Preparing to Lead Airports and Aviation Policy on a Global Scale

When Khanh Tran arrived at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Prescott Campus, he didn’t just see a place to study aviation; he saw a launchpad. Today, as a senior dual major in Aviation Business Administration and Aeronautics with a minor in Aviation Safety, Tran is building the experience, confidence and global perspective needed to manage airports and reimagine aviation’s future in Vietnam and beyond.

An international student from Saigon, Vietnam, Tran’s journey reflects Embry-Riddle’s mission to prepare students for leadership roles in aviation and aerospace through applied learning, mentorship and real-world experience.

Discovering a Path Through Aviation Leadership

Tran’s interest in airport management took shape through firsthand exposure to the industry. A tour with Cary Buchanan at Los Angeles International Airport offered him an inside look at how large-scale aviation operations function and what leadership in that environment looks like.

Later, an internship at Sedona Airport cemented his direction. Working closely with industry professionals, Tran gained insight into how airports operate from the ground up, from safety planning to daily operations.

Those experiences didn’t just inform his academic choices — they clarified his purpose.

Why Embry-Riddle

When it came time to choose a university, Tran knew specialization mattered.

He ultimately chose Embry-Riddle for its aviation-focused education and industry credibility — a decision he says has been reinforced time and again.

“There were multiple moments that confirmed I made the right choice studying at Embry-Riddle. It’s being able to study with such knowledgeable professors that makes me feel I'm in the right place. At the same time, I was able to learn from them about how they start careers, how they get to where they are and how they support students today. If I were able to recommend a student to go to school here, I would definitely recommend they come!”

That confidence has been strengthened by close faculty mentorship across his academic journey.

“My professors throughout my whole journey at Embry-Riddle were great mentors in helping me grow personally and professionally in my field. They were essential to my journey here at Embry-Riddle.”

Learning That Connects Beyond the Classroom

For Tran, one of the most powerful aspects of his Embry-Riddle experience has been how seamlessly coursework translates into professional application.

“Everything I’ve learned here can connect to a real-life experience; my Sedona internship experience with Ed Rose and the crew allowed me to do that.”

In his aviation safety coursework, Tran applied classroom knowledge directly to airport operations by revising Sedona Airport’s Airport Emergency Plan. In his Professional Consulting class, he developed a portfolio that enabled him to pursue consulting work beyond campus.

These experiences are part of what makes Embry-Riddle distinctive — learning doesn’t stop at theory. It extends into environments where decisions matter.

The Power of the Embry-Riddle Name

Tran has also seen how Embry-Riddle’s reputation opens doors across the aviation industry.

“It is actually the name of Embry-Riddle. Whenever I go to a conference or event outside of Embry-Riddle with my name badge on, people recognize our school. It has opened up how much I can connect and network with people.”

Through organizations like the Arizona Airports Association (AzAA) and the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), Tran has built professional relationships while gaining exposure to current challenges facing airports and aviation leaders.

A scholarship from AzAA has also helped him take the next step toward professional certification — positioning him competitively for future leadership roles. 

Leadership, Community and a Place to Belong

On campus, Tran serves as president of the Entrepreneurship Club, where he helps connect students with local businesses for hands-on projects and internships. Under his leadership, the club has supported student-founded ventures such as Express3D Prints, hosted industry-focused events like Eagle Tank and partnered with organizations across Prescott.

Beyond leadership roles, Tran says Embry-Riddle’s close-knit environment has shaped his personal growth. That sense of belonging helped him grow beyond his comfort zone.

“I used to be very shy and an introvert. I wouldn’t even connect with professors. But after I got here, Embry-Riddle made me feel like I was part of a big family. I was able to open up and connect with people and join them on their journeys of growth.”

Looking Ahead: Airports, Policy and Global Impact

After graduating in December 2026, Tran plans to begin his career as an airport manager in Arizona. Long-term, his vision reaches much farther.

He hopes to play a role in modernizing aviation law in Vietnam — expanding access to general aviation and creating new opportunities for growth in the region.

It’s an ambitious goal, grounded in careful study and real-world experience — exactly the kind Embry-Riddle prepares students to pursue.