MBAA Student Suits Up to Spread Smiles
Annelise O'Donnell
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A theme park and “Star Wars” enthusiast, Steven Warmath (’10, ’22) remembers first discovering the 501st Legion while attending an annual Star Wars Weekend at Disney.
It’s what inspired him to join the Florida Garrison, a local chapter of the international organization, in August 2015.
An Aviation Career With a Rewarding Hobby
Warmath, an experienced pilot of over 15 years, earned his B.S. in Aeronautics from Embry‑Riddle in 2010 and is currently a captain for JetBlue based out of Orlando International Airport.
When he’s not in the air, you can find him sporting his best costumes at charity events, hospitals, conventions and more around the community. The group never charges any fees but instead accepts donations to charity for special occasions like birthday parties and weddings.
“When we walk into a room, it doesn't matter if you're 6 or 60 – everyone becomes a kid again,” he said.
What Matters Most
The most meaningful appearances for Warmath are those he makes at Nemours Children’s Hospital and Advent Health Hospital for Children in Orlando. He finds spreading joy to children and parents who are navigating tough times especially rewarding.
It's a good feeling to bring some light into their lives even for just a few minutes. Sometimes I'm really glad I'm wearing a helmet so they can't see me crying.
He also attends several solo events a year and has even pushed his costuming skills to incorporate Marvel, DC and Harry Potter characters.
“Seeing the look of pure joy and excitement on not just the child's face but their parents' as well is something I'll never tire of seeing,” Warmath said.
His passion for service extends to his day job, too. He often spends Thanksgiving and Christmas flying so others can stay home with family.
“The thing I love most about my job is how much fun it is to fly airplanes – it never gets old,” Warmath said. “Some days are easy and some are challenging, but I couldn't see myself working in any other industry.”
An interest in aviation management and a desire to expand his horizons recently drew Warmath to Embry‑Riddle’s MBA in Aviation program.
What is the MBAA Program at Embry‑Riddle?
One of the university’s first-ever certificate-based graduate programs, the Master of Business Administration in Aviation (MBAA) degree at Embry‑Riddle provides strong foundations for success in any facet of the global aviation business arena and allows students to design an educational path tailored to their unique interests.
On track to finish his final class in March, he looks forward to crossing the stage at the spring commencement ceremony in Daytona Beach – a first for Warmath.
Whether it’s transitioning to a management role with JetBlue or exploring opportunities in the airline’s training department, he is prepared for whatever the future may hold.
“Embry‑Riddle is at the top of the game when it comes to aviation education, and I'm proud to be part of that community,” Warmath said. “Hopefully, I can give back where I can.”