Six Questions With a Blue Angel
An elite team is required to keep the Blue Angels flying high. Each support team member offers a unique skill set and is expected to perform with precision. Kai Timoll, who earned her B.S. in Logistics and Supply Chain Management from Embry‑Riddle’s Worldwide Campus in 2021, spent two years as part of the Blue Angels, the Navy’s elite flight demonstration squadron, where she specialized in keeping the team’s supply chain in good working order.
We caught up with the busy Jamaican native and she sat down to answer our questions about her accomplishments and the vital role Embry‑Riddle has played in her career so far.
Tell us about your work with the Blue Angels.
I served with the Blue Angels from November 2019 to November 2021 as the Logistics Assistant Leading Petty Officer. My responsibilities included managing squadron budget, procurement of aircraft parts and sending parts in need of repair to various repair facilities, managing squadron fuel cards, procuring team uniforms and uniform components, and being a part of the ground crew for the squadron.
How has Embry‑Riddle helped you professionally?
Embry‑Riddle provided me with the flexibility to complete my bachelor’s degree through online courses. Several other team members and I attended Embry‑Riddle. We had hectic schedules throughout the air show season, but we were able to complete assignments after work and whenever we had down time during the flight demonstration. Upon completion of my degree, I applied to Officer Candidate School and was accepted. I commissioned as a Supply Officer on May 13, 2022.
How have the faculty and academic advisors supported you?
All of the advisors and professors I had were equally supportive. At times we would have emergency situation that resulted in assignments being turned in late, but the professors were lenient once the issues were communicated.
What sparked your interest in this career field?
My main interest is logistics. I became intrigued by aviation supply when I arrived at my first duty station in Jacksonville, Florida, where I served as an Aviation Supply Logistics Specialist supporting various aircraft in the area.
Can you give us a brief history of aviation in Jamaica from your point of view?
Growing up, not many of my peers sought out a career in aviation, as it was too far out of reach from a financial standpoint, and it was not a popular career move. Now there are many Jamaican-born pilots working for various airlines. Aviation training is much more accessible and aspiring pilots have a better opportunity to enter into the field of aviation.
What do your achievements mean to you, your family and your hometown of Old Harbor in Jamaica?
I am currently the first college graduate, first military member, first Naval Officer and the first Blue Angel in my family. My parents and siblings are extremely supportive and proud, and so is my hometown.
Embry‑Riddle is proud of you too.