Game On for Aerospace Engineer-Entrepreneur Lucas Cohen

Lucas Charles Felimon Cohen (’26) balances life as an intern, CEO and student — all at once. The Aerospace Engineering major approaches his education at Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University with the same precision and execution that defines his dual career path as an engineer and entrepreneur. Whether leading a startup or tackling complex aerospace projects, Lucas thrives in high-performance environments, his expertise in propulsion systems reflecting his relentless forward momentum.

Choosing Embry‑Riddle: A Calculated Decision

Despite having no engineers among his family or friends, Lucas was drawn to problem-solving and design, strengths that complemented his aptitude for math and science. Initially considering law, he quickly realized that engineering better suited his analytical mindset and he began shaping his future around it as early as middle school.

A Connecticut native, Cohen first explored MIT, where his grandfather was valedictorian in the architecture class of 1954. However, after evaluating career opportunities and industry connections, Embry‑Riddle emerged as the ideal choice.

"I really liked Embry‑Riddle’s corporate relations and their ties to major aerospace and defense contractors," he explained. He also welcomed the chance to escape Connecticut’s cold winters for college life in Daytona Beach, Florida.

Beyond Bound Studios: Turning Passion Into Enterprise

Entrepreneurial spirit surfaced in middle school when Lucas began running "Minecraft" servers, transforming a hobby into a small business. This experience eventually led to the formation of Beyond Bound Studios, the company behind "Titanborn," an ambitious multiplayer online role-playing game.

Inspired by mythology and the immersive storytelling of games like "God of War 4," Lucas assembled a remote team of volunteers to develop "Titanborn" for "Minecraft"’s base platform. Unlike typical "Minecraft" servers, "Titanborn" integrates fully voice-acted, animated characters, elevating the gaming experience. The project has already drawn over 30,000 views across YouTube channels, with an open beta release on the horizon.

Rather than relying on traditional game sales, Lucas plans to pursue the lucrative "'Fortnite' model," generating revenue through cosmetic purchases, such as skins and upgrades, instead of upfront costs. "It’s actually more profitable when it’s free to play," Cohen explained, positioning Beyond Bound Studios for substantial growth.

Leveraging University Resources

The TREP EXPO, Embry‑Riddle’s new business tradeshow and competition, advanced the entrepreneurial journey, securing a $1,000 award, which enabled Lucas to register Beyond Bound Studios as a limited liability corporation.

Additionally, guidance from the university’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship helped Lucas navigate the complexities of launching a business. Dr. Joseph Lakatos, interim director and professor in the Department of Accounting, Economics, Finance & Information Sciences, provided legal insights on business banking, state registration and managing partnerships across different locations — crucial knowledge for scaling a startup.

"Their guidance was instrumental in launching my business," Lucas noted.

From Startup CEO to Aerospace Engineer

His leadership of Beyond Bound Studios fine-tuned his internship at Collins Aerospace, where Lucas was an engine control systems project engineer. Working on next-generation fighter jet engines, he applied the project management skills he honed as a startup CEO.

His immersion in project management prepared him to contribute on the job immediately. “My work with my company prepared me more for my internship than any of my courses. I was able to look at scope navigation, different project management methodologies and styles. When I got to Collins, I was ready to be productive. There is a lot of overlap of my experiences. It's very demanding and I am in meetings every day, but I like it that way."

His performance earned him an offer to return to Collins. He also serves as the company’s lead campus ambassador, guiding fellow students through the hiring process.

Mentorship and Giving Back

A commitment to professional development extends beyond his own career. As a former officer in the campus chapter of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), he mentored students, helping them refine resumes and secure internships.

"I love seeing students willing to put in the work," he said. The career connections at the SHPE conference led to a big win to freshman Gabriella Ballock, one of his mentees. She will start a civil engineering internship with Jacobs, thanks to coaching and help with her resume and e-portfolio from Lucas.

Lucas also serves as a senior resident advisor at Embry‑Riddle, overseeing a team of 11 resident advisors. While he plans to step back from this role next year, his dedication to student success remains a priority.

Looking Ahead: Balancing Dual Careers

Cohen’s long-term career path reflects his structured mindset. He aims to enter the aerospace industry as a project engineer, potentially through RTX’s Leadership Development Program, a professional rotation program developed by Raytheon.

However, he remains open to fully pursuing entrepreneurship if Beyond Bound Studios continues to expand.

"If Beyond Bound Studios turns into a full opportunity, I’d choose being a business owner over an engineer," he admits.

He also plans to eventually pursue graduate work in business. “An MBA will be more relevant for me than a master’s in engineering," he noted, emphasizing that strong management skills are vital whether leading aerospace projects or running a gaming company.

Advice to Students: Get Involved

For prospective Embry‑Riddle students, Cohen’s advice is straightforward: "Come to Riddle and get involved." He sees the university as a launchpad for students who leverage its corporate connections and resources.

"If you put the work in and go to the right places, you can come out with a job offer," he said.

Whether engineering propulsion systems or designing immersive gaming worlds, Lucas Cohen exemplifies the next generation of innovators — strategic, adaptable and unstoppable when it comes to making things happen.