Dreams in Motion: From the Military to Software Engineering at Embry-Riddle
Ashley Mueller
Although he had an early interest in technology, space and science, pursuing these fields seemed distant and intimidating within his close-knit community. However, after some unique life experiences, he embarked on a path that would ultimately lead him to Embry-Riddle and sparked his current passion for software engineering.
A Journey That Paved the Way
From an early age, Noah was inspired by his older brother’s decision to join the Marine Corps, and he dreamt of serving in the military himself. After delaying his enlistment to follow his passion for music, which developed through years of playing piano and guitar, Noah eventually realized his next goal and joined the U.S. Army. His time in the military was formative, shaping his discipline, resilience and ability to adapt to changes and challenges.
After his service, Noah decided it was time for a new challenge. Noah is now pursuing a B.S. in Software Engineering at Embry-Riddle's Daytona Beach Campus.
“Once I was out of the military, I realized I had earned benefits for education, and I needed to decide on a career and set my trajectory for the future,” he said. “Without these benefits, I would not be in school, and I would be doing one of the jobs I did after I got out of the Army. So, indirectly, the military, which was a childhood dream, equipped me with the ability to do something I have found a passion for.”
The transition from military life to academia hasn't been without its challenges, but Noah credits his support system — especially his wife — for guiding him to pursue his goals and achieve success.
Choosing Embry-Riddle
Choosing to enroll at Embry-Riddle was a pivotal moment that was ultimately inspired by a family road trip to explore Florida and visit potential schools. After visiting the Kennedy Space Center along the Space Coast, he instantly fell in love with the area. He researched top universities around it, and Embry-Riddle's Daytona Beach Campus flew to the top of the list.
With its stellar reputation and industry connections, Embry-Riddle quickly became the clear choice for Noah’s academic and professional journey.
“One of the best ways Embry-Riddle helps you stand out is by their network and industry ties, which help you establish connections before you graduate,” he said. “This school is well-respected amongst industry professionals and other colleges if you wish to seek post-graduate opportunities."
Since starting his journey at Embry-Riddle, Noah has delved into the software engineering field, has learned two programming languages and is beginning a third thanks to unique research opportunities on campus.
“One of the reasons I chose Software Engineering is because the knowledge and skills acquired with this program can be applied in any industry... The job outlook is projected to grow much faster than the average job growth rate,” he recalled. “It’s rewarding to be able to solve problems and to create with the skills I have already learned.”
Noah has already put those skills to use by developing a game that will be released this year on Steam — a digital software distribution service that serves as a hub for playing, discussing and creating games — called “Operation Karamazov.”
Another one of the highlights of Noah’s time at Embry-Riddle was visiting the Vertical Assembly Building (VAB) at Kennedy Space Center — a dream come true for someone who once only imagined being a part of the aerospace and engineering community.
“To me, this feels like an achievement. When my family and I went to Kennedy Space Center before moving down here, I thought to myself, 'How incredible would it be to go inside the VAB,’ as we drove past in a Kennedy Space Center bus on the way to the museum,” he reflected. “Less than a year later, as an Embry-Riddle student, I was standing inside the VAB on a school trip to see Boeing’s Star-Liner facility!”
A Foundation for Success
Embry-Riddle has given Noah plentiful opportunities by being on campus, from gaining access to renowned faculty to state-of-the-art labs, technology and more.
As a proud member of the Biologically Inspired Design-for-Resilience Lab (BID4R), Noah participates as a researcher who is currently assisting in a project where his role has been investigating the correlation between physiological data and individual thriving.
Noah said, “This experience has positively impacted my experience at Embry-Riddle and given me opportunities to grow outside of the classroom.”
Being a part of the BID4R has allowed Noah to grow both personally and professionally. Through this experience, he’s learned how to review research papers thoroughly, how to develop methods of gathering and analyzing data, progressed his knowledge about linear regression and linear-mixed effect models and conducted a sample study with his own data to contribute to a grant proposal.
“Even the mentorship I received improved my performance and outlook for my academic career and personal goals!”
Reaching for the Stars
Noah’s drive to push boundaries and explore new opportunities has taken him to new heights. He is now a NASA Pathways student, interning at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, in the flight operations directorate.
The Pathways program is a highly competitive paid internship opportunity that serves as a direct pipeline to full-time employment at NASA. This work-study (co-op) program offers students hands-on experience, professional development and mentorship, along with paid federal civil servant opportunities and benefits. Interns gain valuable exposure to NASA’s missions, advanced technology and operations, with the potential for a job offer upon successful completion of the program.
“I am doing three internships with NASA before I graduate then hopefully starting full-time work with them when I graduate,” he said. “My next internship will likely be in the engineering directorate here at Johnson Space Center.”
Looking ahead, Noah has ambitious goals set. He plans to secure a full-time role at NASA, pursue an accelerated master’s degree and continue to work for leading aerospace and defense companies, using his engineering degree to the fullest. He even envisions continuing his education toward a Ph.D. — if it's in the cards.
Noah is focused on growing his technical skills and expertise, excelling in his coursework and enjoying his free time with his friends and family. And for now, he’s leaving some advice for fellow Eagles.
“Take advantage of faculty mentorship when offered, apply yourself to the best of your ability and never be afraid to go for an opportunity if it presents itself and aligns with your goals.”