Fast Track to the Flight Deck

Nehemiah Ash (’25) is a perfect example of how dual enrollment can open doors to endless opportunities. As the valedictorian of Able Christian School’s Class of 2025 and a soon-to-be graduate of Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University with an Associate of Science in Aeronautics, Nehemiah is setting a new precedent for academic and aviation excellence.

Dual enrollment allows students like Nehemiah to gain college-level credits while still in high school, giving them a head start in their academic and professional careers. Beyond the academic advantages, dual enrollment provides students with a unique platform to develop critical life skills that prepare them for the rigors of higher education and the workforce.

Soon, Nehemiah will receive his associate degree one month before his high school diploma in May.

A Passion for Aviation

Nehemiah’s journey into aviation began in eighth grade when he discovered his deep passion for flying. Since then, every step he has taken has been toward his ultimate goal — becoming a commercial airline pilot.

“The Aeronautical Science program at Embry‑Riddle provides an excellent foundation for my goal of becoming a commercial airline pilot,” he said. “It combines the technical aspects of flight with a solid understanding of aviation operations and safety.”

His decision to enroll in Embry‑Riddle's Aeronautical Science program was fueled by the university’s stellar reputation and dual enrollment opportunities. By eleventh grade, he had discovered the perfect chance to get ahead in his aviation education, and he took it. 

The curriculum blends technical flight training with aviation operations and safety, setting the stage for a smooth transition into college life.

Balancing High School, College and Leadership Activities

Earning a college degree while completing high school is no small feat. On top of maintaining a 4.5 GPA in high school and a 3.8 GPA in college — earning Dean’s List Honors every term — Nehemiah also balanced a demanding extracurricular schedule. As a dedicated scholar-athlete, a leader in JROTC and a student ambassador, he quickly learned the importance of time management and prioritization.

“It’s been intense! There have been plenty of late nights and early mornings, but every minute has been worth it,” he said. “I’ve had to learn how to prioritize, stay organized and sometimes make tough choices about where to allocate my time.”

Nehemiah’s ability to manage such a demanding schedule showcases the personal resilience developed through dual enrollment. The experience of navigating both high school and college coursework teaches valuable skills essential for academic success and professional achievement.

For Nehemiah, the challenge was real but manageable, and his ability to excel in both academics and extracurriculars shows the value of dual enrollment in preparing students for the demands of a professional career.

Gaining a Competitive Edge

One of the biggest advantages of dual enrollment is how it helps students stand out. By taking college courses while still in high school, students can rack up college credits that lighten their course load when they finally transition to college. This not only lets them graduate faster, but it also opens opportunities for internships and entering the workforce sooner than their classmates.

This accomplishment showcases his commitment to academics and gives him a significant edge in the aviation industry, where hands-on experience and expertise are highly sought after.

“Earning my A.S. in Aeronautics has given me a significant head start on my career path. I am already familiar with several aviation concepts and have built relationships within the industry before even finishing high school,” he said. “My experience at Embry‑Riddle has been incredible; making the Dean's List every term has been challenging yet rewarding. The professors bring real-world experience, which adds immense value to my education.”

Inspired by Family and Mentors

Nehemiah’s drive to succeed is deeply rooted in the support of his family, particularly his late grandfather, whose memory continues to inspire him. “Their sacrifices to ensure my success in life are remarkable, and I am incredibly grateful for everything they have done,” he shared. “Their dedication drives me to reach farther and make them proud.”

He also draws inspiration from his mentor, Mitchell O’Connor, a pilot at Endeavor Air whose career path exemplifies how determination and persistence make a thriving aviation career possible.

“His mentorship has provided practical insights into the airline industry and the realities of being a commercial pilot. This guidance has been valuable as I navigate the demands of flight training alongside my academic responsibilities,” he explained. “Through his mentorship, I've gained a clearer understanding of the technical aspects of flying, as well as the dedication required for success in aviation.”

A Pathway to Success

With his A.S. in Aeronautics nearly complete, Nehemiah is set to begin his next chapter at Embry‑Riddle's Daytona Beach Campus in August, where he will major in Aeronautical Science and continue working toward his commercial pilot certifications. Each flying lesson and logged flight hour brings him one step closer to realizing his dream of becoming a licensed pilot.

Beyond his academic studies, Nehemiah is actively pursuing his private pilot’s license — a goal he is determined to achieve by May.

The hands-on training he receives is invaluable, as it not only reinforces his classroom knowledge but also builds his confidence in operating an aircraft. Nehemiah is excited about the journey ahead and eager to see where his passion for aviation will take him.

Nehemiah encourages future students to embrace unconventional paths if they align with their dreams. “Yes, attending both high school and college simultaneously has been challenging, but if you are passionate about something, you will find the energy to make it work,” he advised. “Time management is crucial — learning to organize your time effectively early on is essential.”

While he takes great pride in his academic achievements, his focus has always been on the bigger picture — building a strong foundation for his aviation career. With his unwavering dedication, impressive accomplishments and a clear vision for the future, Nehemiah Ash is well on his way to soaring to new heights in the aviation industry.