Dustin Foote Reaches New Heights at Embry‑Riddle

When we last spoke to Dustin Foote (’23, ’24) in 2023, he had recently completed his Associate of Science in Aviation Maintenance at Embry‑Riddle after eight years of service in the U.S. Army.

After transitioning to a role at The Boeing Company through the Department of Defense’s (DoD) SkillBridge program, Foote quickly climbed the ranks in his division, spearheading new training programs, working within avionics integration labs and finding his place in a role within Boeing Test and Evaluation (BT&E).

At the end of 2024, Foote graduated with his B.S. in Aviation Maintenance at Embry‑Riddle–an accomplishment that sheds light on his journey to success. Along with his diploma, Foote was awarded the Spirit Award by the College of Aviation and the SGA for Outstanding Academic Achievement.

Now, we've connected once again with Foote to hear his thoughts on perseverance and motivation and why Embry‑Riddle Worldwide was the right fit for launching his future.

Finding Motivation for More

Growing up, Foote’s family experienced struggles that inspired him to strive for more. Financial struggles shaped their homes, cars and trips to the grocery store–an issue he never wants his wife and daughter to have to face.

Foote says that his drive for success is fueled by these past experiences.

“I don’t ever want that, for me or my family. I also feel like because I have the opportunity, the skill and the ability to be a good leader, I should,” he said. “I enjoy being the person that people can depend on, having to think critically and solving problems.”

Thinking back on his early years at Embry‑Riddle, Foote remembers the hard work and dedication required to balance his enlistment with academic success. After completing his A.S., he wanted to take control of his education and become more knowledgeable about what lay ahead.

“I mapped out multiple possible course schedules and it seemed like it was going to take years. Then I realized that if I put my nose to the grindstone and took three courses at a time, I could complete my degree by December of 2024,” he said. “That was the spark I needed; I could see an end date rather than some obscure goal. So, I mapped it out, conferred with my advisor and set to it.”

“My process got so much easier, and my motivation went way up when I finally got involved and understood what I was working toward––how long it would take and how to get there from here.”

Earning Another Degree

As Foote continued his education, his experiences in his courses shaped his skills and knowledge outside of the classroom.

Particularly, he enjoyed Organizational Behavior and Management of the Multicultural Workforce, both taught by Dr. Juan C. Deliz, an instructor in the College of Business – citing both as “relevant and applicable to everyday work life” and “engaging and interesting.”

The curriculum’s applicability was underscored by the environment facilitated by Dr. Deliz – whom Foote spoke of in the highest regard.

“He is a great instructor, and I thoroughly enjoyed his tutelage. He is so involved and active in the course and hosted weekly live discussions via Zoom, which really involves interaction that you do not typically get in online courses,” Foote said. “He contributed so much depth, but in a real, down-to-earth manner, from his extensive experience and education.”

In addition, he noted another perk of pursuing his degree at Embry‑Riddle – connecting and bonding with his peers.

“I have met so many wonderful people with such a wealth of knowledge and experience from all around the world, so many careers and walks of life, from instructors and students,” he said. “I have had joyous reunions with people I served with; we just happened to end up in the same course, and those were a treat.”

Foote had the opportunity to attend commencement and walk the stage at graduation in Prescott–a moment worth celebrating.

“I think of all the effort I put in, the long nights/weeks, the constant balancing act with work/family, time/school, the setbacks and that it was all worth it. and it led to this. I am... overwhelmed with joy,” he said.

Foote’s proud family attended the ceremony—his wife and daughter, best friend, parents, siblings, aunts and uncles and more.

Looking Ahead

Foote’s plans for advancing his education, skills and experience don’t end here. He will soon begin his MBA in Aviation, also at Embry‑Riddle, along with a graduate certificate in Project Management. He’s eyeing a second master’s or doctorate from there – always working to, in his own words, “...keep the momentum going and build upon the habits and dedication I have established now.”

Now, he is working within United Airline’s Aviate Academy as an aviation maintenance technician (A&P)– but his career goals go even further. Beyond a desire to solidify his standing as a subject matter expert in aviation maintenance, Foote wants to lead and make a difference in the field.

“I want to make a difference, wherever I am, and have a positive influence on operations, business success and the people around me as well,” he said.

How to Succeed

Through his time pursuing his degrees, Foote has acquired some tips, tricks and strategies for staying motivated and finding success.

“Set milestones and celebrate/acknowledge your progress and accomplishments. Don't dismiss achieving things, like passing a difficult course or earning a high grade, and so on,” he said. “Your time, your effort and your dedication did those things; you did those things. Stay proud and drive on! And if there is a setback, don't let it discourage you; use it, let it drive you to overcome it, and celebrate that too.”

Further, Foote encourages his fellow veterans to take it one step at a time and use the resources available to them.

“There are so many resources available to veterans; it is ok to use them! Use them! If you have questions, ask them! Your service means something, and the benefits provided in return for your service are so valuable. Don't let them go to waste—you earned them.”