Mid-Career Reset Leads to Aviation Finance

At a time when many professionals settle into established careers, alumnus Qilong Guo (’25) chose a different path — one defined by curiosity, courage and a willingness to start again. His journey to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University was shaped by decades of aviation experience, a global perspective and a defining moment that pushed him to pursue more.

“I began my career as an accounting assistant at Yunnan Airlines in 2000, and from the start, I have had a strong passion for aviation,” Qilong said.

A Passion Takes Flight

That early exposure sparked a fascination not just with aircraft, but with the complex financial systems behind them. Working across airlines and airports, he grew curious about how aircraft are financed, leased and managed.

“I became particularly interested in how lessors and investment companies acquire and finance aircraft, structure leases for profit, secure funding and select airlines as leasing partners,” he shared.

That interest ultimately led him to pursue a Master of Science in Aviation Finance at Embry-Riddle’s Daytona Beach Campus, where he could explore the intersection of aviation and global finance.

A Bold Mid-Career Leap

Before arriving at Embry-Riddle, Qilong made a decision that would redefine his life. In 2022, while leading a regional airline startup as chairman of a general aviation company in China, the project was discontinued, prompting him to step away and pursue new opportunities abroad.

“When I decided to leave my job in 2022, I was 45 years old. The biggest challenge was navigating the cultural and regulatory differences between China, the U.K. and the United States,” he said.

Yet those challenges ultimately strengthened his adaptability and global perspective.

A Defining Moment at ISTAT

The decision to study in the United States came after a pivotal experience at the International Society of Transport Aircraft Trading (ISTAT) Asia in 2024.

Qilong had the privilege of meeting three distinguished Chinese aviation leaders: Mr. Yuanyuan Yang, former director of the Civil Aviation Administration of China; Dr. Fan Liu, the twelfth secretary general of the International Civil Aviation Organization; and Dr. Xingquan Xie, vice president of IATA North Asia. They offered guidance and encouragement, inspiring him to pursue his international aviation passion and career aspirations.

“During the event, I also engaged with ISTAT professionals on topics related to airlines and the aviation market,” he said. “It was then that I realized I could serve as a bridge for aircraft trading and leasing between North America and Asia.”

“My aviation passion, combined with my skills and openness to global opportunities, confirmed that this path was the right direction for me,” he said.

From Classroom to Industry

At Embry-Riddle, that vision took shape through both coursework and industry exposure.

“Embry-Riddle has provided invaluable resources and opportunities that have significantly advanced my professional aspirations.”

Faculty mentorship connected him with industry leaders, while opening doors to networking opportunities.

Driven by a keen interest in the commercial jet market, Qilong collected valuation reports from leading aircraft consulting firms, deepening his understanding of aircraft finance.

“This experience allowed me to gain concrete insights and brought me closer to understanding the market and achieving my career goals,” he said.

Building a Global Network Through ISTAT

His involvement with ISTAT became central to his growth. After receiving the ISTAT Foundation Scholarship, Qilong quickly moved from observer to participant in the global aviation marketplace.

“During ISTAT Asia 2024, my former boss asked me to assist with the remarketing of three E190 aircraft and CF34-10E engines.”

Through events like ISTAT Asia, ISTAT Americas and ISTAT Freighter, he expanded both his experience and professional network.

“ISTAT is an outstanding aviation education platform for students. It provides young aviation professionals with the guidance and experience needed to start their careers successfully,” he noted.

Confidence Through Challenge

Qilong’s selection for the ISTAT Foundation 2.0 Program marked another turning point. Working with an international team, he balanced professional responsibilities with intensive study.

“We collaborated during the day while dedicating nights and weekends to study,” he said. “Completing the program reinforced my decision to pursue a master’s in aviation finance and expanded my professional network.”

A New Way of Thinking

Through his studies and experiences, Qilong developed a perspective grounded in exploration and continuous learning.

“Aviation finance operates on an international standard,” he said. “The knowledge I gained from Embry-Riddle and ISTAT is applicable worldwide.”

He credits his success to asking questions, building relationships and embracing new ideas.

“Key skills included understanding aircraft financing models, effectively communicating with professors and classmates, cultivating a drive to explore and consistently asking questions,” he said.

That mindset led to unexpected achievements, including authoring a research thesis on airport incentive programs in China, which was later presented at an international aviation conference.

“Honestly, I never imagined that I could complete such a thesis and present it at an international aviation conference,” he said.

The Road Ahead

Qilong remains inspired by aviation’s global nature and the opportunity to connect people and markets across continents.For those considering a career change or feeling uncertain about their path, his message is rooted in experience: