Justin Fratto Advances Environmental Sustainability Through Mechanical Engineering

The Journey to Mechanical Engineering

When Justin Fratto (’27) was in high school, he showed a proclivity for engineering.

“I was in an automotive repair vocational program where my teacher, Mr. Svoboda, made me realize I had great diagnostic and problem-solving skills in automotive repair,” Fratto said. “He showed me that I could take those skills to the next level.”

Fratto chose Embry-Riddle for its highly ranked engineering programs, expert faculty and emphasis on hands-on learning opportunities.  He’s pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering with minors in Geographical Information Systems, Homeland Security and Intelligence.

Passion for Environmental Sustainability

During his time on the Daytona Beach Campus, Fratto has worked on two real-world projects, learning how to manage projects, foster collaboration and overcome engineering challenges with limited time and resources.

In research supported by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Fratto is developing a lightweight, low-buoyancy, automated, uncrewed aircraft water sampler to improve the sampling resolution of harmful algal blooms.

Kayla Taylor (’21, ’23, ’28), an engineering Ph.D. student who works on the project with Fratto, appreciates his substantial contribution to their research.

“Justin is exceptionally competent in his work, and his contributions will help us exceed project goals, benefiting local Florida communities and advancing our understanding of harmful algal blooms,” she said. “His ability to think critically has brought a fascinating new dimension to our project.”

Since his first year at Embry-Riddle, Fratto has worked under the tutelage of Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering Dr. Marc Compere.

“When someone is passionate about a project or design, it’s clear,” Compere said. “Justin has integrated electrical, mechanical, aeronautical and even biological design considerations for his Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) sampler, becoming an indispensable team member.”

Compere and Taylor have watched Fratto’s designs go from drawings on paper to a working prototype that will be used in the federally funded EPA research.

Providing Better Access to Clean Drinking Water

The Pure Water Project (PWP), a student club that designs, builds, tests and installs solar-powered reverse osmosis water purifiers, provides clean water to communities in the Dominican Republic without access.

“Being a part of PWP has been my most meaningful experience at Embry-Riddle,” Fratto said. “I used to work with commercial water systems at my old job, and I joined as soon as I learned there was an Embry-Riddle club all about water filtration.”

Unsure that engineering was the right choice, he changed his major mid-freshman year. During a PWP summer trip, Fratto was moved by how much a PWP installation improved the lives of those in need.

"Seeing a project from beginning to installation in a dynamic environment inspired me,” Fratto reflected. “If not for that trip and my involvement in the club, I wouldn’t have switched back to Mechanical Engineering. I found my passion for using engineering to improve lives.”

When Compere was asked to help build a custom device to sample water by drone for the project, Fratto was the obvious choice.

“Justin is good at mechanical design, and he likes instrumentation and data collection,” Compere said. “He has not only locked onto the build, but he has taken it beyond what I would have done because he is more familiar with the latest design tools, in particular 3D printing.”

Opportunities Abound in Mechanical Engineering

With a Mechanical Engineering degree from Embry-Riddle, Fratto will have the foundation for success in any industry.

“My goal is to have a career with a high social impact, improving the health and safety of others,” he said. “Whether in the energy sector, aircraft instrumentation or in water systems, the opportunities I’ve had at Embry-Riddle have greatly shaped my career plans. “

Pursue Your Passion

Fratto has some advice for future engineering students.

"Explore what you are passionate about,” he encouraged. “It may not be apparent until you get hands-on experience through clubs or research. You’ll see what you enjoy working on and what you don’t.”

This philosophy keeps Fratto motivated toward academic success and a meaningful future career.

“It takes time to find your passion, and it may change over time,” he explained. “Mechanical engineering is one of the broadest fields, allowing you to be flexible in your career path.”