecting each component for wear and damage, and refurbishing or replacing parts to ensure optimal performance and safety. I collaborate with engineering teams to incorporate the latest technologies and materials, enhancing the landing gear's durability and reliability. This overhaul is crucial for maintaining the UAV's operational capabilities and supporting its tactical missions. Not only do I spend a lot of time in the shop overhauling parts, but I also use the Inventory Locator Service (ILS) to efficiently source parts for the Northrop F-5 and T-38 aircraft. By leveraging ILS's extensive database, I identify and procure critical components from reliable suppliers. I also collaborate with various companies to re-engineer obsolete or hard-to-find parts, ensuring they meet current specifications and standards. Additionally, I broker parts by negotiating deals and managing transactions between manufacturers and clients, ensuring that the necessary components are delivered on time and at competitive prices. Tell us more about your pursuit of an A&P license. As a Mechanic & Avionics Apprentice specializing in the Daher Socata TBM, I diagnosed issues, documented maintenance tasks, and stayed updated with industry trends and systems while upholding safety standards. I recorded maintenance activities, inspections, repairs, and alterations in maintenance logbooks, ensuring meticulous documentation. I maintained and refurbished de-ice boots and systems integrated with the TBM, ensuring they met industry standards. Utilizing hand and pneumatic tools, I assembled mechanical parts and subassemblies according to diagrams, specifications, blueprints and engineering drawings for Garmin Avionic Systems. In an actuator shop, I maintained and tested actuators using specialized machines. Tell us more about your flight training. I started my pilot journey in the summer of 2021, focusing on private fixed-wing aircraft, where I logged my first 10 flight hours. When I began working at the TBM maintenance shop, I gained turboprop experience and was given the opportunity to boost my total flight time. This got me to my current 16 hours (in piston and turboprop). In the summer of 2023, I expanded my skills by starting to fly a Robinson R-66, adding flight hours towards my rotary-wing certification. What is your ultimate goal, and how will Embry‑Riddle help you reach it? After I complete my bachelor’s in Aeronautics with a minor in Economics, I want to pursue a Master of Space Operations. My ultimate goal is to fly for CalFire, as my dad worked for the Los Angeles County Fire Department for more than 32 years. In that process, I also want to dive into defense companies such as Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin or L3 Harris. I am embarking on part of this journey this fall as I am currently coordinating employment at Northrop Grumman. I have also longed to fly as a helicopter pilot for aerial electric line workers. Is there anything you’d like to add? A Bible verse that means a lot to me and helps keep me going is Psalms 121, 7-8: “The Lord will keep you from all harm — he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.”

Online classes and flexible schedules made Worldwide the perfect choice for Hannah Sluder, a non-traditional student with her sights set on a life in aviation. Although Hannah Sluder’s interest in aviation started when she was a little girl, it was Embry‑Riddle Worldwide that helped her passion take flight. Hannah (’25) is pursuing her B.S. in Aeronautics through the Worldwide College of Aviation and spending Summer 2024 as an intern in the FAA’s Aviation Safety STEM Student Program, an opportunity that will bring her another step closer to her dream career. As she got ready for a busy summer of learning through hands-on experience, Hannah took a few minutes to tell us about her life, her goals and her Embry‑Riddle journey. Tell us about your background I was born and raised in the North Georgia mountains in a little town called Ellijay. I lived there with my parents, James and Angie Thomas, and older brother, Levi Thomas, for 21 years until I married my high school sweetheart, Kyle Sluder, and moved to Ramstein, Germany. After Germany, my husband received orders to San Antonio, Texas, and we were stationed there until last year. After six years of active duty, Kyle transitioned to the Air National Guard, and we finally moved back home to Georgia. We currently reside in South Georgia near our family. How did you first get interested in aviation? My interest in aviation started at a very young age when my mawmaw, who worked at Lockheed Martin from the 1960s up until the day she passed away in 2014, would take us to Lockheed Martin in Marietta, Georgia, for family days. Over the years, my interest in aviation became my passion. How did you first hear about Embry‑Riddle? I first heard of Embry‑Riddle at the beginning of 2020 when I was looking to go back to college after taking three years off. My husband suggested we take a trip to the Education Office located on Ramstein Air Base. It’s there where I first found Embry‑Riddle’s Worldwide Campus, and I left there knowing what path I was destined to take. What made you choose Embry‑Riddle Worldwide for your Aeronautics degree? Embry‑Riddle Worldwide contained every single thing I looked for in a university, from all of their aviation-related degrees to the ease of classes offered fully online. What have been some highlights of your Embry‑Riddle experience so far? Embry‑Riddle has been exceptional, and I could not have chosen a better school to earn my degree. I’m forever grateful for the professors who have challenged me to become the student I am today and for the many opportunities I have been awarded just by enrolling at Embry‑Riddle. How does Embry‑Riddle make it easier to fit academic pursuits into your daily life? The ease of online classes has made Embry‑Riddle the best university I have attended. I have been able to pursue my degree while living abroad in Germany and then all the way to Texas and back to Georgia. Tell us all about your internship I was awarded an internship opportunity with the Federal Aviation Administration under the Aviation Safety STEM Student Program. The session begins on June 3, and I will work in the Aviation Safety, Aircraft Certification Service, East Certification Branch, and Airframe Section. My duties will include supporting FAA engineers for aircraft design reviews and technical assessments based on the applicants' compliance. Additional responsibilities may include local area-site visits to FAA approval holders and applicants with FAA engineering oversight. What is your ultimate career goal, and how will Embry‑Riddle help you achieve it? My ultimate career goal is to eventually be an aviation accident investigator; however, I would settle for any aviation-related career because it is not considered a job but something I look forward to every day. I am determined to accomplish this career goal by earning my degree from Embry‑Riddle, “The Harvard of the Sky.” What would you say about Embry‑Riddle to someone who wants to pursue a degree but is concerned about the time and cost? They say time is money, and by attending Embry‑Riddle Worldwide, you will save time with the courses being all online, which ultimately means you save money as well. Embry‑Riddle Worldwide, in my opinion, is shaped around non-traditional students, such as people with full-time jobs, military personnel and their spouses. Embry‑Riddle Worldwide is worth every penny you could spend. I would never choose a different university, and I will forever encourage everyone with aviation passions to attend. Is there anything else you want to say? I am proud to be a first-generation college graduate and second-generation aviation-related worker. I am forever thankful for my loving parents, James and Angie, who have continued to provide opportunities and have never wavered in their constant support. I am also grateful to my husband, Kyle, who has continued to stand by me no matter what and consistently encouraged me to “go after it.” I would never be the woman I am today without my entire family, and I’m proud to say that I went after it, and I’m doing it!

B.S. in Aeronautics grad Pedro Najera turned to Embry‑Riddle when he wanted to transition from a military to civilian career. Originally from Las Cruces, New Mexico, Pedro Najera (‘21) was always fascinated with aviation. It was this fascination that eventually led him to a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics at the Embry‑Riddle Worldwide Campus. “With Embry‑Riddle the leading university in aeronautics, I knew it was the place for me,” said Najera. “When I finally decided to start taking college classes and choose a career path, Embry‑Riddle was at the top of my list.” What is a B.S. in Aeronautics at Embry‑Riddle? The B.S. in Aeronautics is designed specifically for students who work, have worked or want to work in aviation-related careers. For students with existing aviation-related knowledge and skills, this degree acknowledges a student's valuable acquired experience through the award of advanced standing prior-learning credit and then builds on those skills and knowledge. Najera was active-duty Navy during his undergraduate education. While juggling his family, work and classes was difficult at first, he eventually learned how to find a healthy balance. “My time at Embry‑Riddle taught me to prioritize,” Najera said. “I worked full-time and took classes part-time, and on top of that, I had a family that I wanted to spend time with. I had to make sure that I spent my time wisely so that I could finish all my homework each week, excel in my job and still be a father and a husband.” A Flexible Program for Transitioning Veterans His experience allowed him to continue working and still gain the fundamental concepts to continue excelling in his education. The faculty and staff helped to create an environment that fostered continued learning with the flexibility to still maintain shifting priorities. “All the staff that I have worked with at Embry‑Riddle have been great,” he said. “Anytime I had an issue either with homework, registering for classes, or financial aid, the list is endless; whomever I spoke with was always polite and helpful.” Crossing the SkillBridge at Embry‑Riddle A year after graduating, Najera returned to Embry‑Riddle for a Part 65 AMTP SkillBridge program. This nine-week course was one of his favorite experiences at Embry‑Riddle. The program instructor, Kevin Beatty, is a veteran and helped to guide Najera in his civilian transition. “I was able to relate with him and gain confidence in my decision to separate from the military,” Najera said. “He understood the challenges of transitioning from active duty to civilian life. I admire his teaching style and his tenacity to ensure that everyone in the class grasped the concepts.” Even now, Najera continues to see the benefits of his Embry‑Riddle education. “It has helped me tremendously,” he said. “An array of alumni networks has opened for me both in my workplace and virtually.” Najera is currently working as an Aviation Maintenance Technician at Falcon Aviation Services, Inc. and plans to eventually return to Embry‑Riddle to get his master’s degree. “Many of my current co-workers are Embry‑Riddle alumni and being a graduate may have even helped me get my current job,” Najera said. “I know that it will help me in the future.”

Unmanned Systems Applications graduate Kelcey Kocer is putting her degree to work in a new job at Tesla. Kelcey Kocer ('18, ’21) knows a thing or two about how to juggle work and school with being a parent. After completing her A.S. in Aeronautics, she followed up with a Bachelor of Science in Unmanned Systems Applications (BSUSA) through Embry‑Riddle’s Worldwide Campus. She began working in the aviation field when she joined the U.S. Navy at 17 as an Aviation Machinist’s Mate. During her service, she gained experience as a mechanic and inspector on several types of aircraft. After spending six years in the Navy and having children, Kocer decided to end her enlistment in 2020 to focus on her education. Where can you work with an unmanned systems degree? Today, Kocer works full-time as an end of line vehicle validation technician at Tesla, a job she started in January 2023. Prior to that, she spent 18 months as an aerospace maintenance technician at Amazon Prime Air and before that, she worked as aircraft mechanic at Kay and Associates Inc. on Whidbey Island in Washington. When she’s not at work, she follows a strict schedule with each moment of her day planned out to stay on top of her work responsibilities and take care of her two young children. “When it comes to being a full-time mother, student and worker, utilizing your support such as family, friends and co-workers can benefit a lot,” she said. “I have learned throughout my education that when it comes to support, don’t be afraid to ask, even superheroes couldn’t do it alone.” While working parents may not realize they have a support group, she said that even the people you would least expect to help often don’t mind lending a hand. Fortunately, Kocer’s husband and others have formed a strong support system for her that help to tackle parenting duties. How do online classes work? Along with her support group, being able to take online classes also plays a major role in her ability to fulfill these different responsibilities. She noted that the virtual format of her classes is one of the main reasons why she can continue to advance her education, as in-person classes would not provide the same level of flexibility. One of the major advantages of Embry‑Riddle’s online programs like the BSUSA is the freedom to choose your own pace in the courses. Thanks to this key benefit, Kocer is able to manage her time strategically to ensure balance between work, student and home life. In an online post, Kocer says she is “a very versatile individual thanks to my military experience along with being self-driven and goal oriented. I like to think outside the box and gain new perspectives while working on teams.” She goes on to add that she is “passionate about unmanned systems and how they can aid humans in many domains such as space exploration, aerial missions, sea operations and ground operations. It is my dream to be part of an unmanned mission that can change the world, no matter how small the impact, it is a step in the right direction.”