Innovation
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Research is huge at Embry-Riddle, and we’re proud to make graduate-level research opportunities available to undergraduate students.
How Research Experiences for Undergraduates Make a DifferenceResearch is huge at Embry-Riddle, and we’re proud to make graduate-level research opportunities available to undergraduate students.Embry-Riddle students are no strangers to performing research. Thanks to small class sizes taught by experienced professors, our Eagles are given plentiful opportunities to work side-by-side with faculty on a vast array of research topics.
We also encourage our students to participate in research inside and outside of the classroom and beyond the academic year. Some students even stay on campus to take summer courses and keep working on their passion projects.
Research Experiences for Undergraduates
For the past several years, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has been designated as a Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Site by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). This funding from the NSF allows our faculty to select a handful of applicants to participate in research and gain valuable laboratory experience and direct mentorship.
The MicaPlex at Embry-Riddle's Research Park, where students and faculty work on next-level research.
Students from all universities in the U.S. are permitted to apply for the NSF’s interdisciplinary 10-week summer program, which provides housing, meals, activities and a stipend. Some research areas include post-space flight syndrome, spacecraft trajectory design and biomarker sensing – all of which are led by Embry-Riddle faculty in our own facilities, like the MicaPlex.
Though many students who come to Embry-Riddle for the REU program are from other universities, a certain percentage of Embry-Riddle students are typically accepted as well.
During the summer 2023 program session, Embry-Riddle student Forrest Dohner (’26) was one of the few students selected to participate in the REU site on the Daytona Beach Campus. He’s studying Aerospace Engineering, driven by his love for air and spacecraft.
“I have always been fascinated by anything that flies, especially rockets,” he said. “I didn’t travel much growing up, so researching planes and rockets became a skill I picked up early on.”
Forrest worked with chemistry professors Dr. Foram Madiyar – Embry-Riddle’s REU Principal Investigator (PI) – and Dr. Jenny Vu on research surrounding self-healing polymers. He says that after working with Dr. Vu during this project, she’s become one of the greatest influences in his college career.
“I was introduced to Dr. Vu during last summer’s REU program. Beforehand, I had worked closely with her to better understand the polymer chemistry behind the synthesis. Now, I continue to work with Dr. Vu, continuing research into the same self-healing polymers,” he said.
Forrest noted that one of the advantages of researching over the summer was the time he was able to dedicate to research without having classes at the same time.
The Importance of Research
Research has guided Forrest’s path through Embry-Riddle and beyond. After he graduates, he plans to take the skills he learned and the research he conducted during his REU experience and continue researching materials applications in aerospace engineering.
“Ultimately, I hope that this path can lead me to work at an organization like NASA to contribute to the further exploration of space,” he expressed.
Forrest advises future Embry-Riddle students that a key contributor to having a positive experience is getting involved in research or similar projects they find interest in. He said, “Getting a real-world application of your classes makes the learning process so much more fun.”
Are you looking for ways to get research on your resume before college graduation? Apply to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and discover the opportunities.
Established business innovator Eugene Pik used Embry-Riddle’s M.S. in Aviation and Aerospace Sustainability program to expand his aviation horizons.
For This Successful Eagle Entrepreneur, the Learning Never StopsEstablished business innovator Eugene Pik used Embry-Riddle’s M.S. in Aviation and Aerospace Sustainability program to expand his aviation horizons.
Eugene Pik was born to be an entrepreneur, and he began innovating while growing up in Minsk, Belarus, when it was still part of the Soviet Union.
He continued his technical education after his family emigrated to Israel and later moved to Canada, where he created multiple companies that included fundraising for medical research, developing a bartering system based on the Amazon database and helping medical device manufacturers prepare documentation to get Health Canada and FDA approvals.
That work led him to the doorstep of the aviation industry, where Eugene combined medicine with aviation by leading the development of an eVTOL (electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing) aircraft for air ambulance and other emergency services. His quest for a more solid aviation foundation also led him to the M.S. in Aviation and Aerospace Sustainability at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Worldwide Campus.
Eugene, who earned his degree in March 2024, is currently CEO at Mevocopter Aerospace, an aviation consulting firm focused primarily on cybersecurity and sustainability and aiming to empower aviation startups with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate the increasingly complex landscape of the industry.
Eugene took a few minutes to discuss his past work, incredible Embry-Riddle experience and his future plans.
Tell us about your background
I was born in Minsk, and I finished high school with 100% marks in every subject and was accepted into the prestigious Faculty of Robots and Robototechnical Systems at the Belarusian Polytechnic Institute. During my studies there, I learned computer programming and wrote a commercial payroll software using the SuperCalc application.
It wasn't easy to be an entrepreneur in the former USSR, but I managed to create a commercial software. This was a challenging task on a PC without a hard drive, using a spreadsheet application — I had to write the complete programming code into each spreadsheet cell.
After my family emigrated to Israel, I worked in computer support and network security and taught computer network design and security at a college. In parallel to my full-time job, I studied and completed the Software Practical Engineer program at The Open University. It wasn't simple, especially because the program was in Hebrew, a language I had to learn from scratch.
How and why did you first get interested in aviation?
While working with medical devices, an opportunity came up, and I started a company called Uniqopter to develop an eVTOL aircraft. One of my talents is identifying and connecting with the right people. I collaborated with Richard Abbott, a brilliant aerospace engineer, and Taras Lyssenko, a skilled business development and government relations professional. Together, we developed a conceptual design for a hybrid eVTOL aircraft, enhancing the characteristics of a Part 27 helicopter for medical applications.
After interviewing multiple air ambulance companies, we discovered they all had similar problems due to their general-purpose helicopters being retrofitted with medical devices. We addressed these issues and created a design suited for a medical air ambulance eVTOL. We also took an unorthodox approach with the intention of making all our blueprints, designs and procedures open source. No one had tried that in the aviation business before, but we believe someone always has to start.
However, after we finished the conceptual design, we placed the project on hold due to challenges such as missing regulations, infrastructure and battery technology limitations. We decided to monitor the market to see what happens with other eVTOL companies and restart this project when the sky clears.
Why did you choose to pursue a master’s degree at Embry-Riddle?
Working with aerospace professionals at Uniqopter made me realize I needed more aviation-specific knowledge. Embry-Riddle was the clear choice as it is known as the “Harvard of Aviation.” The online education option allowed me to study while still working
I chose the M.S. in Aviation and Aerospace Sustainability, specializing in Cybersecurity. Sustainability is a relatively new area focused on keeping our planet livable for the next generation, and cybersecurity is something I have worked on for most of my life, making this degree a perfect fit for me.
What have been some of the highlights of your academic journey at Embry-Riddle?
When I began my first course at Embry-Riddle, I was both surprised and challenged by the strict formatting requirements for my papers. I had never encountered APA7 or any formalized formatting style before. Fortunately, Embry-Riddle offers the VECTOR Virtual Communication Lab, which became an invaluable resource for me.
Early in my studies, I scheduled numerous one-on-one meetings with advisors (at least ten times, if not more) to review my papers and receive guidance. The support I received was exceptional and significantly helped me adapt to these new academic standards.
Another aspect that surprised me was the consistent and structured approach to education at Embry-Riddle. Each course included two to three weekly assignments, with deadlines on the weekend.
This was a stark contrast to my previous educational experience, where students were allowed to study at their own pace and only had to prepare for exams twice a year. That method created an uneven workload and often led to intense periods of cramming. The regular assignment schedule at Embry-Riddle ensured a more balanced and continuous learning process, which ultimately enhanced my understanding and retention of the material.
The completely remote style of education was also new for me, but the professors were always available, quickly answering emails and offering Zoom video conferences or phone calls, which made the education process easier.
Tell us more about the research you’ve done and the papers you’re preparing to present
Throughout my academic journey at Embry-Riddle, I have engaged in a range of research projects and competitions, which included:
Organizing a team for the 2023 ICAO student innovation competition focused on the topic “General Aviation Aircraft as a Meteorological Sensor.” We proposed the creation of a centralized weather data repository leveraging the capabilities of the new ADS-B Version 3 (ADS-B Wx).
For the NASA 2024 student competition, I organized and managed a team that included Assistant Professor Dr. Logan Gerber-Chavez and worked on a paper and video entitled “Enhancing Hurricane Forecasting and Alerts through AI-Driven Analysis of General Aviation Data.” This proposal is particularly beneficial for hurricane prediction, leading to more timely and effective community alerts and responses, marking a considerable advance in disaster preparedness and public safety.
For the AIAA AVIATION Forum, I collaborated with Matthew Berra, Adjunct Professor Dr. Jeff Yearwood and Assistant Professor Dr. Joao Garcia on a research paper titled “Detecting GPS Anomalies in Aviation Using ADS-B: Correlating Coordinate Gaps and GPS Deviations with NOTAM Warnings.” As the first author, I will present this paper on Aug. 2 in Las Vegas.
Another paper where I am a co-author, titled “Empirical Propeller Mass Sizing for Small-Scale Aircraft” and created in collaboration with Associate Professor Dr. Robert Deters, Dr. Or Dantsker from Indiana University and Amy Chang, will also be presented at the AIAA AVIATION Forum 2024.
I am collaborating with Assistant Professor of the Practice Christian Janke on the research paper “Game of Drones, International Drone Statistics.”
I am the solo author of the paper “Airport security: The impact of AI on safety, efficiency, and the passenger experience,” published in the Journal of Transportation Security. The paper examines how AI is transforming airport security by improving threat analysis and identification while addressing ethical and privacy concerns.
My paper “The Pilot Shortage - Implications, Repercussions, and Tried Solutions” was published in the Journal of Air Transport Studies. The article provides a comprehensive analysis of the global pilot shortage, offering insights and strategies for aviation professionals and policymakers to address the issue and ensure the industry's sustainability.
I presented a poster, “GPT-4 Assisted Categorization and Visualization of NTSB UAV Accident Reports,” at Embry-Riddle’s 2024 Discovery Days, and I completed a paper based on that poster, which was submitted to the Journal of Safety Research and is currently in peer review. This study leverages AI to systematically categorize and analyze UAV accident reports, highlighting the prevalence of system failures and emphasizing the need for improved safety standards and policies.
These projects and papers reflect my dedication to addressing critical issues in aviation and aerospace. The collaborative efforts with faculty and peers have been incredibly enriching. I look forward to presenting my findings at various forums.
After two of my peer-reviewed articles were published, some friends and schoolmates asked me to share my thoughts, experiences and advice based on what I had learned about research at Embry-Riddle. Those recollections are here for prospective, current and former students to read.
What are some of your goals for the future?
Aviation has always been my dream, though the path hasn’t always been straight.
As the founder of Mevocopter Aerospace, I'm seeking new consultancy projects in aviation sustainability and cybersecurity with aerospace companies, airports, airlines and manufacturers. I'm also looking to participate in funded research projects focused on aviation sustainability or cybersecurity.
One of my greatest strengths is connecting with the right people, which has been instrumental in my ventures. I leverage this skill to build strong teams and drive successful projects in the aviation industry.
With ambition and a clear vision, I’m ready to take on new challenges in aviation sustainability and cybersecurity. My dream may have taken a winding path, but it has led me to where I am today, ready to soar to new heights.
Anyone interested in working with me can connect on LinkedIn or ResearchGate or reach out via email. I look forward to exploring new opportunities and making impactful connections in the aviation industry.
How will your M.S. degree from Embry-Riddle help you reach those goals?
My degree has given me the technical knowledge, industry insights and professional network I need to pursue and succeed in aviation sustainability and cybersecurity roles, as well as contribute to new research projects and business ventures.
What would you say to an accomplished professional considering an advanced degree at Embry-Riddle?
Eagles soar! What else do we need to add? For those who still need convincing, check the difference between soaring and flying!
The Society of Women Engineers at Embry-Riddle’s Daytona Beach Campus is dedicated to the equal opportunity of women in the engineering workplace, as well as promoting the study of engineering.
SWE Looks Back at a Year of Empowering Women and Creating CommunitiesThe Society of Women Engineers Collegiate Section at Embry-Riddle’s Daytona Beach Campus is dedicated to the equal opportunity of women in the engineering workplace, as well as promoting the study of engineering.The SWE section at Embry-Riddle offers opportunities for members to network with professionals, attend conferences, participate in outreach events, develop leadership skills and socialize with other women in engineering.
During the 2023-24 academic year, SWE members organized, hosted and participated in various events that showcased their commitment to the future of women in STEM. Recruitment Chair Megan Chann compiled this look at what SWE has been up to recently.
How Does SWE Support Women in Engineering?
During Women’s History Month, SWE celebrated the accomplishments and contributions of women in STEM fields, promoting gender equity and awareness of the critical role women play in these industries.
SWE members are all smiles as they get set for a General Meeting.
Our Campus Events Committee organized a “Walk Through Women’s History Month” tabling event on International Women's Day, March 8, where we partnered with 13 other student groups to showcase educational displays dedicated to influential women in STEM.
This initiative aimed to raise awareness about gender equity and acknowledge the remarkable achievements of women in STEM throughout history. Moreover, this program involved SWE members participating in various activities throughout that month, demonstrating our commitment to empowering women and promoting diversity in STEM.
On March 20, members dressed in purple and white, symbols of loyalty, dignity and justice, to make a statement and raise awareness. We also collaborated with Pratt & Whitney to host a Women Empowerment/Resume workshop on March 27, while our joint effort with student organizations such as the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers in painting the Spirit Rock also helped raise awareness and promote inclusivity.
These events embody SWE's values of integrity, inclusivity, trust and professional excellence. By celebrating Women's History Month, we honor women's achievements in STEM and inspire future generations to pursue careers in these fields, contributing to greater diversity and inclusion.
SWE Gives Girls the Gift of STEM
To lead into Women’s History Month, SWE hosted its biggest outreach event on February 17 at the Daytona Beach Campus, with 40 volunteers and seven SWE committee members dedicating their time to lead the “Introduce a Girl to Engineering” Workshop (IGEW).
The event brought over 140 third- through fifth-grade girls from around Volusia County to campus to engage in hands-on engineering activities.
Activities ranged from building marshmallow towers to learning about boat physics, and all of them helped demonstrate the practical applications of engineering in a relatable and enjoyable way.
As the sole funder of this event, SWE provided money for essentials such as IGEW T-shirts and lunch for all volunteers and participants, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone involved.
The IGEW event aligns with SWE's mission to promote diversity and inclusion in STEM by sharing knowledge and resources while contributing to advancing educational equity and fostering a sense of belonging among underrepresented groups in STEM.
Katie Swenson, who is graduating in 2024 with her B.S. in Aerospace Engineering, served as SWE’s 2023-24 President.
“Being SWE president has been my favorite role at Embry-Riddle,” Katie said. “It helped me foster a community that allowed women to be heard and take steps in their journey in STEM. Not only were we able to reach college students, but elementary students as well. Leading the planning of IGEW was my favorite part of this year. I got to work with an amazing committee that worked tirelessly to ensure IGEW was special for everyone. Watching each girl learn and develop a lifelong love for learning was so special, and I hope they understand that they're capable of great things.”
How Else Does SWE Impact the Community?
SWE’s outreach work didn’t stop there. We also participated in the STEM Fair, a platform to engage and inspire over 120 local children by inviting them onto campus to explore the wonders of STEM. Through various activities displayed by SWE and other student organizations and research projects from students and professors, the STEM Fair provided an interactive experience, sparking inspiration among the community.
We also were involved in a tabling event for the Amateur Radio on the International Space Station program, which enables students to talk directly to ISS astronauts. This was in addition to our participation in the Museum of Arts & Sciences “Space Day” and several visits to local schools that helped increase awareness of STEM opportunities for girls.
Does SWE Help Members Make Professional Connections?
Beyond our advocacy work, SWE also provides direct connections to some of the world’s top employers and helps members build professional networks and direct connections to industry leaders.
This year, SWE was involved in the Lockheed Martin Mentorship Program, Pratt & Whitney resume workshops and networking events, an American Airlines networking event and the Society of Women Engineers’ WE23 event in Los Angeles. A total of 37 SWE members were part of these events, securing 90 job interviews and landing 27 employment offers.
“SWE hosted several impactful professional events, each contributing to my personal and professional growth,” said Ashley Cathon, a rising junior majoring in Aerospace Engineering who will serve as SWE’s 2024-25 Professional Development Chair. “Among these events, WE23 was particularly instrumental in growing myself professionally because it allowed me to receive 12 internship offers for summer 2024, which I am immensely thankful for. Additionally, the Pratt & Whitney resume workshops and Lockheed Martin Mentorship Program that SWE coordinated were valuable for providing me with direction in selecting a suitable internship and understanding corporate expectations. As Professional Development Chair, I am committed to expanding our outreach by inviting more companies to campus to discuss internship opportunities and to offer resume support and interview preparation workshops. I look forward to witnessing further growth in SWE!”
SWE Keeps the Focus on the Future
SWE is also deeply involved on the Daytona Beach Campus, and our “SWEek” recruitment events include an open house, field day and fun activities such as karaoke and DIY sugar scrub and mask making.
We also visited EGR 101 classrooms and were part of the Registered Student Organization Showcase and E-Week, among other campus events. In addition, we registered two “SWENext” clubs in the Daytona area, forming connections with younger girls interested in engineering/science and competitions and paving the way for many opportunities in the future.
During the past academic year, we had eight fundraisers, including bake, slime and plant sales, along with raffles featuring prizes such as LEGO bouquets and model planes. We even designed new merchandise, giving our members another opportunity to represent SWE.
Altogether, we made over $2,500 on fundraising this year, not including corporate donations.
The social aspect of SWE is addressed too, and we routinely get together for things such as Ice Cream Karaoke, Starbucks Wednesdays, ice skating and Women in Aviation International Karaoke Night. We also hold a yearly banquet to celebrate our accomplishments and each other.
In addition to their work in class, on campus and in the community, SWE members also know how to enjoy themselves as they do here during a recent Ice Cream and Karaoke event.
While SWE members are dedicated to the mission no matter what, it is nice to see our section and members singled out for recognition among the many outstanding students and groups at Embry-Riddle.
This year, we were honored to earn the IDEA (Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity and Advocacy) award in addition to being acknowledged with the Community Building, the Eagle Service and the Exceptional Eagle awards, along with being named an Outstanding Diversity Program.
On top of that, SWE members also stood out by earning individual accolades:
- The Ascending Eagle - Ashley Cathon
- Eagle Service Awards - Katie Swenson, Logan Price
- Academic Excellence Award - Lynn Boudani
- Elite Eagle - Jessica Sammons
- Outstanding Advisor - Professor Claudia Ehringer Lucas
The SWE members who are graduating this year look back fondly on wonderful memories of the experiences and opportunities that their membership in the section offered.
“I joined SWE four years ago, and I wouldn’t change a thing!” said Esh Bhargava, who graduated with a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering and served as SWE’s 2021-22 Secretary and 2022-23 Vice President. “I will always be grateful for the professional engagement and development resources SWE provided me. The organization gave me the confidence to attend career fairs and apply for internships and, eventually, full-time jobs. More importantly, the students provided an open and safe social outlet to get to know each other and make some lifelong friends even though we were freshmen. I cherish every memory made laughing, studying and traveling with other members.”
Carly McDonald earned her B.S. in Aerospace Engineering and served as SWE’s 2023-24 Professional Engagement Chair.
"I joined SWE as a freshman and immediately got involved,” Carly said. “I did a lot of planning and behind-the-scenes work for the Lockheed Martin Mentorship Program, the American Airlines event and the Pratt & Whitney events, and I've seen firsthand how valuable SWE is. Most companies I worked with actively reached out and wanted to work with us. I've also had the opportunity to meet amazing people, from other students to industry leaders. I've noticed that during my four years here, everyone in SWE genuinely cares about helping each other, and it's nice to have someone willing to help."
This has been an outstanding year for SWE, and as we say goodbye to some of our senior leaders, we’re also looking for committed young women to join SWE for the upcoming 2024-25 year.
If you love STEM and want to inspire young girls to follow in your footsteps, get involved in helping SWE empower women and create communities.
While earning her degree in Forensic Psychology, Alexandra Houston has gotten involved in crucial research on Embry-Riddle's Prescott Campus.
Navigating Neurodiversity and Law EnforcementWhile earning her degree in Forensic Psychology, Alexandra Houston has gotten involved in crucial research on Embry-Riddle's Prescott Campus.Alexandra Houston (’25) is a student researcher at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, earning her B.S. in Forensic Psychology with a minor in Cyber Intelligence and Security. Drawn to her program because of a deep interest in the human brain, Houston explained that beginning her degree at Embry-Riddle was an easy decision.
“Embry-Riddle was the obvious choice for me because of its prestige, the majors it offers and how driven the student population is,” she shared.
Since arriving on the Prescott Campus, Houston has immersed herself in organizations and academic experiences that only deepen her passion for her field.
“I am very involved on campus as the secretary for Psi Chi (Psychology Honors Society) and Beta Eta (Forensic Honors Society),” she said. “I have had the opportunity to connect with people in my major, perform organizational tasks and expand the volunteer outreach for both of these societies on campus.”
Research Experience at Embry-Riddle
In addition to her involvement in honors societies, Houston is a research assistant through the Undergraduate Research Institute, participating in research that studies law enforcement interactions with people on the autism spectrum.
“We focus on learning from existing encounters, as well as current autism and law enforcement training manuals, to develop comprehensive training options for both law enforcement officers and autistic people,” she explained.
Houston completed her research while working alongside her classmate, Alexus Marquez, and under Dr. Diana Orem, assistant professor of Forensic Psychology, and Dr. John Woodman, assistant professor of Psychology.
The team spent six months collecting data by analyzing current training manuals, identifying where these trainings were successful or fell short and applying best practices to facilitate an improved training program.
“This data was referenced to benefit the creation of Dr. Diana Orem’s autism and law enforcement training, which has been administered to local law enforcement and received overwhelmingly positive feedback,” Houston shared.
Houston and her fellow researchers were invited to attend the October 2023 Philanthropy Expo on campus, where they shared their research with university donors and other attendees.
“The assistant dean of research, Dr. Anne Boettcher, guided us through the URI experience and notified us of the Philanthropy Expo. We were eager to present our findings as we connected with the very people that help fund our projects,” Houston recalled of the experience.
APSAC’s Annual Colloquium
While attending the Expo, Houston and Marquez were introduced to Sue Hardie, a member of the board of directors at the American Professional Society on the Abuse of Children (APSAC).
“We spoke about how the goals of her organization aligned with our own. Mrs. Hardie encouraged us to submit our work to APSAC’s 31st Annual Colloquium where researchers and professionals come together to share their expertise,” Houston shared. “Our presentation was accepted, and we are so grateful for our connection with Mrs. Hardie through the URI!”
She spoke more about the upcoming colloquium in New Orleans, Louisiana, expressing her excitement to share their research with a wider audience.
“It has been so rewarding to work hard toward something bigger than myself as we attempt to aid the autism spectrum community. Now, we get to showcase our efforts to people just as passionate about helping others within their communities,” she said. “I am looking forward to connecting with other researchers, as well as listening to their valuable professional experiences!”
Bridging Gaps in Training
Houston continued, explaining the value of researching the interactions between law enforcement and individuals on the autism spectrum.
“Research suggests that autistic individuals are more likely to encounter law enforcement than neurotypical [people]. Although they are more likely to encounter this population, large gaps in officer training are becoming apparent as they are often unstandardized, inconsistent and lack data to track efficacy,” she explained.
“Providing data to reveal gaps and improve training characteristics has the potential to reduce violence and stigma, allow standards to adapt to the current training needs and ensure the protection and well-being of officers and autistic people.”
Houston spoke to her own interest and motivation to pursue research in this area, citing the pressing need for better treatment of those within the autism spectrum community.
“I am very dedicated in doing whatever I can do to protect, support and increase awareness toward the autism community as they do not deserve the struggles they are subjected to,” she said.
Other On-Campus Involvement
In addition to her work in research on campus, Houston is an athlete on the women’s soccer team, something else she says was a driving factor in her decision to attend Embry-Riddle.
“The accomplishments of the players and coaching staff made my decision to attend Embry-Riddle even easier,” she remembered.
“I... have had the absolute pleasure to play with my best friends.”
Outside of student-athlete activities, Houston is a teaching assistant for Dr. Orem, a role that has allowed her to not only gain additional experience in her research, but practice other skills such as outreach, communication and event planning.
“I always value her experience and mentorship!”
In addition to finding inspiration through her professors and peers, Houston says her family inspires her to continue to work hard and achieve her goals.
“My goals for the future include participating in another URI this spring and summer,” she shared. “It will also be focused on autism interaction with law enforcement as we plan to investigate how and when encounters end negatively.”
Tips for Success
Reflecting on her Embry-Riddle experience so far, Houston recommends that incoming students take time to focus on developing time management skills to ease the transition from high school to college.
“My advice for future students would be to develop good time management as quickly as possible,” she said.
Imagine having a support network for every essay, speech, research project or presentation. The Virtual Communication Lab is your secret weapon for conquering communication challenges.
VECTOR’s Virtual Communication LabImagine having a support network for every essay, speech, research project or presentation. The Virtual Communication Lab is your secret weapon for conquering communication challenges.Embry-Riddle is committed to providing our students with the tools they need to succeed throughout their college career and beyond with the help of our faculty, librarians, tutors and advisors.
Embry-Riddle Worldwide brings a quality education to your fingertips, wherever you are. We make distance learning feel closer with the Virtual Environment for Communication: Teaching, Outreach and Research (VECTOR).
VECTOR Perks
Operating within the College of Arts and Sciences, VECTOR’s mission is to support students’ written, spoken, visual and digital communication skills. VECTOR’s Virtual Communication Lab (VCL) empowers students and enhances their educational experience through tutoring, workshops and access to valuable online resources.
Available for Worldwide students of any major, as well as Daytona Beach and Prescott students taking online Worldwide courses, the VCL provides the support you need when you need it.
Whether you’re looking to fine-tune your presentation skills or seeking guidance on a research paper, the VCL is your go-to resource for making your ideas shine. We are dedicated to empowering students in all forms of communication – written, spoken, visual and digital – across all Worldwide courses.
Need assistance with a communication project? Our team of communication consultants stand ready to guide you through any stage of the composing process. From refining your essay topic to rehearsing your presentation delivery, we’ve got you covered. All services are completely free.
The VCL also offers engaging workshops and an extensive library of online resources. Whether you’re seeking tips on APA formatting, gaining confidence when presenting or learning how to ethically use Generative AI tools in your communication projects, the VCL provides valuable resources available anytime, anywhere.
Proven Results
Don’t just take our word for it! Here’s what Worldwide students around the globe have to say about their positive experiences with the VCL:
- "My consultant was simply amazing!"
- "I live in Australia and can connect with tutors at decent times! They are friendly and professional."
- "My tutor was exceptional in her ability and professionalism. I thank her greatly for her assistance."
- "My consultant was very helpful in explaining a literature review and how to structure one to support my research correctly."
With VECTOR’s Virtual Communication Lab, Embry‑Riddle students are not just learning – they’re soaring to new heights in communication excellence. 95% of students have said they would revisit the VCL for a tutoring appointment or recommend the VCL to their peers. 98% of students express more confidence in their communication skills after attending a VCL workshop.
Are you ready to experience the Embry‑Riddle advantage? Apply today and let us help you achieve great things.
Current Embry‑Riddle Worldwide students can access the VCL on ERNIE and schedule an appointment to meet with a consultant on Zoom.
Embry‑Riddle equips students with skills necessary for flying drones and handling autonomous systems through the Residency Program.
Setting Course: Uncrewed and Autonomous Systems Residency ProgramEmbry‑Riddle equips students with skills necessary for flying drones and handling autonomous systems through the Residency Program.The Future Is Now for Uncrewed and Autonomous Systems
Uncrewed and Autonomous Systems are changing the way we live, work and play. To thrive in this environment, organizational leaders must understand the potential, as well as the challenges, presented by this innovative and rapidly changing technology.
Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University prepares students to develop and apply the advanced technologies necessary to support the dynamic needs of the industry and help guide the policies and regulation that govern this emerging and growing field through courses offered in the Bachelor of Science in Uncrewed & Autonomous Systems, Master of Science in Uncrewed & Autonomous Systems and the Residency Program.
The Residency Program
Embry‑Riddle Worldwide Campus Department of Flight is preparing the next generation of pilots and engineers for the future of aviation through an established program called the Residency Program. The Residency Program, UNSY 435 and UNSY 520, is an elite program to train professional drone pilots to the highest industry standards. The program schedules the residency over a weekend, twice each year — once in December and once in May — travel is required as it is hosted in Daytona Beach, Florida, at the Worldwide Headquarters.
The Residency Program offers opportunities to connect with other like-minded students, faculty and professionals to form valuable networks and complete Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certifications. Students are engaged in group projects and exercises, encouraging collaboration between faculty and instructors in a face-to-face environment — which enhances the retention of online course material and boosts confidence in the ability to operate uncrewed systems. The program exposes students to diverse systems that they may have never encountered before and gain a unique hands-on experience with advanced technologies that are readily available to them. that they may have never encountered before and gain a unique hands-on experience with advanced technologies that are readily available to them.
Residency Program Testimonials
"During my time at the Residency Program, I acquired hands-on expertise in drone operations and had the opportunity to complete the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) Trusted Operator certification. The environment fostered valuable connections: enabling me to bond with peers and professors. Engaging with other students working on diverse small Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (sUAS) projects was incredibly enlightening and the network has been pivotal in shaping my path forward in the Uncrewed and Autonomous Systems (UAS) industry." - Michael Rigby (’23)
"The Residency Program really expanded my knowledge of sUAS operations and built up my confidence, which has already benefited me professionally. The Residency was outstanding from a technical and operational aspect. I got to know my colleagues, my Embry‑Riddle professors and sUAS professionals from industry and government sectors face-to-face... It was also a great networking opportunity." - Deborah Steckley (’96, ’25)
Careers in Uncrewed & Autonomous Systems
The job opportunities in the field of uncrewed systems are exciting and plentiful. By 2025, more than 100,000 jobs are projected in the uncrewed aircraft systems field alone, according to the Association of Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International. Graduates may find careers using uncrewed systems for videography, completing vital research in environments that humans can’t reach, using technology to aid wildlife conservation, using the Agricultural Drone Certification; (Part 137) that can be used for agricultural spraying and so much more.
Notable Careers in Uncrewed Systems
- Accident Investigator
- Aviation Safety Inspector - Airworthiness/Manufacturing
- Field Service Engineer
- Intelligence (Sensor Data) Analyst
- Program Manager
- Systems Engineer
- Systems Integration & Configuration Technician
- Test and Evaluation Pilot
- Remote Sensing Technologist
If you're passionate about technology and want to be a part of an exciting and innovative field, then our programs in Uncrewed & Autonomous Systems are the right choice! With the benefits and comprehensive training Embry‑Riddle offers, you'll be positioned to succeed in the industry for years to come.
Apply now and become a leader in the growing field of uncrewed and autonomous systems!
Embry‑Riddle’s unique Bachelor of Science in Communication blends essential communication skills with a foundation in STEM.
What Makes Embry‑Riddle’s Communication Program Stand Out?Embry‑Riddle’s unique Bachelor of Science in Communication blends essential communication skills with a foundation in STEM.What is the Bachelor of Science in Communication?
If you’re seeking a communication degree program, a STEM university may not be the first place you’d look. However, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers a well-rounded Bachelor of Science in Communication program designed for students with science-based communication goals.
This degree blends the art of communication with a foundation in the sciences of aviation, aerospace and technology that Embry-Riddle is known for. Students develop their written, verbal, visual and digital communication skills to communicate complex information in ways audiences can easily understand.
Students become well-versed in journalism, new media and professional writing and speaking in our dynamic curriculum covering news writing, public relations, science and technology communication and beyond.
This degree and its expert faculty are available both on our residential Daytona Beach Campus and online with our Worldwide Campus.
Why study Communication at Embry-Riddle?
The core communication courses in this program include topics on new media, communication theory, news writing, multimedia production and communication ethics, just like a communication program at any other university.
Unlike any other university, Embry-Riddle students also take a selection of classes to fulfill their aerospace, science and technology foundation. Ranging from aeronautics and environmental science to spaceflight and meteorology, Communication students are able to craft a study plan to fit their career and professional goals.
Our Daytona Beach Campus is home to an award-winning student news broadcast and newspaper. Students of any discipline are welcome to join, but these groups are particularly beneficial for Communication students interested in news media or broadcast meteorology.
Studying Communication with Worldwide means having a quality education at your fingertips, anywhere in the world. This degree program is perfect for first-time students and working professionals alike.
What can I do with a communication degree?
The B.S. in Communication will prepare you for jobs in mass media, public relations and beyond. Upon graduation, this degree program will transform you into an expert communicator, ready for a communication-based role in any industry, especially science or aerospace.
Some of these career paths include:
- Broadcast media
- Crisis communication
- Internal organization communications
- Public relations
- Scientific research writer
- Speech writing
- Sports writing
- Technical writing
Our alumni have worked or interned for companies including:
- Blue Origin
- Boeing
- Delta Air Lines
- Lockheed-Martin
- NASA
- TV stations, newspapers and magazines
How much can I make with a communication degree?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for media and communications workers is approximately $66,240, as of May 2022. There are expected to be about 114,300 annual job openings in the media and communications field over the next decade.
Public relations specialists earn a median salary of $67,440. A job in public relations can include writing press releases and speeches, helping clients communicate with the public and other tasks to maintain an organization’s public identity.
Technical writers do a variety of work communicating complex or technical information to audiences in a clear manner. Examples include journal articles, operating manuals, grant proposals and how-to guides. Technical writers make a median of $79,960 a year and growth over the next decade is anticipated to be 7%, which is faster than average.
New analysts, reporters and journalists’ median annual pay is $55,960. Journalists and reporters keep the public informed about current events and other important news across an assortment of media. They research, write and report for newspapers, websites, magazines, television or radio.
How do I get started?
Learn more about Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and start your application today!
Why study Communication at Embry‑Riddle?
The core communication courses in this program include topics on new media, communication theory, news writing, multimedia production and communication ethics, just like a communication program at any other university.
Unlike any other university, Embry‑Riddle students also take a selection of classes to fulfill their aerospace, science and technology foundation. Ranging from aeronautics and environmental science to spaceflight and meteorology, Communication students are able to craft a study plan to fit their career and professional goals.Our Daytona Beach Campus is home to an award-winning student news broadcast and newspaper. Students of any discipline are welcome to join, but these groups are particularly beneficial for Communication students interested in news media or broadcast meteorology.
Studying Communication with Worldwide means having a quality education at your fingertips, anywhere in the world. This degree program is perfect for first-time students and working professionals alike.
What can I do with a communication degree?
The B.S. in Communication will prepare you for jobs in mass media, public relations and beyond. Upon graduation, this degree program will transform you into an expert communicator, ready for a communication-based role in any industry, especially science or aerospace.
Some of these career paths include:
- Broadcast media
- Crisis communication
- Internal organization communications
- Public relations
- Scientific research writer
- Speech writing
- Sports writing
- Technical writing
Our alumni have worked or interned for companies including:
- Blue Origin
- Boeing
- Delta Air Lines
- Lockheed-Martin
- NASA
- TV stations, newspapers and magazines
How much can I make with a communication degree?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for media and communications workers is approximately $66,240, as of May 2022. There are expected to be about 114,300 annual job openings in the media and communications field over the next decade.
Public relations specialists earn a median salary of $67,440. A job in public relations can include writing press releases and speeches, helping clients communicate with the public and other tasks to maintain an organization’s public identity.
Technical writers do a variety of work communicating complex or technical information to audiences in a clear manner. Examples include journal articles, operating manuals, grant proposals and how-to guides. Technical writers make a median of $79,960 a year and growth over the next decade is anticipated to be 7%, which is faster than average.
New analysts, reporters and journalists’ median annual pay is $55,960. Journalists and reporters keep the public informed about current events and other important news across an assortment of media. They research, write and report for newspapers, websites, magazines, television or radio.
How do I get started?
Learn more about Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University, and start your application today!
By conducting applied biological research on bed bugs, Raelyn Yoshioka is learning fundamental skills that will aid her in her future career.
Applied Biology Student Uses Research to Propel into a Future in MedicineBy conducting applied biological research on bed bugs, Raelyn Yoshioka is learning fundamental skills that will aid her in her future career.Dreams of Becoming a Doctor
In high school, Raelyn Yoshioka (’25) was initially uncertain of what she wanted to study in college— believing that her dream of becoming a doctor was “unattainable.”
“I am very indecisive and was unsure of what I wanted to pursue,” recalled Yoshioka. “I was always interested in becoming a doctor because everyone looks up to doctors. I thought that was a dream that was unattainable, until I realized it wasn’t. I realized that if I really wanted to become a doctor, I just needed to put in extra work to study.”
Yoshioka’s journey to Embry-Riddle was aided by the Prescott Campus’ Academic Advising team, who provide guidance to students in planning and achieving their educational and professional goals.
“At first, I was going to study Forensic Biology, but then I found an interest in environmental science,” Yoshioka said. “My Academic Advisor, Kai Lee, told me I should switch majors to Applied Biology if I wanted to look more into environmental science. I had taken an AP environmental class in high school that I fell in love with. I didn’t know what I was getting myself into studying biology at an aeronautical university.”
Applied Science at Embry-Riddle
Embry-Riddle offers a diverse array of advanced applied science degrees with many opportunities for students to explore their own undergraduate research projects. While some degrees focus on aviation and aerospace specifically, core principles learned in any science degree can be applied to a host of industries.
“My favorite thing about my major is how small the class sizes are and how personal you get with the professors because you have the same professor for multiple classes,” Yoshioka said. “You also have the same classmates and you build a community.”
The Bachelor of Science in Applied Biology is housed within the Department of Biology and Chemistry at the Prescott Campus’ College of Arts and Sciences and focuses on giving students hands-on access to cutting-edge labs and facilities guided by experienced faculty. The program offers 20 hours of open electives, which encourages students to explore concentrations that suit their interests, such as health science, ecology, wildlife science or forensics.
“The most exciting thing about applied biology is that you learn a little bit about all the sciences,” Yoshioka said. “You don’t only take biology classes. We are also required to take chemistry classes, physics classes and much more.”
Raelyn Yoshioka standing in one of Embry-Riddle’s Bio Labs at the Prescott Campus. (Photo: Connor McShane)Exposure to Undergraduate Research
Yoshioka recently completed an undergraduate research project alongside Associate Professor of Biology Dr. Corraine McNeill, investigating the nesting habits and fabric preferences of cimex lectularius—commonly known as bed bugs.
“I knew Dr. McNeill from Bio 121. I instantly fell in love with her as a person and a teacher,” said Yoshioka. “She was just so loving, caring and passionate about her job that it made you passionate about what she was teaching. I knew that she wanted to do research, so I went up to her one day after class and asked if I could join her and that’s how we got the ball rolling.”
Their research team applied for and was awarded a grant from the Undergraduate Research Institute, a department on the Prescott Campus that seeks to promote research, scholarly and creative activities at the undergraduate level.
“My teacher had a previous student test [bed bugs] for fabric preferences; however, COVID happened and the research had to stop. So, I basically picked up where the previous student had left off.”
Don’t Let the Bed Bugs Bite
Together with Dr. McNeill and her lab partner, Yoshioka began researching which fabrics bed bugs favor. Their research could reveal the pest’s nesting preferences and lead to ways to combat infestations without the use of harmful chemicals.
“We can apply these results by gearing bed bug traps towards the fabrics they like or do the opposite and use less of the fabrics they prefer,” explained Yoshioka.
“This way of a ‘bed bug’ trap would be very efficient and not chemical based, which is better for human health because some of the pesticides they use may be toxic and it is not efficient because the exterminators could miss a spot in the house.”
The research entailed running experiments to see if the gender, life-stage, nutritional status or aggregation of the insects played a role in determining which of four fabrics the specimens preferred; 100% cotton, fleece, knit and microfiber.
“The process has been grueling,” Yoshioka admitted. “There is a lot that goes into running the experiments, outreach and putting together the final report. On top of that, you are also trying to balance schoolwork, sports and have a social life.”
The result? Females and males have differing opinions on what makes for ideal bedding.
“We concluded that female bed bugs significantly prefer cotton over male bed bugs and males significantly prefer microfiber over females,” Yoshioka concluded.
“Bed bugs may choose a certain fabric because cotton and knit are smoother than fleece, providing enough traction for bed bugs to grasp on. Fleece is looser and more tangled in nature and may not give enough traction for bed bugs to move on or through it. Males are also not able to climb as well and are smaller in size. Engorged bugs are heavier and slower, thus making it harder for them to move through thicker material such as fleece.”
Entering the Medical Field
Now that Yoshioka’s role in researching bed bug preferences has concluded, she has begun considering future areas to explore with undergraduate research.
“I hope that someone else may continue [the bed bug research] and hopefully get published one day. I do have other plans for research with another professor and group,” she said. “It will be focused on helping astronauts stay fit in space and not come back to Earth with muscle atrophy.”Undergraduate research can be a rewarding but time-consuming endeavor— and Yoshioka has advice for future students who may be interested in undertaking research of their own when they arrive at Embry-Riddle.
“Know what you want to do research in or have an idea of what you are interested in and passionate about,” she advised. “You don’t want to get stuck with research that you are not enjoying. I wish I knew how much prep time you needed to put into research. It’s not just like another class where you go to lectures and maybe a lab. You must carve out of your own time to run the experiments.”
“The value of participating in undergraduate research is just getting exposure to research and to know if it is something that you are interested in,” she added.
Exposure to research is preparing Yoshioka for her future dream job as a surgeon— a profession she once believed was ‘unattainable.’ Yoshioka’s successes in the classroom, in the lab and on the field with Embry-Riddle's Women’s Soccer Team have inspired her to consider sports medicine as her ultimate destination.
“My aspirations for the future are to go to medical school and become a surgeon because I want to help people live their best lives and continue to do things that they love to do,” she said. “I am leaning toward orthopedic and sports med because I got the opportunity to shadow an orthopedic surgeon and he deals with a lot of my soccer teammates’ injuries. It is very inspiring to see him help my teammates get back to doing what they love.”
Don’t Let the Bed Bugs Bite
Together with Dr. McNeill and her lab partner, Yoshioka began researching which fabrics bed bugs favor. Their research could reveal the pest’s nesting preferences and lead to ways to combat infestations without the use of harmful chemicals.
“We can apply these results by gearing bed bug traps towards the fabrics they like or do the opposite and use less of the fabrics they prefer,” explained Yoshioka.
“This way of a ‘bed bug’ trap would be very efficient and not chemical based, which is better for human health because some of the pesticides they use may be toxic and it is not efficient because the exterminators could miss a spot in the house.”
The research entailed running experiments to see if the gender, life-stage, nutritional status or aggregation of the insects played a role in determining which of four fabrics the specimens preferred; 100% cotton, fleece, knit and microfiber.
“The process has been grueling,” Yoshioka admitted. “There is a lot that goes into running the experiments, outreach and putting together the final report. On top of that, you are also trying to balance schoolwork, sports and have a social life.”
The result? Females and males have differing opinions on what makes for ideal bedding.
“We concluded that female bed bugs significantly prefer cotton over male bed bugs and males significantly prefer microfiber over females,” Yoshioka concluded.
“Bed bugs may choose a certain fabric because cotton and knit are smoother than fleece, providing enough traction for bed bugs to grasp on. Fleece is looser and more tangled in nature and may not give enough traction for bed bugs to move on or through it. Males are also not able to climb as well and are smaller in size. Engorged bugs are heavier and slower, thus making it harder for them to move through thicker material such as fleece.”
Entering the Medical Field
Now that Yoshioka’s role in researching bed bug preferences has concluded, she has begun considering future areas to explore with undergraduate research.
“I hope that someone else may continue [the bed bug research] and hopefully get published one day. I do have other plans for research with another professor and group,” she said. “It will be focused on helping astronauts stay fit in space and not come back to Earth with muscle atrophy.”Undergraduate research can be a rewarding but time-consuming endeavor— and Yoshioka has advice for future students who may be interested in undertaking research of their own when they arrive at Embry‑Riddle.
“Know what you want to do research in or have an idea of what you are interested in and passionate about,” she advised. “You don’t want to get stuck with research that you are not enjoying. I wish I knew how much prep time you needed to put into research. It’s not just like another class where you go to lectures and maybe a lab. You must carve out of your own time to run the experiments.”
“The value of participating in undergraduate research is just getting exposure to research and to know if it is something that you are interested in,” she added.
Exposure to research is preparing Yoshioka for her future dream job as a surgeon— a profession she once believed was ‘unattainable.’ Yoshioka’s successes in the classroom, in the lab and on the field with Embry‑Riddle's Women’s Soccer Team have inspired her to consider sports medicine as her ultimate destination.
“My aspirations for the future are to go to medical school and become a surgeon because I want to help people live their best lives and continue to do things that they love to do,” she said. “I am leaning toward orthopedic and sports med because I got the opportunity to shadow an orthopedic surgeon and he deals with a lot of my soccer teammates’ injuries. It is very inspiring to see him help my teammates get back to doing what they love.”
Embry‑Riddle: More than Aviation
Whatever your passion may be, Embry‑Riddle has a degree that can prepare you for a successful career. Ready to launch into your future? Apply today!
From playing in the bands to finishing as a finalist in NASA challenges and beyond, Graydon Russell made the most of his time at Embry‑Riddle.
The Flight to Success: Aerospace Engineering Major Tailors College Experience to Pursue PassionsFrom playing in the bands to finishing as a finalist in NASA challenges and beyond, Graydon Russell made the most of his time at Embry‑Riddle.Graydon Russell (’23) planned on attending college with a major in Astronautical Engineering, combining his interest in engineering with his fascination with extraterrestrial exploration. When he was accepted to Embry‑Riddle, his shift into Aerospace Engineering with a focus on Astronautics and a minor in Entrepreneurship was an obvious choice.
“I always knew I’d go into engineering... but aside from learning the technical side, I also wanted to understand the business side of things — management, finances, product planning and support,” Russell said. “So, I added an entrepreneurship minor as it gives a broad understanding of everything you need to know to run a business while focusing on innovation and growth within a company.”
Academic Achievement at Embry‑Riddle
On-campus, Russell has dedicated much of his time to actively participating within Embry‑Riddle's College of Business (COB). Most recently, he earned his Lean Six Sigma Yellow and Green (WIP) Belts with Dr. John Longshore and Dr. Angela Cheatham, a distinction that identifies that Russell is familiar with improving business processes and the steps to problem-solving using the Six Sigma methodology.
“I have worked with the Office of Undergraduate Research to do research with Dr. Jennifer Hinebaugh, participated in the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship with Dr. Ramy Rahimi, worked as a Student Assistant with Dean Shanan Gibson and Mrs. Janine Foster, tutored in the COB tutoring lab and advised the Professional Consulting Program as a TA while working with companies like Boeing and Textron,” Russell shared, providing an overview of his experiences at the COB and an insight into the ability of Embry‑Riddle students to work alongside experienced professors.
Apart from his COB involvement, Russell has been a member of Embry‑Riddle's Spacesuit Utilization of Innovative Technology (S.U.I.T.) Lab in the College of Aviation, working on a head’s up display that could one day be used within astronaut space suits.
“This project saw us finishing as finalists three years in a row in NASA’s SUITS Challenge. I have been leading the team over the last year and am now planning to start passing the reins as I approach graduation,” he shared, an accomplishment to be proud of.
Campus Experience
Russell has made the most of his time at Embry‑Riddle, diving deep into campus involvement and school spirit. Apart from his academic accomplishments, Russell has been a saxophone player in the Embry‑Riddle Bands (jazz and pep) and served as the jazz conductor, vice president and president of both bands throughout his career.
“Band introduced me to students from every background and degree, which gave me a network that is still my main friend group, regardless of who graduates or joins,” he said.
Outside of his involvement in the bands, Russell has made plentiful professional and personal connections and gives props to the community at Embry‑Riddle for helping him feel at home.
“I have to say it has been the people at Riddle that have made it feel like a home,” he said. “Through my academic experiences in numerous colleges, projects that bridged between both the Prescott and Daytona campuses and club interactions, I’ve gotten to know people in nearly every department at Riddle. It even became a joke among my friends that I seem to know everyone on campus.”
Russell credits his on-campus community for getting him through tough times, helping him navigate achieving his goals and aspirations and providing fun times throughout his schooling. He also shared that Dr. John Longshore, professor of business at Embry‑Riddle, has been a mentor and role model throughout his academic career.
Advice for Future Students
Russell shared advice he would give to future Eagles on finding their way, sharing that with a little effort, you can tailor your program to best align with your personal interests and goals.
“In retrospect, I should have switched to Human Factors or Space Ops, as they are more aligned with my interests,” Russell shared thoughtfully. “Even though I stuck it out in Aerospace Engineering, I’ve still adapted it to meet my interests: I found research labs in space technologies, focused class projects on topics I wanted to know more about, sought a minor in an educational field I found useful even when it was completely removed from my major and have pursued certifications and experiences in many topics that are completely different than what my degree requires, but which I find interesting and plan to use to guide my career.”
On top of his academic advice, Russell also shared advice for interpersonal and mental well-being and success.
“Find an activity you enjoy outside of your academic field. For me, it was music in the bands; for some, it is ROTC; for others, it’s weekly beach trips or game nights or anything else. Find something to get your mind off work and to have some fun,” he said. “School is challenging and time-consuming, but if you always have something to look forward to and to let your brain rest, you’ll be happier throughout and won’t burn out too fast.”
“In the end, you may think you know what you want to do and how you want to get there, but there will always be hiccups, roadblocks or unforeseen opportunities,” he shared. “Being willing and able to adapt will help you get through and find what you really DO want to do.”
Mechanical Engineering student Arjun Menon is working with fellow ASME club members on a traction control device to help make motorcycles safer.
Mechanical Engineering Student Taps Into Club Support for Motorcycle Safety ProjectMechanical Engineering student Arjun Menon is working with fellow ASME club members on a traction control device to help make motorcycles safer.Growing up in the bustling city of Mumbai, India, Mechanical Engineering major Arjun Menon (’26) got hooked on “motorcycle culture” early and began working on them when he was still a young boy. His initial fascination with internal combustion engines has grown into a passion for making motorcycles safer, particularly bikes with high horsepower or those used for adventure tours.
Taking advantage of the unique research opportunities available to undergraduates at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Arjun is now working on a project called Motorcycle Traction Control, and he is getting help from fellow members and faculty advisors who are part of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers club on campus.
We sat down with Arjun to discuss his Embry-Riddle journey, his current passion project and the benefits of joining a student club such as ASME.
Why Did You Choose Embry-Riddle for Your Mechanical Engineering Degree?
I believe the future is going to be autonomous, and Embry-Riddle offers a specialization in robotics, focusing on unmanned systems, which perfectly aligns with my interest in autonomous technology.
The M Building (Engineering Special Projects and Labs) on the Daytona Beach Campus provides all the necessary tools and resources for creating autonomous systems. Students have made autonomous cars, planes, trucks and even chess boards and lawnmowers.
The opportunity to work on diverse autonomous projects convinced me that Embry-Riddle was the ideal place to pursue my degree and work at the forefront of the autonomous revolution.
Working inside one of Embry-Riddle’s leading-edge labs, Arjun Menon researches his traction control device. (Photo: Arjun Menon)Tell Us About Your Motorcycle Traction Control Research
The traction control project offers significant benefits to motorcycles. By integrating a MATLAB simulator, I can create the perfect power outputs to improve safety and bike performance in challenging scenarios.
The project's simulator considers crucial factors such as front and rear wheel speeds, lean angle, rider and pillion weights and speed. This information enables the system to deliver appropriate power outputs, effectively preventing wheel overspin and skidding accidents.
Additionally, the traction control system excels in the difficult terrain encountered by adventure tourer bikes, such as rocky or sandy roads. By utilizing sensors and power impulses to the rear wheel, the system ensures optimal traction and prevents slippage, even on adverse surfaces.
This capability becomes particularly critical for motorcycles with power outputs exceeding 180hp, as it mitigates the potential safety hazards.
Traction control also presents several other advantages, such as allowing manufacturers to enhance the safety features of their motorcycles and make them more appealing to safety-conscious riders, while the inclusion of a reliable and effective traction control system aligns with current demand for advanced rider aids and cutting-edge technology.
What Benefits Does Joining a Club Like ASME Offer for Students?
The ASME club serves as a hub for projects focused on automobiles, robotics, biomedical devices and energy systems. With a history spanning over 140 years, ASME is more than just a school club; it is an esteemed organization founded by mechanical engineers.
ASME is the perfect mix between an SGA-run club and a fraternity house for any student from the College of Engineering.
By becoming a member, students gain access to hands-on project experiences, allowing them to develop academic and professional skills by applying theoretical knowledge to practical situations. Moreover, the club provides ample networking opportunities, connecting students with like-minded individuals who share a passion for engineering and innovation.
The ASME club also boasts renowned advisors, such as Dr. Birce Dikici and Dr. Christine Walck, who offer guidance and mentorship to students. Their wealth of experience in research enhances the quality of projects and supports students in overcoming challenges.
Participating in ASME's social events helps students expand their professional networks, develop interpersonal skills and establish valuable connections. Additionally, ASME's presence at campus career fairs demonstrates its appeal to employers, making it a valuable addition to any student's development.
What is Your Career Goal and How Will Embry-Riddle Help You Achieve It?
My goal is to launch my own startup focused on developing smart devices for automobile intelligence and IoT. I want to create innovative dashboards, displays and connected technologies that enhance user interaction with their cars and bikes.
At Embry-Riddle, our labs are equipped with an extensive range of research and development equipment, which has enabled me to explore and create the circuits, devices and structures necessary for my startup.
The most important part of the Embry-Riddle experience is an environment conducive to innovation and collaboration. The professors and clubmates I have interacted with have been incredibly supportive, offering guidance and assistance whenever I encountered challenges.
Joining the ASME club has been a particularly valuable experience, as it has provided me with a network of like-minded individuals who share my passion for technology and entrepreneurship.
In addition to this, the David B. O’Maley College of Business has the Center of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, which helps provide you with every suitable approach to establishing your own brand.
Embry‑Riddle’s entrepreneurship courses and the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship provide students with tools and support to make innovative ideas reality.
From Space to StartupsEmbry‑Riddle’s entrepreneurship courses and the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship provide students with tools and support to make innovative ideas reality.NASA T2U Program at Embry-Riddle
Using NASA’s Technology Transfer University (T2U) program, Dr. Ramy A. Rahimi, assistant professor of Entrepreneurship, is able to use NASA-developed technology in Embry-Riddle courses. He is currently using it in two undergraduate courses, Entrepreneurship I and II, and an MBA course, Venture Creation.
“Working with technology from NASA makes it easy for us because everything is post-validated intellectual property,” Rahimi said in this article from NASA. This program essentially allows students access to proven patents for the purpose of creating businesses applying the technology in a different way.
What is the purpose of using NASA technology in the classroom?
In traditional entrepreneurship, the problem is identified first, then a solution is built after. Reverse entrepreneurship, on the other hand, involves starting from the solution and working backward.
Dr. Rahimi explains how the reverse entrepreneurship method works: “Our approach involves leveraging our business model framework and access to diverse patents to identify terrestrial challenges that can be addressed using these technologies. We then strive to develop a sustainable business model that revolves around solving those problems.”
In these courses, students are encouraged to think like entrepreneurs and repurpose the NASA-developed technology while conceptualizing startup venture ideas. This is a team effort, and teams are comprised of multiple disciplines because these courses are open to students from all majors.
What are some of the startups students have created?
Entrepreneurship students have given these repurposed NASA technologies functions ranging from fuel innovation to integrity tracking to disability aids.
These startups include converting carbon dioxide gas into propane, live concussion-detecting helmets for athletes, fracture detection on old bridges and enhanced lenses that convert the visible world into audio for people with visual impairments.
What does the Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship do for students?
Banners for the 2022 TREP Expo, in which Embry-Riddle students display their venture concepts for a panel of judges. (Photo: Bernard Wilchusky)Within the David B. O’Maley College of Business is the Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (CIE), led by Dr. Rahimi. Aspiring entrepreneurs receive guidance from the CIE and benefit from valuable services that aid in the advancement of their ideas and propel them towards success.
The center is a resource for the entire university, working with any student, faculty or alumni who has an innovative idea they want to develop and lending the help of students, faculty and industry experts.
“We have 14 facilitators— facilitators are junior or senior students who have completed my entrepreneurship classes, demonstrated an interest in entrepreneurship, and received training through CIE’s onboarding program,” Rahimi explained. In addition, our alumni network and the members of the CIE Board of Advisors are also available to provide expert assistance.
The CIE’s programming encompasses various programs and events that include:
- TREP Expo in the fall, open to the Embry-Riddle community
- Launch Your Venture in the spring, open to any Florida college students
- ESHIP Tech Talk in the spring, featuring Embry-Riddle student-led startups
- Several accelerator programs, including four-week intensive Test Flight Bootcamps
What makes Embry-Riddle’s entrepreneurship programming unique?
While other colleges may have similar programs and centers, Embry-Riddle’s advantage comes from being a STEM university with university-scale resources.
“Embry-Riddle is equipped with multiple labs and possesses top-notch expertise, enabling us to perform all tasks in-house. We have the capability to build any prototype we desire without relying on external resources,” said Dr. Rahimi.
Rahimi’s entrepreneurship classes also offer diversity of disciplines amongst the students; “Our classes are designed to accommodate students from various majors, allowing for a diverse range of students in a single class,” from aviation to business to engineering. Students of different disciplines work together with their respective knowledge of their areas of study.
Innovation Across the Country
Both our Prescott and Daytona Beach Campuses are ranked highly in innovation by U.S. News & World Report, as No. 1 and No. 2, respectively.
Do you have an entrepreneurial mindset? Want to learn more about the opportunities for innovation at Embry-Riddle? Explore our business degrees.
Kirsten Bauernschmidt is earning an M.S. in Human Factors at Embry‑Riddle and is on the team at Relativity Space that launched the world’s first 3-D printed rocket.
Embry Riddle Student Helps Launch Worlds First 3D Printed RocketKirsten Bauernschmidt is earning an M.S. in Human Factors at Embry‑Riddle and is on the team at Relativity Space that launched the world’s first 3-D printed rocket.Kirsten Bauernschmidt ('23) graduated from Embry‑Riddle with her bachelor’s degree in 2021, with a major in Spaceflight Operations and a minor in Human Factors, the latter of which she chose to study in-depth for her master’s degree.
During her professional development journey, Bauernschmidt has worked as an intern for the U.S. House of Representatives Aviation Subcommittee, as an ATO Space Operations intern for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and now as a Government Affairs intern at Relativity Space.
In her current position, Bauernschmidt works as a Range Coordinator, who functions as a liaison between government regulatory agencies (like the Space Force and the FAA) and her employer. Her main responsibility is to ensure her team is functioning in compliance with all launch and rocket regulations.
“We have to stay compliant with several regulations... On console, I sit as a Range Coordinator (RC) in the firing room where vehicle commands are sent,” she shared. The RC interfaces with all issues on the Range that may impact the launch, such as weather, instrumentation, air/sea surveillance and more.
“The FAA and our Range partners also sit on console for launch to monitor compliance and help us maintain a safe launch configuration...” she continued. “There are a lot of things I do. That's what makes it so exciting.”
At Relativity Space, Bauernschmidt just helped launch the world’s first 3-D printed rocket.
Why Launch a 3-D Printed Rocket?
Bauernschmidt cites a few reasons why 3-D printed rocket technology is valuable.
“It's truly innovative. A lot of companies use 3-D printing for smaller parts because it's easier than ordering it and waiting. We decided to go big with that,” she
shared. “It’s 100x fewer parts manufacturing-wise and 10x faster production because we can print things as one piece versus buying multiple components off theshelf.”
On top of streamlining the manufacturing process, 3-D printed rocket components offer a sense of project security because if a part breaks, they can print another. It also allows for greater ability to test and replace different components to continuously improve functionality. Terran 1, the rocket at Relativity Space, was 85% composed of 3-D printed materials.
On Relativity Space’s third attempt, Terran 1 successfully launched. The main indicator of success? Terran 1 passing Max-Q, which produces the maximum amount of stress on the rocket.
The World of 3-D Printed Rockets
Next, the team at Relativity Space will begin work on Terran R, a reasonably larger rocket, whose “R” stands for reusable. The next goals are for the rocket to be able to transport medium to large payloads and to begin launching satellites and other payloads for clients.
Bauernschmidt's plans are intertwined with the production of Terran R.
“It's crazy to even say this, but I'm in the perfect dream job I've always wanted. I've wanted to be on the government side of things but also boots on the ground at the pad. And I never really knew how I could do that. Somehow, I opened this door.” Bauernschmidt said. “I just want to stay here and see what's next for Terran R... the future is staying here. For as long as possible.”
The Embry‑Riddle Advantage
Bauernschmidt also gave props to her Embry‑Riddle education.
“I have to give Riddle credit for giving me the opportunity to have my first internship on the Hill with Congress, which ultimately got me here,” she gushed. “That has been more than I could ever ask for: giving me the opportunity to have the best job in the world as an intern and, hopefully, forever. It's put me in a position where I'm going to be able to do really cool things.”
Her advice to other students wanting to end up in their dream jobs: “Follow your passion and get internships!”
You can watch the Terran 1 launch by clicking here!
The World of 3-D Printed Rockets
Next, the team at Relativity Space will begin work on Terran R, a reasonably larger rocket, whose “R” stands for reusable. The next goals are for the rocket to be able to transport medium to large payloads and to begin launching satellites and other payloads for clients.
Bauernschmidt's plans are intertwined with the production of Terran R.
“It's crazy to even say this, but I'm in the perfect dream job I've always wanted. I've wanted to be on the government side of things but also boots on the ground at the pad. And I never really knew how I could do that. Somehow, I opened this door.” Bauernschmidt said. “I just want to stay here and see what's next for Terran R... the future is staying here. For as long as possible.”
The Embry‑Riddle Advantage
Bauernschmidt also gave props to her Embry‑Riddle education.
“I have to give Riddle credit for giving me the opportunity to have my first internship on the Hill with Congress, which ultimately got me here,” she gushed. “That has been more than I could ever ask for: giving me the opportunity to have the best job in the world as an intern and, hopefully, forever. It's put me in a position where I'm going to be able to do really cool things.”
Her advice to other students wanting to end up in their dream jobs: “Follow your passion and get internships!”
You can watch the Terran 1 launch by clicking here!
You won’t find these unique and innovative graduate programs anywhere else!
Graduate Programs Offered Exclusively at Embry‑RiddleYou won’t find these unique and innovative graduate programs anywhere else!
Master of Science in Space Operations – Daytona Beach, Florida, and Worldwide campus
Have you ever dreamed of soaring through space or being on the team that launches a revolutionary rocket? Do you want to become a leader in space research and exploration?
The M.S. in Space Operations on our Daytona Beach Campus launched in fall 2023. Students pursue advanced coursework covering a variety of topics, including earth observation, space mission and launch operations, space habitation, space ecosystems, satellite communications, cybersecurity, space technology and space law.
This program was created to help meet the growing need for space professionals with master’s level education. According to research from Bank of America, the global space economy is projected to grow to $1.1 trillion by 2030 due to the commercialization and privatization of spaceflight, the desire to return to the moon and potential upcoming opportunities for Mars exploration.
The Master in Space Operations with our Worldwide Campus is offered entirely online, with flexibility that allows students to complete their coursework on their own time while maintaining prior commitments, like work or family life. Students explore key areas of space missions and operations and graduate well-prepared for success in the aerospace industry.
With Embry-Riddle's unparalleled access to innovative technology and networking opportunities with industry professionals, students who pursue an M.S. in Space Operations will graduate as experts in their field with a strong competitive advantage in their career journey.
Master of Science in Security and Intelligence – Prescott, Arizona, campus
Housed on our Prescott Campus, M.S. in Security and Intelligence Studies, this program gives students one-of-a-kind opportunities to gain expertise within multiple aspects of the field, such as intelligence analysis, military and political studies, law enforcement, corporate security and cyber intelligence security.
Students choose an Area of Concentration (AOC); Security, Intelligence, or dual Security and Intelligence. Each AOC directs students down a different path of targeted studies based on their individual interests and offers in-depth research opportunities in preferred aspects of the field.
The Intelligence AOC focuses on intelligence analysis in both domestic and international affairs, counterintelligence and world cultures. It is recommended for students who wish to enter careers in government or with political and international organizations.
The Security AOC focuses on studies of corporate security, counterintelligence and various forms of security management. It is recommended for those wishing to enter careers in all forms of law enforcement as well as security management.
The dual Security and Intelligence AOC combines the best of both worlds and allows students to study topics such as intelligence analysis and practice, corporate security, international affairs, security management, world cultures and counterintelligence. It is recommended for those interested in understanding the combination of security and intelligence and how each can be practiced in relation to the other.
Ph.D. in Aviation – Daytona Beach, Florida campus – online
As the world’s largest aviation-oriented university, Embry-Riddle offers an exclusive doctoral degree in Aviation dedicated to producing scholars who are experienced in cutting-edge research and perform exceptionally in many facets of the aviation industry.
This program offers four unique areas of specialization, which exist to offer students a personalized, engaging experience while completing their doctoral coursework, residency and dissertation.
Four Specializations:
- Aviation Safety: Focuses on safety management systems, safety management practices, tools in aviation and aviation safety regulations.
- Aviation Human Factors: Focuses on human factors principles, human factors practices in aviation and human-centered design concepts for existing and developing aviation technologies.
- Aviation Operations: Focuses on current and projected trends in aviation, operations research, decision-making tools, diverse team operations and aviation organizational dynamics.
- Intradisciplinary: Designed with students who have a broader interest in aviation, this specialization offers a cross-disciplinary approach to aviation where each student can build a multi-faceted curriculum appropriate for their educational needs.
The Omics Lab at Embry‑Riddle gives student researchers the chance to explore the effects of space travel on the human body.
Omics Lab is a Hub for Aerospace Physiology ExplorationThe Omics Lab at Embry‑Riddle gives student researchers the chance to explore the effects of space travel on the human body.
Omics Lab for Health and Human Performance
Boldly going where no one has gone before takes more than just a mastery of space travel. It also takes the knowledge that can help humans stay healthy once they leave the planet.
That is among the many goals of the unique Omics Lab for Health and Human Performance at Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University. The lab, located in the College of Arts & Sciences building, gives student researchers interested in Aerospace Physiology the chance to conduct analysis on various organisms, including humans.
In biology, omics refers to the global evaluation of a cell through multiple disciplines, including genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics. In addition, cellular and molecular pathways and processes that govern cellular functions are also important areas of research.
The Omics Lab offers many molecular- and cellular-based research opportunities for students and collaborators focused on life sciences in extreme environments.
Dr. Amber Paul, is a Embry‑Riddle Wessel endowed assistant professor of Aerospace Physiology in the Department of Human Factors and Behavioral Neurobiology, and director of the facility. She previously was a NASA postdoctoral Space Biology Program fellow at NASA Ames Research Center and her current research is in part supported by NASA Human Research Program Human Factors and Behavioral Performance Element.
Dr. Paul took time out to discuss the lab and the unparalleled opportunities it offers students to take part on groundbreaking space-related discoveries.
Why does the Embry‑Riddle Omics Lab study life in space?
The extreme environment of aerospace can induce physiological stress in animals. My research interests include understanding how the physiological stress response influences the mammalian immune system, as there are some fascinating integrations between endocrine stress hormones and immune cells when exposed to chronic physiological stressors. Considering not only the type, but the timeframe (acute verses chronic) of physiological stress that influences immune dysregulation, is a primary interest of mine.
What opportunities does the lab provide prospective students?
The Omics Lab utilizes many molecular-based tools to address life science questions. This is the first time Embry‑Riddle has housed a biosafety level II cell culture facility to address these types of questions.
Further, extension of techniques with next generation sequencing enhances the student experience, as the Omics Lab houses state-of-the-art instruments, including an Illumina NextSeq1000. Similar to life science- and clinical-focused universities, students in the Omics Lab are exposed to molecular and cellular techniques that can provide an advantage for career development in study of life sciences.
My lab also participates in collaborations and NASA-funded projects, including spaceflight and ground studies, which provides extraordinary opportunities for student involvement. We also engage with facilities at NASA centers for experimental- and tour-based purposes, which are prime sites for student involvement in aerospace-related life sciences research. In addition, we utilize open science data repositories, such as NASA Open Science for Life in Space and NASA GeneLab to educate students on how to process and perform bioinformatics on life sciences samples exposed to spaceflight environments.
Which students would benefit most from working in the lab and why?
Students focused on life sciences, including students interested in biomedical design and bioinformatics. As part of the Aerospace Physiology program, with efforts to expand into engineering, physical, and data sciences realms, students currently within these areas of sciences would benefit from the Omics Lab.
Aside from development of molecular and cellular techniques, there are many opportunities for project advancement that include bioengineering, such as 3D tissue chip designs, biometrics monitoring, and analysis of large-scale biological datasets generated from the sequencing power in the Omics Lab.
What are examples of careers students could pursue with their lab experience?
Cellular and molecular techniques learned in the Omics Lab are universal within clinical, academic and government research labs that focus on life sciences. Techniques such as genetic isolation, purification, and sequencing, cell culture aseptic methods, and flow cytometric analysis, to name a few.
All of them are valuable practices that are applicable in many research-based programs, facilities, and industries involved in biological and molecular sciences.
How does the lab prepare students for success?
Aside from research techniques, which are valuable for career development, students have the opportunity to participate in project-focused research, enabling critical thinking skills and generation of scientific hypotheses to carry out research queries.
Further, participation in conferences and symposiums to expand communication and presentation skills, as well as social networking, are also in part of the student experience. In addition, based on the level of involvement in research, peer-reviewed scientific publications are possible deliverables for student career development success in the Omics Lab.
What are some practical applications for Omics Lab research?
Aside from scientific research, the opportunities to learn important techniques and instrumentation capabilities are also a practical application in the lab.
For example, one student is currently designing fluidics and optical settings that are involved with the flow cytometer instrument with a career goal of engineering a more user-friendly instrument. Similar directives for next-generation sequencing and bioinformatics learning are also possible.
Why is the Omics Lab important to Embry‑Riddle?
The Omics Lab diversifies the university’s expansion into life sciences with a focus in aerospace and aeronautics. Opportunities in the Omics Lab for student involvement in biological research bridge the gap between aerospace and terrestrial life sciences.
Recent students who have been part of the Omics Lab are currently government contractors, enrolled in medical school or academic graduate studies and research institutions, and are interning within aerospace companies and government contractor positions, enabling development of next generation space (and terrestrial) biologists.
Hailey Murray chose to study Space Physics at Embry‑Riddle because she was excited about learning and growing within the field. Now, she has not only grown, but flourished.
Pure Math and Space PhysicsHailey Murray chose to study Space Physics at Embry‑Riddle because she was excited about learning and growing within the field. Now, she has not only grown, but flourished.When the time came for Hailey Murray ('25) to apply for college, Embry‑Riddle was an obvious choice. Murray was motivated to get involved in academic research and had an evergreen interest in physics and math, so the Space Physics program presented an opportunity to pursue many of her passions under the umbrella of one major.
Intersections Between Math and Physics
Talking about her interest in the program, Murray said, “Knowing that this major had a lot of rigorous math courses that you have to take was something that I was actually pretty excited about; to learn more math and to learn how that math can apply in physics.”
Since then, Murray has entered a world of research and knowledge that welcomed her with open arms. As a sophomore, she became President of the Math Club on the Prescott Campus and regularly works alongside research-active professors.
On top of this, Murray is a TA for the physics lab courses on her campus. She says the experience has been extremely valuable for gaining experience communicating physics concepts to others, which in turn expands her own understanding of her studies.
Pure Math
In January 2023, Murray attended the Conference for Undergraduate Women in Math at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. There, nearly 300 women (who are often underrepresented in mathematics research and professions) came together to highlight their own research, promote attendees seeking jobs within the field of mathematics and encourage the pursuit of graduate studies.
At the conference, Murray presented a poster of her work, which was “about classifying quantum adjacency matrices, which are essentially a way of describing relationships between different things in a quantum system.”
Dr. Lara Ismert, Murray's professor, mentor and research group leader, said that Murray’s project was “the real of pure math” and that Murray “is methodical in her calculations and is very intentional about understanding the deeper math behind the code she has developed to support our challenging matrix computations.”
Inspiration at Embry‑Riddle
When asked about who inspires her, Murray gave credit to Dr. Ismert, as well as her other professors Dr. Mitch Hamidi and Dr. Quentin Bailey. Murray also talked about finding inspiration amongst her peers in a room on campus dubbed by students as “The Cave,” where students will go to work on homework, connect with others and collaborate on various tasks.
Murray, who has excelled in her studies, shared her advice for those who aim to do the same:
The STAR Lab at Embry‑Riddle offers students the chance to be part of cutting-edge research using human subjects to investigate and better understand the psychology of teams.
Next Level LabsThe STAR Lab at Embry‑Riddle offers students the chance to be part of cutting-edge research using human subjects to investigate and better understand the psychology of teams.Exploring the Intersection of Teams and Technology
Teamwork makes the world work and exploring how diverse groups of people mesh in a range of situations is vital for discovering ways that enable today’s teams to function with enhanced cohesion, synergy and safety.
“The STAR Lab allows us to study teams in a more experimental setting which gives us a lot more control,” said Dr. Joseph Keebler, the lab’s director and an associate professor of Human Factors and Behavioral Neurobiology in the College of Arts & Sciences. “Students get the whole gamut of doing experimental research on teams – from designing experiments to analyzing data and writing up articles and conference presentations - while working under us. Even if they don't do this as a scientific endeavor, they gain practical knowledge and skills as well.”
Dr. Scott Shappell, professor and chair of the Department of Human Factors and Behavioral Neurobiology, said that as “the cornerstone of such diverse industries as aviation and healthcare, teamwork can make or break success.”
“Essentially none of us will find ourselves working alone,” Shappell added. “We will all be part of a team, which makes the work that Dr. Keebler and others do in the STAR lab essential.”
Located in the College of Arts & Sciences building, the STAR Lab was established in 2015 to help conduct human factors research for NASA and work on other industry-focused projects related to how teams interact with each other and also with technology.
The STAR Lab is part of the Game-Based Education & Advanced Research Studies (GEARS) suite of labs and Dr. Keebler, who also is co-director of the Research Engineering and Applied Collaborations in Healthcare (REACH) Lab, took over STAR in 2017.
All of the research has immediate real-world applications, which means it also offers the kind of real-world practical experience that sets Embry‑Riddle students apart when it comes to launch their career or move on to pursuing a master’s or Ph.D.
The methods for exploring the inner workings of teams are varied and one of them are also fun, in a Final Frontier kind of way.
“We use some video games for team research, and one in particular is called Artemis, which simulates the bridge of the starship on ‘Star Trek,’” Dr. Keebler said. “It allows each team member to control a different aspect of a spaceship and each person relies on two or three other people to get the job done. We call that interdependence and that allows us to study teams in this neat gaming environment, but we’re actually studying things that matter in the real world.”
Lab Impacts on Healthcare
Dr. Keebler and STAR have set a high bar in establishing Embry‑Riddle as a thought leader in this vital area, and also when it comes to securing funding for research. The lab is a prolific source of published findings, and undergraduates are encouraged to contribute to that mission so that they can begin building stronger professional or academic networks.
Much of the current and upcoming research at the STAR Lab is now focused on how teams function in the high-stakes world of healthcare.
“We all have experienced difficulty and success working within a team,” Dr. Shappell said. “Dr. Keebler and his colleagues in the STAR lab, which include faculty and students, apply science to enhance team performance, identify where threats to success exist and demonstrate the power of human factors in carrying out tasks.”
One project submitted to the Army Research Institute involves collaborating with the University of Florida's Medical School to explore how medical teams deal with major disasters, while another investigation for the Defense Health Agency examines the high-stakes communication event, commonly known as a “handoff”, as patients are passed from one clinical team to another.
The lab is also examining how artificial intelligence can be used to spot teamwork issues before they grow into larger problems.
“There's a lot of myths about teamwork,” Dr. Keebler said. “People think they understand it and they really don't, and it requires rigorous measurement and careful study to actually understand where problems are with your team and then to fix those through team training.”
For students excited about the possibility of immersing themselves in such important and respected research, the STAR Lab is a standout when it comes to providing real-world experience and opportunities for professional growth.
As Dr. Keebler says: “If you want to study teamwork at the intersection of modern technology and applied systems, I cannot think of a better program in the world than ours.”
Alex Britton is the CEO of his own LLC, CerebriTech, researching real-time concussion detection in athletes.
Student CEO is Making a DifferenceAlex Britton is the CEO of his own LLC, CerebriTech, researching real-time concussion detection in athletes.
Entrepreneurial Origins
Looking for a university that brought together STEM and baseball, Alex Britton ('24) says choosing Embry‑Riddle was a no-brainer. The student-athlete is a Mechanical Engineering major with a focus on biomedical systems. What drew him to this path was a desire to help people with math and science.
He learned in class about technology that detected cognitive function in pilots, which led him to begin to consider how the same systems could be applied to concussion research, specifically in athletes. This was the conception of CerebriTech, LLC.
Britton and his team of two other students were recently given the opportunity to work with StarterStudio, a nonprofit that assists tech startups and gives entrepreneurs resources to aid their development.
“It was an awesome program because that was advice from industry experts that I could have never gotten from anywhere else,” he said.
Britton’s motivation behind the project is the younger generation of athletes. He wants them to be more aware of the severity of concussions and protect them from the consequences. From abnormal aggression to severe depression, the effects of brain damage are not to be taken lightly.
What does he say is the most rewarding part of his research so far?
SAIL has a long history of research and engineering milestones that have helped students land rewarding careers with stellar employers that include Google, Lockheed Martin and more.
Next Level Labs: Space and Atmospheric Instrumentation Lab (SAIL)SAIL has a long history of research and engineering milestones that have helped students land rewarding careers with stellar employers that include Google, Lockheed Martin and more.Students Soar Where "the Sky is No Limit"
Whether it’s launching rockets from the world’s northernmost settlement, exploring the potential of fusion as a future power source, or building hardware for satellites that will orbit Mars, SAIL offers opportunities for students to get their hands on the future — literally.
“SAIL is one of the most research rich laboratories on the Embry‑Riddle campus,” said Dr. Aroh Barjatya, professor of Engineering Physics and the lab’s founder and director. “Hard-working, capable and bright students have an opportunity to either join the ongoing research or propose their own.”
What degree programs use SAIL?
SAIL was started in 2007 when Dr. Barjatya arrived at the university, and its mission was to give students pursuing degrees in Engineering Physics, Space Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering a place to do hands-on research work and get the practical experience that today’s top flight employers are looking for.
"Dr. Barjatya has built a world-class lab in space and atmospheric research,” said Dr. Peter Hoffmann, dean and professor of Physics at the College of Arts & Sciences. “The most impressive and important feature is how student-driven it is. Students design, build and deploy the hardware around the world to do cutting-edge research. This is a prime example of how Embry‑Riddle and the College of Arts and Sciences provide opportunities for students that would be difficult to find anywhere else."
The lab, located in the College of Arts & Sciences building, has since grown to include two more faculty members, Dr. Jeremy Riousset and Dr. Byonghoon Seo, along with Research Scientists Dr. Robert Clayton and Dr. Shantanab Debchoudhury.
SAIL has a long history of research and engineering milestones that have helped students land rewarding careers with stellar employers that include Google, Lockheed Martin, the Goddard Space Flight Center and MIT’s Lincoln Labs, to name a few.
What do students do in SAIL?
Within just the past two years, SAIL students have been involved in pioneering projects that have included:
- Two recent NASA sounding rocket launches, one in far-north Ny Ålesund, Norway, and another at NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia.
- Using a $670,000 federal grant to research technology that could make thermonuclear fusion power generation economically viable.
- Building, calibrating and configuring instruments for CubeSats under an international collaboration with the University of Chile, with the CubeSats launched into Earth orbit by SpaceX last year.
- Developing hardware for the ESCAPADE spacecrafts, which are scheduled to explore the Martian atmosphere in 2026.
The lab’s full suite of equipment and facilities also allows students to pursue research in a variety of ground-based vacuum and plasma chambers, or onboard many different types of high-altitude balloons, suborbital sounding rockets and orbital satellites.
“We have opportunities for doing plasma physics modeling or atmospheric physics modeling, as well as a large dataset from past missions to pursue unanswered science questions related to terrestrial weather and space weather phenomenon,” Dr. Barjatya added.
What opportunities do students get in SAIL?
While on the island of Svalbard, which is about midway between the Norwegian mainland and the North Pole, Dr. Aroh Barjatya and students Nathan Graves and Henry Valentine rested on a small chunk of ice freshly broken off from a glacier while taking a swim in arctic waters. (Photos: NASA/Berit Bland, Aroh Barjatya)For those students who arrive at Embry‑Riddle within the next two years, the SAIL schedule is already packed with opportunities for research and field work that would not be available to undergraduates at any other school.
“SAIL is pursuing a variety of projects using the plasma chambers: novel plasma sources for fusion and magnetospheric research under Dr. Seo, lightening physics and electric discharges on Earth and throughout the solar system under Dr. Riousset, and novel plasma diagnostics under Dr. Clayton and Dr. Debchoudhury,” Dr. Barjatya said. “We also have 10 upcoming sounding rocket launches in the next 15 months, including rocket launches during the upcoming annular eclipse in October 2023 and total eclipse in April 2024.”
SAIL can also provide seed funding for promising projects proposed and pursued by capable and independent students.
“As long as they convince me that it's worth investing SAIL’s resources, I will,” Dr. Barjatya said.
When it comes to actually working in the lab, SAIL is renowned for a collaborative environment and currently has over a dozen students ranging from sophomores to Ph.D. candidates, and any new students will immediately benefit from working alongside more experienced lab mates willing to share their knowledge and skill.
Whatever role students end up playing in SAIL, Dr. Barjatya expects them to love what they do and be willing to work hard at it. He also expects they will have aptitude to ask the right questions related to a problem, develop actionable plans and have a “can-do and relentless work ethic.”
SAIL is currently funding four Ph.D. students, three master’s students and about a dozen undergraduates, and Dr. Barjatya said there is always room for more.
“This is not a 9 to 5 with weekends off environment,” he said. “There should be that willingness to do whatever it takes because [students] realize that they are doing something so cool and so amazing that it’s not a job but an opportunity to pursue their passions.”
Students Jonas Rowan, Peter Ribbens and Marco Avila with Assistant Professor Dr. Byonghoon Seo in front of the plasma chamber. (Photo: Embry‑Riddle / Bill Fredette-Huffman)
At Embry‑Riddle's Prescott, AZ, campus, we are committed to providing students with opportunities to engage in hands-on, faculty-led research in their chosen fields.
Undergraduate Research and Discovery at the Prescott CampusAt Embry‑Riddle's Prescott, AZ, campus, we are committed to providing students with opportunities to engage in hands-on, faculty-led research in their chosen fields.Embry-Riddle's Prescott Campus is home to the Undergraduate Research Institute (URI), whose mission is to promote hands-on student research at the undergraduate level. The URI provides more than $100,000 annually in funding for student research and development and in competitive-based grants, including our Eagle Prize (or E-Prize), funding teams of students to develop material and attend competitions around the world.
Students participating in undergraduate research benefit from many academic and professional advantages, according to Space Physics alumna Sophia Schwalbe ('17), who continues to leverage her undergraduate research in her post-doctorate studies:
Dr. Anne Boettcher (right) and the URI hosted Dr. Anisa Vahed (left), a Fulbright Visiting Scholar and faculty member at Durban Institute of Technology, who's Fulbright Research focused on advancing undergraduate research by embedding it into course curriculum. (Photo: Embry-Riddle / Connor McShane)Dr. Anne Boettcher, Ph.D., Director of Undergraduate Research Institute for the Prescott campus, assists students in strengthening their resumes and research skills by connecting them with grants, funding and faculty experts. Dr. Boettcher shared a few of the insights and experiences she’s gained as Director of URI, and the benefits that students can expect in return for pursuing their own undergraduate research.
What is the mission of URI?
The URI promotes research, scholarly and creative activities at the undergraduate level. By enhancing critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills, URI helps to prepare Embry-Riddle students to contribute as productive individuals, employees and citizens. We facilitate interactions with industry and community partners as students build their professional network. URI is university-wide and invites students and faculty from all disciplines to participate.
What do students gain by developing their own research as undergraduates?
Students who participate in undergraduate research gain hands-on research experience. They strengthen their resumes and build key skills that industry is looking for. The National Association of Colleges and Employers career readiness competencies include communication, critical thinking, equity & inclusion, leadership, professionalism, teamwork and technology as vital to students’ future success, all of which can be gained by participation in research.
How is research at Embry-Riddle different from other universities?
Due to its unique focus on aviation and aerospace, research opportunities afforded students at Embry-Riddle are unique. For example, our Rocket Development Lab allows students to move from early-stage design and fabrication of rockets through test fire and launch, with the capabilities of the test cells being unique among undergraduate institutions.
What have been some standout projects you’ve seen during your time as director of URI?
I am continually amazed at what our students accomplish and how they contribute to the community. Some of our current projects include our second CubeSat (EagleSat2), which is preparing for launch in 2023; the development and implementation of a cyber competition (CyberAero) for regional high school students; testing of improved training approaches for English to second-language pilots; and astronomy research on a high-mass X-ray binary and its evolution, which will be published in the prestigious journal Nature.
What advice would you have for high school students interested in research?
The best advice is to be open to the opportunities offered both in high school and as you transition to college. Research is for everyone and even if you do not think a specific project will help move you towards your career goals or that you are not qualified, you would be surprised at how the diversity of what you experience can open new opportunities.
Incoming students should attend our Student Organization Fair to see what types of research is going on with student clubs, make an appointment with the URI to discuss additional options and meet with faculty to talk about research they are conducting.
Would you like to learn more about research opportunities at our Arizona Campus? Visit the Undergraduate Research Institute to learn more.
The world of cybersecurity is vast and ever-growing. With Embry‑Riddle's cybersecurity degree programs, students can explore their unique interests while gaining invaluable skills and experience for a successful future.
See Yourself in CybersecurityThe world of cybersecurity is vast and ever-growing. With Embry‑Riddle's cybersecurity degree programs, students can explore their unique interests while gaining invaluable skills and experience for a successful future. It’s no surprise cybersecurity is a major part of our daily life. From taking simple steps to secure our personal information to major strategic plans protecting our nation’s critical infrastructure and beyond, cybersecurity is limitless. However, there was a global shortage of cybersecurity professionals in 2021 and currently, there are more than 700,000 cybersecurity-related job openings in the U.S. in 2022 – why is that?
One major contributor is the lack of professionals with the training, education and experience necessary to enter or grow with the ever-changing industry. At Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University, we’re addressing this need through our in-person and online undergraduate, graduate and professional certification programs in cybersecurity. Our cyber degree paths include cyber intelligence and security, IT security, cybersecurity engineering, aviation cybersecurity and much more.If you are considering a career in cybersecurity, review the questions below to better understand your interests and how Embry‑Riddle can help prepare you for a successful career in this high-demand field.
Why is cybersecurity important?
The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) defines cybersecurity as the practice of being protected against the criminal or unauthorized use of electronic data, or the measures taken to achieve this.
Information sharing is constant. Whether public or private, between friends, within corporations or among nations, it is occurring and susceptible to malware, hackers or social engineering attacks. Cybersecurity is necessary to protect data and prevent or mitigate such attacks.
What area of cybersecurity am I most interested in?
Whether you are interested in a certain industry or specialization within cybersecurity, there’s plenty of different areas to choose from. A few of the many industries hiring cybersecurity graduates are e-commerce, healthcare, finance and transportation, including aerospace. From there, you can decide whether you prefer a career in the public or private sector.
Cybersecurity specializations include, but aren’t limited to, operating and maintaining, oversight and development, protect and defend, securely provision, collect and operate, analyze and investigate, according to the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE).
What level of education will I need to work in cybersecurity?
Depending on the cyber-industry or organization you are looking to work for, you may want to consider a certification or a bachelor’s degree related to the cybersecurity field.
At Embry‑Riddle, you can build a foundation for cybersecurity in our undergraduate security and intelligence programs. Our Bachelor of Science in Cyber Intelligence and Security is accredited by the ABET-CAC and prepares graduates to defend the networks that keep the world safe and productive. If you’re looking to advance your education in cybersecurity, we offer several graduate programs including our Master’s in Aviation Cybersecurity, Master of Science in Cyber Intelligence and Security, and M.S. in Cybersecurity Engineering.
How else can I prepare to enter a successful career in cybersecurity?
Within Embry‑Riddle's cybersecurity degree programs, you will work alongside expert faculty who have decades of experience from professional institutions such as the CIA, FBI, the U.S. Military as well as the private sector.
Combined with our state-of-the-art labs including the Cyber Lab, the Cybersecurity Engineering Lab or the Cybersecurity Virtual Laboratory, along with cyber- and security-focused student organizations, internships and hack-a-thon competitions, students gain valuable experience before entering the industry.
What are examples of cybersecurity roles?
Today, there are countless opportunities in the cybersecurity industry. Here are just a few:
- Cybersecurity Specialist
- Cyber Crime Analyst
- Incident and Intrusion Analyst
- IT Auditor
- Cybersecurity Engineer
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Cybersecurity Consultant
- Penetration and Vulnerability Tester
- Cybersecurity Manager
- Cybersecurity Architect
Why should I choose Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University?
At Embry‑Riddle, we’re more than our renowned aeronautics and STEM degree programs. We provide the nation’s first and only College of Business, Security and Intelligence at our Prescott Campus and were recently selected to join a new elite U.S. Cyber Command Network to help strengthen ties between CYBERCOM and higher education, including associated research.
If you’re looking to advance your education and skills, consider our Daytona Beach and Worldwide campuses for master’s degree programs in cybersecurity. Our Daytona Beach Campus offers students a Master of Science in Cybersecurity Engineering and is home to the Cybersecurity Engineering Laboratory (CybEL), which offers state-of-the-art hardware and software for cybersecurity attack and defense exercises. For students seeking flexible and online options, consider a Master of Aviation Cybersecurity through Embry‑Riddle Worldwide.
If you’re ready to take the first step toward a future in cybersecurity, consider applying to Embry‑Riddle today!
Computer Engineering major and international graduate Teja Tiriveedhi took advantage of Embry‑Riddle's many academic and social opportunities to help enrich his academics and adjust to life in a new country.
Computer Engineering: Building a Nest of OpportunitiesComputer Engineering major and international graduate Teja Tiriveedhi took advantage of Embry‑Riddle's many academic and social opportunities to help enrich his academics and adjust to life in a new country.From India to Embry‑Riddle's Computer Engineering Program
Teja Tiriveedhi’s father grew up in India and dreamed of being a student at Embry‑Riddle, but due to circumstances beyond his control, he was unable to attend. So, you can imagine how thrilled he was when Teja was accepted, and he was able to see his son become an Eagle.
Tiriveedhi always had an interest in technology and computers, which drew him to major in Computer Engineering.
He honed his machine learning and programming skills working on the Turtle Tech project, a drone-based sea turtle surveillance effort between Embry‑Riddle, Northrop Grumman and the Brevard Zoo. The project tracks the turtles and soon technology will enable scientists to individually identify the turtles by species, gender and individual markings, by using uncrewed autonomous vehicles (UAVs). This will allow conservation efforts to be conducted without disrupting wildlife.
Tiriveedhi’s role included writing machine-learning algorithms based on UAVs to identify and track sea turtles. These algorithms indicate whether the image is a sea turtle, mark the location and save the image. From there, the data is compiled, and the turtle is given an identification.
Succeeding at Embry‑Riddle
Tiriveedhi also took advantage of Embry‑Riddle's study abroad opportunities and spent a memorable summer in Athens, Greece, where he learned about airline and airport operations while living and taking classes on a sailboat.
On campus, Tiriveedhi’s love of film enabled him to channel his artistic side and make his mark as an Eagle. Inspired by the Bollywood films he watched with his father as a child, he founded Embry‑Riddle's Movie/Film Making Club, where he made short films with fellow enthusiasts as a creative outlet.
By meeting other students who shared his passion, he was able to help ease his transition from one culture to another.
“Find friends who have the same interests as you,” he said.
Embry‑Riddle offers students a wide array of clubs and organizations to join, which is an excellent way for students to become active members of the university community. Extracurricular activities also contribute to student success. According to Best College, joining a club can help you boost your resume, meet new and diverse people and develop new skills, all while building your own personal and professional network.
Tiriveedhi certainly capitalized on Embry‑Riddle’s opportunities and carved out his own unique student experience.
The Business Eagles program brings together high-performing business students and industry leaders.
Business Eagles Network with Aviation Industry LeadersThe Business Eagles program brings together high-performing business students and industry leaders. Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University is a leading institution for aviation and aerospace education around the globe, but that expertise extends further than you may realize and encompasses virtually every aspect of aviation and aerospace–including the business of aviation.Embry‑Riddle Aviation Expertise
At Embry‑Riddle, our faculty have decades of leadership experience in the aviation industry, with professors working at organizations like Delta Air Lines, the Department of Defense and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) during their careers. Our business faculty offers expertise in everything from air transportation economics, supply chain management, lean six sigma and accounting for airlines and aviation organizations. Many conduct research for the aviation industry, currently serve on boards for international organizations and publish books on airline industry management.
With this vast experience comes significant knowledge and connections our faculty are eager to share with Embry‑Riddle students. One way they do this is through the Business Eagle program.
What is the Embry‑Riddle Business Eagles program?
Business Eagles is an exclusive undergraduate organization that seeks to help high-performing business students soar into success in dynamic aviation, aerospace and space industries. Because of the unique, specialized leadership and professional development, the program is a highly sought-after extracurricular activity with a competitive selection process.
"Business Eagles have unique opportunities for in-depth learning with industry leaders, as well as networking opportunities with these professionals along with our faculty,” said Laura Reece, faculty lead for the Business Eagle program. “Business Eagles are the best in class and are leaders in our college and our campus.”
Senior Alexandria Cogdell, an Aviation Business Administration major, joined Business Eagles to develop herself professionally and boost her connections with fellow students, administration and industry professionals.
“Since my freshman year, some of the greatest upperclassmen mentors in the College of Business always stemmed from the Business Eagle Program,” she explained. “I’ve always looked up to many of them, now more than ever, as they become top industry leaders.”
Senior Aviation Business Administration major Jonathan Frederick chose to join the program for professional development but found that he also gained confidence and professionalism.
“I focused upon building my resume and experience as early as possible through my college career to have the most time to search/apply for full-time positions in industry,” shared Frederick. “However, through my Business Eagles experience, I gained exposure to professionals and learned to hold myself to a higher professional standard, which improved my confidence in myself.”
What opportunities do the Business Eagles have with networking?
In addition to connecting within Embry‑Riddle, the Business Eagle program opens the doors for unique networking opportunities. Students meet with industry leaders, interact in small groups with aviation professionals and visit airports and other aviation businesses.
These connections serve not only as an educational experience in preparation for their future careers but also allow students to make personal connections with leaders in the aviation community.
“The Business Eagle program is an amazing opportunity for all students to discover their passion and connect with those who were in their same shoes years in advance, as well as become the leading team in the O’Maley College of Business for excellence and poise,” Cogdell said.
Air Traffic Management student Connor Cook found his true passion for aviation after arriving at Embry‑Riddle’s Prescott Campus.
Air Traffic Management Student Explores the Other Side of the RadioAir Traffic Management student Connor Cook found his true passion for aviation after arriving at Embry‑Riddle’s Prescott Campus.
Connor Cook (’22) learned to fly when he was 15. But after arriving at Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University, he found out there was something he enjoyed even more than being on the flight deck.
Cook’s true aviation passion is air traffic control. And Embry‑Riddle’s Bachelor of Science in Air Traffic Management is how Cook is turning that passion into a profession.
“I am in the hiring process with the [Federal Aviation Administration],” Cook said. “I'll get a class date soon and then an actual track, whether I'm going to be learning radar or terminal, which is working in the tower.”
Switching From the Flight Deck to the Tower
Cook started his aviation career in Palm Springs, California, building up hours as a pilot at the airport there. Embry‑Riddle’s renowned reputation as the top educator of aviators originally drew him to the Prescott Campus.
“Halfway through my first semester…I switched over to [Air Traffic Management],” he said. And I enjoyed that a lot more. I'm learning the other side of the radio, the things I'm not seeing.”
Cook said the main appeal initially was how much fun he was having in the program, especially when it came time to learn in Embry‑Riddle’s leading-edge simulation labs.
“The teachers, the students and the lab assistants, they're all connected,” he said. “It's very easy for each one to talk with each other. There are no barriers really. It's like, ‘You want to talk to me one on one, go ahead. Do it.’ And it's just a lot of learning from each other.”
How Do Air Traffic Management Students Train at Embry‑Riddle?
The technology used in the labs enables students like Cook to get a real-life look at how the ATC system works and the key role that controllers play in helping it function efficiently and safely.
“[The software] gives us the 360 view of any airport that we can bring up,” he said. “At first, it was kind of a shocking really, because I had never been in a simulated tower before. I was surprised at the magnitude of the tower cab and the detail it had. And we could go to LaGuardia. We could go to LAX. We could go to Chicago. So just a lot of switching back and forth and seeing how it looked from the towers was really cool.”
Besides just being cool, the state-of-the-art labs and simulators are the best way to prepare future air traffic controllers for the realities they will face, whether they work in a tower, a TRACON or an Air Route Traffic Control Center.
“It went beyond what I expected for it, which was really fun,” Cook said. “But it also helps tremendously because you’re prepared and know what to expect. And you're learning a lot about how to manage. I think it puts you a step ahead of everyone else.”
Experienced Faculty Members Offer Big Benefits
Beyond the technology advantages, Cook says there is another vital aspect of attending Embry‑Riddle: the skill, experience and expertise of its faculty.
“I think a big portion of why I enjoy it here are the professors and our program chair,” he said. “It's where the fun, the creativity, the community actually lie.”
Cook, who is now working as a lab assistant as he prepares to graduate in the fall, says coming upgrades in simulation technology, such as using virtual or extended reality training tools, will make the Embry‑Riddle program even more effective.
“I think it's a great program. I mean, we're excelling,” he said. “We're trying to get it more technologically advanced, to have a lot more opportunities to actually control the simulations and give more opportunities to other people, like pilots.”
Are you ready to excel? Apply at Embry‑Riddle today.
Launch your dream career toward space exploration at Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University.
Find Your Place in SpaceLaunch your dream career toward space exploration at Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University.Ready to reach for the stars? Then follow the Embry‑Riddle alumni who have already begun exploring outer space, either by riding rockets into orbit, helping design, build and fly spacecraft or providing the vital support necessary for any successful venture into space.
Embry‑Riddle’s degree programs range from Aerospace Engineering to Space Operations and beyond, preparing you to turn your passion for space into a profession just like Aerospace Engineering grad Veronica McGowan (’16) did.
McGowan was an integral part of the first-ever human commercial spaceflight when Virgin Galactic’s Unity 22 launched in July 2021.
“My team and I were responsible for the design, build and maintenance of the spaceship and mothership airframes, which are essentially the bones of the vehicles,” she said. “On launch day, I was the livestream ‘mission host’ providing commentary about various phases of the flight.”
Two other alumni also blazed historic new trails in space. Jared Isaacman (’11) was the driving force behind the first all-civilian orbital mission, Inspiration4, which launched in September 2021.
Isaacman served as commander and was joined by fellow alum Chris Sembroski (’07) and two other civilian astronauts – Sian Proctor and Hayley Arceneaux – in spending four days aboard SpaceX’s Crew Dragon capsule.
And Eagle ingenuity will be headed to the moon soon. A team of students have designed the EagleCam Cube Sat, which will head to the lunar surface aboard the Nova C lander in 2022.
The camera will make history by detaching itself from the lander to capture the first-ever photos of a space vehicle landing on another planet.
“When you read about the moon in a textbook, you sometimes wonder what it felt like to be at the forefront of those findings,” said Aerospace Engineering grad Daniel Posada (’20, ’23). “Now, with all the data that will be gathered, we’ll experience of the thrill of discovery and inspire future generations to look at the moon in a different way.”
With campuses in Florida and Arizona and a range of online offerings, Embry‑Riddle provides unparalleled education and unrivaled practical experience that opens doors in this exciting and rewarding field.
Aeronautical Science student Peter Cuthbert is using Embry‑Riddle’s leading-edge technology to pursue his dream of becoming a pilot.
Aeronautical Science Student is Flying High Thanks to Embry-Riddle's TechnologyAeronautical Science student Peter Cuthbert is using Embry‑Riddle’s leading-edge technology to pursue his dream of becoming a pilot.Peter Cuthbert (’25) has a pretty straightforward vision for where he wants his flying career to take him – and he knows that Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University can help him reach the destinations he has in mind.
“I don't have one airline in particular that I'd like to work for, but I mean, the dream is traveling the world, getting to see it, getting paid to do it and doing something that you enjoy every day,” said Cuthbert, a native of Houston, Texas. “I want to fly internationally because seeing the world is my ultimate goal.
Cuthbert, a freshman in the Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Science program, has gotten off to a quick start by knocking out his private pilot rating in his first semester through Embry‑Riddle’s unique PILOT, or Pre-flight Immersion Laboratory for Operations Training program.
What is the PILOT Program at Embry‑Riddle?
PILOT was launched in Fall 2021 and allows flight students to spend four weeks learning preflight, checklist and flight procedures in VR environments, then continue to work with their flight instructors to complete oral and simulator activities.
The program uses Embry‑Riddle’s customized VR platforms so students can practice takeoffs, landings and radio communications while also perfecting the basics of key flight maneuvers.
“Ultimately, I'm very glad that I got my private in one semester, because that's the whole goal of the program,” said Cuthbert. “It's good that it helps you work through what you're going to do in the end or in your sims or in your flights.”
Technology and Training Help Chart His Course
PILOT, however, is not meant to be a magic master switch. Although the program is on the cutting-edge of flight training technology, opens new doors for students and helps them achieve milestones faster than they normally could, it also demands time and commitment.
Cuthbert had amassed 75 hours of flight time by the end of his second semester and is on the verge of earning his instrument ticket.
The flight commitment also comes on top of “actual class classes,” and Cuthbert took 16 credit hours in the Fall Term. He advises aspiring flight students to be ready for the demands of PILOT, with the idea that the hard work will pay off big.
“It's really about dedication to it and knowing what you have to do when you have to do it,” he said. “I think that you need to have a genuine reason about why you love to do it. And that reason should be something that carries you throughout all your flight training. Even if you have days where you didn't do well on a sim or you didn't do well on a flight. The passion for doing it and continuing and ultimately reaching your goal should be strong enough to where that doesn't stop you.”
How Does Embry‑Riddle’s Technology Help Student Pilots?
Cuthbert said his passion has been stoked by his initial success. He’s also impressed by how Embry‑Riddle is employing technology to enhance its already top-notch flight training programs.
“[The technology is] honestly among the best from what I've seen and experienced, as well as knowing other students who go to different universities or do fight training elsewhere,” Cuthbert said. “I do think it's very thorough, which I like. It's very methodical. It's very thought out. It's very well done. Especially like with the sims, for instrument you feel like you're actually in the plane.”
“It's true that Embry‑Riddle has definitely thought out its flight training to benefit the students.”
Where can we help you go? Apply at Embry‑Riddle today.
Business students from all Embry‑Riddle’s three campuses enjoyed a unique opportunity thanks to the university’s relationship with The Boeing Company.
Business Students Learn Lessons Directly From Boeing in Special ProgramBusiness students from all Embry‑Riddle’s three campuses enjoyed a unique opportunity thanks to the university’s relationship with The Boeing Company.Selected groups of Embry‑Riddle business students took part in a special, six-week virtual course called Boeing Business Fundamentals, which ran between Feb. 1 and March 8 and featured representatives from different business divisions within the aerospace giant.
Each week showcased key areas that ranged from procurement to contract negotiations and included projects that students needed to complete.
“For example, we had one of the senior contract negotiation people from Boeing who was able to go through the process of describing how Boeing goes through that process,” said Dr. Jules Yimga, the department chair for the School of Business at the Prescott Campus. “It was really, really, really insightful.”
What Are Business Degrees at Embry‑Riddle?
The world’s leading aerospace university offers business degrees that range from management and finance to our newest programs in data science and business analytics.
Each degree can open the door to an unlimited future — not just in aerospace but in any industry. They also build a solid foundation for entrepreneurs who are dedicated to innovation and offer unique opportunities to connect directly with industry leaders.
That was the idea behind the Boeing course, which ended with the class comprised of about 20 juniors and seniors from the Daytona Beach, Prescott and Worldwide campuses making presentations on different key business topics directly to the Boeing representatives. At least two students from the Prescott Campus left the course with full-time job offers.
Partnerships With Industry Leaders
Although the course was new, the collaboration with Boeing is not, Yimga said.
“About three years ago, Boeing actually selected our school as a focus school for supply chain management,” he said. “So, the company is always tapping into resources, and we've had students going to Boeing as interns and getting jobs. But we've always looked for ways to make that relationship a little bit more fruitful for our students, for them to know more about a company, even before they joined the company so they can just hit the ground running. I would say that was the impetus for us having this class.”
The students who attended were selected internally by faculty members, and Yimga said that an interest in the business of aviation – an Embry‑Riddle specialty – was among the criteria used when choosing the class.
“We went through a process of coming down with a short list of students that would be heading into the job market soon,” Yimga said. “The class ended up being a huge success.”
Ongoing Opportunities to Succeed
Boeing and Embry‑Riddle are now looking to build on that success and plans are in the works to hold the course again.
“If we have our ducks in a row and it becomes a well-oiled machine, we could think about a scenario where we could have this course every semester,” Yimga said. “We are very grateful for what Boeing is doing for our students.”
In addition to the practical learning and networking opportunities provided to students by the Boeing program, the first iteration of the course also provided another benefit.
“It was great to have this cohesion across the three campuses,” Yimga said. “We've been trying to have these types of synergies for a very long time and two years ago, we started a process of aligning our learning objectives across our business courses on all three campuses. And so, seeing this Boeing course sort of piggybacking on that project was really fascinating.”
Ready to get down to business? Apply at Embry‑Riddle today.
Aerospace Engineering student Marielle Lenehan capitalized on her SCUBA diving experience for an opportunity of a lifetime.
Aerospace Engineering Student Explores the Best of Both WorldsAerospace Engineering student Marielle Lenehan capitalized on her SCUBA diving experience for an opportunity of a lifetime.
Aspiring rocket scientist Marielle Lenehan (’23) finds herself just as fascinated by what can be found beyond the stars as what lies beneath the surface of the ocean.
When it came to choosing a school where she could pursue both her passions, Embry-Riddle’s proximity to the ocean and Space Coast made it the perfect fit.
“There's nothing more encouraging than to look out of your dorm window to see a rocket launch into the sky – a steady reminder of what you might be working on in the future!” she said.
Nailing Down a NASA Internship
In 2021, Lenehan was accepted to NASA Johnson Space Center’s Pathways Internship Program, which provides students with opportunities to work at various branches in preparation for a career with NASA after graduation.
With multiple SCUBA diving certifications under her belt and a keen interest in human space studies, it’s no surprise she ended up at the Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory (NBL), an astronaut training facility that houses the agency’s neutral buoyancy pool.
“The underwater environment serves as one of the best microgravity analogs out there, and divers face many of the same restrictions as an astronaut during extravehicular activities,” she said.
What Is a NASA Internship Like?
Successful completion of rigorous medical, swimming and diving evaluations cleared Lenehan for what would be her most impactful experience yet – scuba diving in the NBL and exploring its full-scale model of the ISS.
She even played a crucial role in the setup of several underwater lunar lighting tests designed to replicate shadows found in the polar regions of the moon where the Artemis missions are set to land. When she wasn’t in the water, Lenehan also assisted with the design and structural analysis of a new platform to increase the fidelity of water survival training for astronauts.
“The fact that I worked at the NBL during my first co-op rotation is really special, especially when you consider that applying to the branch is highly competitive,” she said.
Outside of her studies, Lenehan keeps busy as a principal investigator for a research project in the Spacesuit Utilization of Innovative Technology (S.U.I.T.) Lab. She also served as president of the university’s marine conservation diving club for three years.
The Aerospace Engineering program has given her the knowledge and hands-on experience to dive into the internship – and wherever the aerospace industry takes her next – with confidence.
What Does an Aerospace Engineering Degree at Embry-Riddle Offer?
For more than 17 years, the Aerospace Engineering undergraduate program at Embry-Riddle has held the top ranking in the nation among schools whose highest degree is a master’s, according to U.S. News & World Report’s America’s Best Colleges Guide.
Students benefit from the most modern, state-of-the-art resources available today — the same tools in use by aerospace engineering professionals around the globe. No other Aerospace Engineering program in the United States attracts more students.
“People at Riddle really do want you to succeed and are always there for you if you need them,” Lenehan said. “That kind of support was integral and gave me the motivation to not only do well in my classes, but to take my shot and apply for experiences like the Pathways program.”
Ready to take your shot? Apply at Embry-Riddle today.
Aeronautical Science major Michael Bouchard is working to give local students the chance to learn more about aviation careers.
Aeronautical Science Major Helps Young People Put Wings on Their DreamsAeronautical Science major Michael Bouchard is working to give local students the chance to learn more about aviation careers.A friend recommended he take a discovery flight, and the rest was history.
Now, Aeronautical Science major Michael Bouchard (’22) is heading up a partnership between Embry-Riddle and the Cottonwood-Oak Creek School District geared toward teaching young and motivated students about opportunities in aviation.
“Without that friend, my life would be completely different,” he said. “I’m trying my best to be like my friend and change a few people’s lives through education and mentoring.”
A Mission to Spread the Magic of Flight
Sixteen eighth-grade students from four different schools in the city were selected to participate in a brand new after-school enrichment program, dubbed the Cottonwood-Oak Creek Condors.
Bouchard developed an eight-unit, interactive course covering flight history, basic principles, aircraft systems and maneuvers, weather, communications, career opportunities, drones and more. His course also includes several field trips, guest speakers and a special parents’ night.
The group visited the Prescott Campus to explore the Crash Lab, Riddle Ramp and maintenance hangar. Students even had an opportunity to try out Embry-Riddle’s state-of-the-art simulators.
“Cottonwood isn’t a very wealthy area, and a few of the kids come from troubled homes,” he said. “Introducing them to a career that they would love and that would allow them to travel and make a better life for their future families is awesome.”
As a bonus, members of the local Experimental Aircraft Association chapter’s Young Eagles program will host a rally in Cottonwood where the students can take discovery flights of their own.
“I am especially excited to fly a few of them myself this month,” he said.
A Little Help From His Friends
Other Embry-Riddle students and faculty involved in the Cottonwood-Oak Creek Condors include Parker Northrup, Dwayne Fernandes, Steve King, Laurie Altringer, Tricia Winters, Claire Giles, Patrick McKinney, Griffin Jeannette and Shaun Shephard.
Having already gained experience as a peer counselor and a campus academic mentor in the College of Aviation, Bouchard’s involvement in the new program has solidified his passion for teaching. He’s more than ready to hit the ground running in his new role as a certified flight instructor at Embry-Riddle.
“I’m super excited to be able to fly every day of the week and I love teaching, so it is going to be a blast,” he said.
Charting His Own Path as a Pilot
Bouchard is a member of the Republic Airways Cadet Program and has already accepted an offer with the airline following his two-year stint as an instructor. Also selected for the Delta Propel Program, he even has a qualified job offer lined up with Delta Air Lines once he completes his regional training.
He looks forward to staying involved with the program as it grows and impacts young aviators for years to come.
“This class is the kind of thing the kids will remember for the rest of their lives,” he said. “All of the work would be totally worth it if just one of them became a pilot.”
The Embry‑Riddle ASCEND team gives practical experience with engineering for high altitude exploration.
ASCEND Program Team Sends Payload to the Edge of SpaceThe Embry‑Riddle ASCEND team gives practical experience with engineering for high altitude exploration. In November 2021, a team of undergraduate researchers at the Prescott Campus successfully launched its first payload of the academic year.
Through collaboration with Arizona Near Space Research and the Arizona Space Grant Consortium, Eagles have access to hands-on opportunities that few students can add to their resumes – building and launching their own payloads.What is ASCEND?
The university’s Aerospace STEM Challenges to Educate New Discoverers (ASCEND) team, funded by the NASA Space Grant, sent its first payload of the year to the upper atmosphere on Nov. 20.
With the freedom to choose a different research focus each semester, ASCEND students gain practical engineering experience through a project that is entirely their own. Last spring, members of the current team studied heat transfer and how temperature changes during a payload’s flight.
What Goal is The ASCEND Team Trying to Reach?
This semester, the undergraduate researchers set a new goal: to stream live video of the payload as it embarked on a 100,000-foot journey to the upper atmosphere.
The team designed multiple printed circuit boards (PCBs) to connect equipment and a ground station to receive the streaming data – experience Electrical Engineering senior Nicodemus Phaklides says he wouldn’t have gotten without ASCEND. The team hopes to refine the ground-based system next semester.
How Does the ASCEND Program Benefit Embry‑Riddle Students?
“The ideas behind the ASCEND projects are usually simple in concept,” said Dr. Douglas Isenberg, associate professor of mechanical engineering and the team’s co-mentor. “However, it is the reality that nothing is ever built to infinite precision, and this tends to make simple things a lot more difficult.”
Previous groups have used high-altitude balloon payloads to conduct research on solar panels, neutral buoyancy and even solar eclipses.
“That's true engineering, and the ASCEND program has served as a fantastic platform for students to get this experience,” Isenberg said.
Embry‑Riddle offers full range of labs for hands-on experience.When it comes to providing the practical experience that gives graduates an edge in the job market, Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University stands apart.
Because no matter what type of skills students need – from wind tunnel testing to forensic science – Embry‑Riddle is likely to have a lab for it.
This approach to hands-on learning gives students a unique opportunity to work on high-end projects and help conduct groundbreaking research during their undergraduate studies, a benefit few other schools can offer.
And it’s not just experience that students will gain in our labs.
“The highlight of working in the Rocket Development Lab is being with so many like-minded people who are so eager to learn concepts past their schoolwork to get projects done correctly,” said Zoe E. Brand, a Mechanical Engineering student who serves as vice president of Rocket Development Lab and who also earned a prestigious Brooke Owens Fellowship in 2021.
Embry‑Riddle’s practical education expertise is rooted in its legacy as one of the nation’s foremost pilot training schools, with that experience fueling the development of dozens of specialized labs that serve students and faculty in nearly every discipline.
The formidable lineup of learning opportunities includes the world’s best collegiate crash lab, which teaches the basics of aircraft accident investigation, a “hacker lab” where students learn to fend off cyberattacks and online virtual labs that include aerial robotics.
All of the labs are outfitted with the latest equipment and faithfully reflect industry standards, which gives Embry‑Riddle students another advantage when they head out to start their careers. Whether the focus is on communication systems or chemistry, students work with cutting edge tools as they develop leading edge skills.
Our labs also serve as vital research hubs for faculty, staff and undergrad and grad students examining everything from new ways to use polymers in aerospace settings to the development of alternative propulsion systems for aircraft or the finer points of laser micromachinings.
“I’m really proud of our lab,” Alexis Smith, a senior civil engineering student with a focus in environmental engineering who is investigating atmospheric pollution in the new Sustainability and Environmental Engineering Lab, which opened in 2020.
These additional avenues to build practical skills help highlight another aspect of the Embry‑Riddle advantage, which also features expert faculty members who have the vast industry connections — vital when it comes to internships or initial career opportunities — and a global network of more than 160,000 alumni actively working in industries around the world.
Ready to discover something? Whatever passion you want to pursue, Embry‑Riddle has a lab for that.
Business Analytics student Michael Lopez was elected treasurer of the first slate of officers to serve the Worldwide Campus SGA.
Business Analytics Major Becomes First SGA Treasurer at Worldwide CampusBusiness Analytics student Michael Lopez was elected treasurer of the first slate of officers to serve the Worldwide Campus SGA.Michael Lopez is fascinated by the promise of collecting, analyzing and using data to make better business decisions.
The decision to join Embry‑Riddle Worldwide was simple for B.S. in Business Analytics student Michael Lopez (‘22). Virtual learning in college seemed like a natural choice since he had taken online classes in high school.
In his previous role as an assistant at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he gained experience in collecting data, gaining insights, developing reports and designing training programs based on his findings.
Lopez also learned to trade and invest in the financial markets, which fueled his desire to work with numbers and data.
With this experience under his belt, he felt drawn to the B.S. in Business Analytics (BSBA) and decided to join the program.
Learning the Ropes
Thanks to the well-rounded nature of the curriculum, he has been able to build a solid foundation of business knowledge and professional skills that will help him launch his career.
“The information in the classes is holistic,” he said. “It’s not like you’re only learning about data. You learn about presenting, how to use different programs, how to secure information and how to code.”
Courses in the BSBA also incorporate lessons using different software and apps such as Tableau, Open Refine and Microsoft Excel to provide students with the opportunity to gain valuable skills and build their resumes.
Entrepreneurial Spirit
Considering his goal of becoming an entrepreneur, the BSBA has been especially useful in helping Lopez prepare.
In one of his favorite classes, Business Law with Professor Raymond Massie, Lopez got the opportunity to learn about creative business plans and different contracts applicable to his own personal needs.
He is interested in starting various kinds of businesses such as home, equipment and vehicle rentals, e-commerce and internet service providers.
Applying New Skills
The business analytics program is also helpful to his position as treasurer of the Worldwide SGA. Since the Worldwide Campus has such a large number of students and the SGA is still in its early stages, Lopez and his team are getting to know their campus better.
To aid in this process, he plans to utilize skills he acquired in the BSBA program to gain a deeper understanding of the Worldwide student body and make better decisions as a student government official.
“I can apply what I’m learning in class to create surveys, collect data from students, gain insights from the results and move forward from there,” he said.
Looking to the Future
Given its bright outlook, business analytics offers a promising future for BSBA students like Lopez. The trending topics of data quality, migration and privacy are what excite him most about this growing field.
“Businesses are looking for quality insights that can come from quality data; organizations are expanding, merging with others, shifting to the cloud or switching platforms and want tools that are robust, efficient and versatile to meet their needs,” he said.
Change the face of your future. Apply today at Embry‑Riddle.
Bella Memeo’s pursuit of an Aeronautical Science degree is getting a boost from the artwork she creates to help her learn.
Boeing Scholar Uses Artwork to Elevate Her Flight TrainingBella Memeo’s pursuit of an Aeronautical Science degree is getting a boost from the artwork she creates to help her learn.
Bella Memeo, an Aeronautical Science freshman at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Prescott Campus, kicked off her college career by being named to the 2020 cohort of Boeing Scholars. Academics, however, make up just one half of her multi-disciplinary approach to learning.
The other half is artistic.
“I am a very visual person so, for me, I tend to illustrate anything I am learning about,” said the Spokane, Washington, native. “I have both digital and physical notes that go over aircraft systems and design pretty extensively. I really enjoy being able to understand concepts in this way.”
Additionally, she plans to incorporate this approach into her own future teachings, when she becomes a flight instructor.
“I hope to be able to educate students about flying with advanced symbology and imagery,” she said.
Artwork That Works for Her
Bella Memeo reinforces lessons learned in classes and the flight deck by illustrating new concepts in her notebooks, then reviewing the visuals to make abstract concepts come to life. (Photo: Bella Memeo)An illustrator, animator and photographer, Memeo displays her artwork online and on social media, but her lifelong love of aircraft runs just as deeply as her artistic aspirations.
“I’ve always grown up around aviation,” she said, noting that that her grandfather was a fighter and commercial pilot. “I was always at airshows and interested in Aeronautical Engineering from a very young age.”
Then, while participating in Civil Air Patrol about five years ago, she heard about Embry-Riddle and, just like that, her future plans were set. Today, just one year into her college career, both are her passions are already hitting milestones and turning into opportunity.
“I just recently passed my stage check and am about to solo soon,” she said. “And, the game studio I work with part-time is taking me on as a lead art director.”
Memeo was one of 13 high school students chosen to be part of the 2020 Boeing Scholars cohort.
What is an Aeronautical Science degree at Embry-Riddle?
The Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Science degree prepares graduates to fill these upcoming positions by combining a four-year technical degree with flight training.
Entering the aviation job market with a degree from Embry-Riddle will ensure graduates are considered for top jobs in the industry. Students not only learn to fly, but they also gain skills in leadership, critical thinking and research, as well as insight into the business aspects of the industry.
What is the Boeing Scholars program?
The program gives selected high-school graduates scholarships from The Boeing Company ranging from $5,000 to $7,500 annually for two years to pursue degrees at Embry-Riddle.
The scholarships are supported by a $3 million endowment from Boeing, the world’s largest aerospace company and leading aircraft manufacturer.
The Boeing Scholars at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University initiative is directed toward students interested in pursuing degrees in aeronautical science, aircraft maintenance and other fields at Embry-Riddle — the premier aviation and aerospace institution. The scholarships – which will fund a portion of each scholar’s annual tuition – are part of an ongoing effort to expand and diversify the aviation workforce.
Boeing offers Embry-Riddle a number of other valuable programs for students, as well. The Boeing Career Mentoring Program, a highly selective initiative that matches 30-40 students per year with Embry-Riddle alumni who work at Boeing for formal mentorship, is offered to all students at both residential campuses.
The program includes career-preparation advice, as well as regularly scheduled professional development workshops.
Ready to launch your future? Apply now at Embry-Riddle.
Space Physics grad Erik Lentz used his down time during the pandemic to shape the research project he had always dreamed about.
Changing the Future of Space TravelSpace Physics grad Erik Lentz used his down time during the pandemic to shape the research project he had always dreamed about.For many, the pandemic presented an opportunity to take up hobbies and interests both old and new. For Space Physics alumnus Dr. Erik Lentz (’09), it was the perfect time to pursue his dream research project.
Industry-Rocking Research
Lentz spent three years in Germany researching physics at the University of Göttingen’s Institute for Astrophysics. Amid the lockdowns in March 2020, he found himself with an abundance of time on his hands and consulted a list of topics that he wanted to research but never had the time. Determining if one could theoretically construct a faster-than-light warp drive without exotic matter was at the top.
“It seemed like as good a time as any to take on a ‘fun’ project like that – something that was quite a bit different from what I had been doing,” he said.
Conducting his research between March and June of last year, he made a monumental discovery – that faster-than-light travel without exotic matter, or substances with negative energy density, is feasible.
His recently published paper, “Breaking the warp barrier: hyper-fast solitons in Einstein–Maxwell-plasma theory,” focuses on using the intrinsic qualities of gravity as we understand it through general relativity to move a spacecraft – potentially with human beings inside – at speeds faster than light.
From YouTube videos to news articles and trending Reddit threads on this exciting and imaginative topic, the response from the public has been overwhelmingly positive, he said.
Set on Space Physics
Raised in Klamath Falls, Oregon, in a household that heavily encouraged learning, Lentz was always drawn to the sciences.
He recalls visiting the Prescott Campus and talking to the then head of the Physics & Astronomy Department, Dr. Darrel Smith, about the brand-new Space Physics major. Upon learning that the university was the only one to offer a focus in Exotic Propulsion, Lentz was hooked.
“It was something that had been fascinating to me from reading and watching too much science fiction as a kid,” he said. “I gained an interest in seeing if any of these fantastic technologies that were really just plot devices in Star Trek could actually exist.”
Lentz started his Embry‑Riddle journey as a double major in Aerospace Engineering and Space Physics before fully shifting his focus to the physics program at the end of his sophomore year.
He credits much of his development as a scientist to faculty mentors like Dr. Quentin Bailey and former mathematics professor Dr. David Russell, who helped shape his perception of physics as a discipline as opposed to something found only in popularized science books, he said.
“I was daunted by all of these laws and equations I was reading about, created by people 100 or more years ago and thinking, ‘how could I produce something that significant?’” he said. “Over the course of those four years, it became much clearer and less intimidating to me.”
Driven to Discover
Having since returned from Germany, Lentz now works as a Modeling and Simulation Analyst for JDSAT Operations Research & Big Data Sciences in Virginia. While there is much more to be uncovered, he looks forward to seeing how much further the research project can go and how it will progress the field.
In March, he returned to his Embry‑Riddle roots to deliver a virtual presentation on his findings through the Jim and Linda Lee Planetarium’s Science Speaker Series.
“It’s a very imperfect path I’ve taken with lots of twists and turns, but that’s kind of the point,” Lentz said.
Find the fuel for your future by applying at Embry‑Riddle now!
Discovering the impact of space flight on the human body.Long-term spaceflight presents many challenges, including a threat to the health of the human brain.
That problem is hydrocephalus, fluid accumulating in the brain, and it is the focus of research by Embry‑Riddle senior Haleema Irfan ('21), who is majoring in Aerospace Physiology and Human Factors Psychology.
Hydrocephalus is provoked by shifts in the cephalic fluid that occur in microgravity and can cause symptoms that include impaired functioning.
Irfan has her sights set on a sensor that would detect the condition before it poses a problem for astronauts.
Irfan's proposed sensor would detect certain metabolites that are present with hydrocephalus.
Her research is being funded by a Student Internal grant from the Embry‑Riddle Office of Undergraduate Research.
Imagine hunting for cures to brain disorders — in space. That's what Malik Moville is doing.
Mechanical Engineering Grad Uses Space to Help Find Cures for Brain DisordersImagine hunting for cures to brain disorders — in space.Mechanical Engineering graduate Malik Moville (’21) was part of a team that launched one of the first brain organoid investigations to the International Space Station while he worked on an extended internship at Space Tango, a company using microgravity for research and innovation.
The organoids served as 3-D brain models for researchers exploring the biology behind neurological diseases, and Moville has continued working on the project in his latest role as a full-time mechanical engineer at Space Tango.
“From the start of the project to the actual launch, I was thrilled to be part of it,” said Moville, who helped design and engineer a habitat to keep the organoids alive in space.
What can you do with a Mechanical Engineering degree?
Malik is designing and building enabling technologies to autonomously facilitate microgravity investigations in life and physical sciences.
“I just finished working on two projects. One was with the non-profit organization Higher Orbits [run by Embry‑Riddle alum Michelle Lucas] and their focus was on algae [in zero gravity] and I had to house the algae to see how they will grow and react utilizing a sensor inside of a bag. It launched on Northrop Grumman Commercial Resupply Service Mission-17.”
“I also did another project with the University of Kentucky, which was focused on demonstrating automated attitude control systems. And this was also a historic mission with Space Tango. This is our very first CubeLab to be operated outside a TangoLabs locker facility and the investigation took place in the aisle of the International Space Station.”
How do you get a Mechanical Engineering job?
How did Malik end up with such an awesome job? Hard work was one reason, and the kind of internships and connections provided by Embry‑Riddle were another.
“Embry‑Riddle helped me land this role through the Eagle alumni network and friends. Michelle Lucas (’00) and Danielle Rosales (’18) introduced me to Space Tango. Embry‑Riddle allowed me to gather all my engineering knowledge, project management and leadership skills and, most importantly, allowed me to specialize in Biomedical Systems.”
What are the best places to visit on the Embry‑Riddle campus?
Malik is grateful to Embry‑Riddle for helping him launch such a stellar career, and he shared his Top 5 favorite places on campus:
The Hub: “That was my home away from home. Today it's the Center of Diversity and Inclusion, but it will always be known to us as the Hub.”
The West Lawn: “It was just the nice intermission between you getting to class or you getting to your dorm. The Florida weather can never be beat.”
Dean of Students Office: “One of my great secret areas. I had the pleasure of actually getting to know [the deans] and always having that close relationship.”
Dr. Nancy Lawrence’s Office: “Good old doc. I was the president of the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals, and she was the advisor. She had a lot of different connections in the aerospace field."
Negar Afshar’s Office: “The epicenter for all clubs on campus. She had a very pivotal role in helping us form the Black Students Association.”
Find your fit at Embry‑Riddle. Apply today.
Electrical Engineering major Chloeleen Mena worked on the Mars Helicopter during an internship at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
Electrical Engineering Student Gets Her Hands on the Mars HelicopterElectrical Engineering major Chloeleen Mena worked on the Mars Helicopter during an internship at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.A coveted internship at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California in the summer of 2018 allowed Chloeleen Mena (’20) to work on something that was out of this world. Literally.
Mena, an Electrical Engineering major at Embry‑Riddle, spent several months on the Integration and Test team for the Mars Helicopter Project, Ingenuity (aka Ginny), which ultimately became a successful part of the Perseverance mission to Mars.
How do you get a JPL internship?
Although Mena felt she was as prepared as possible for the internship thanks to her professors at Embry‑Riddle, she also learned that getting to JPL involved more than just academic achievement.
“My resume was as built like any inexperienced college student,” she said. “One thing to keep in mind is don’t dismiss activities or projects done in high school. An engineering project I did in high school is what caught the attention of my JPL mentor when they decided to contact me for a phone interview.”
Mena also said she learned from her experiences at Embry‑Riddle “to be patient, because hard work and a little luck will pay off. I’ve had some hard semesters where I thought I wouldn’t make it through a class, but I studied hard and got the grade I needed on the finals.”
What is a JPL internship like?
“On my first day, I was extremely overwhelmed,” Mena said. “The [Mars Helicopter] project was already well underway, and I needed to catch up.”
Mena was assigned to assist with the Mars Helicopter test program and then write procedures for future tests. Here, she says, her Embry‑Riddle education kicked in and made the difference.
“The curriculum that was most helpful to me during my internship at JPL was Technical Report Writing,” Mena said. “I used what I learned to section the procedures I was writing, make sure that the steps were detailed, and ensure that there was enough information for each step.”
Mena added that “different JPL projects have their own formatting requirements, so I used what I learned to section the procedures I was writing, make sure that the steps were detailed, and ensured that there was enough information for each step with images, callouts and tables."
In addition to working on the helicopter, Mena said JPL held several activities for interns during the entire summer, such as speaker events, short movie series and facility tours.
Mena, who wrote a blog about her summer at JPL, said her most exciting experiences as an intern were participating in the NASA Summer Intern Challenge, being interviewed for an article highlighting some projects at JPL and participating and watching any Mars Helicopter test activities.
Mena’s father, Braulio Mena, said it was a JPL open house that initially sparked his daughter’s interest in engineering.
“And there she was, 12 years later, making her dreams come true,” he wrote in response to the blog post. “It has not been easy, but hard work pays off.”
What can you do with an Electrical Engineering degree?
In addition to being inspirational, the hands-on internship experience at JPL also gave Mena new perspectives on shaping her goal of working in some type of space exploration.
“I realized that testing is what I have the most experience in but that isn’t all that I want to do,” she said. “So, I’ve become more open about what companies I apply to.”
Since October 2020, Mena has been working as an electrical engineer at Northrop Grumman.
Apply today and join the stellar students at Embry‑Riddle.
