The Perfect Blend: Psychology and Engineering in Human Factors

Margaret Colwell (’25) was drawn to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University because of a growing interest in aviation which began in her final years of high school, when she built an RV-12is – a fully functional aircraft assembled from a kit that provides the necessary instructions and pieces.

“We started the build in 2020 and finished in 2022, when we flew the plane up to EAA AirVenture (the world's largest airshow taking place in Oshkosh, Wisconsin),” she shared. “After this, we sold the plane and used the funds to buy another kit so another generation of kids would be able to learn the skills necessary to build and fly.”

She got involved in the process as a founding member of the Kettle Moriane Youth Aviation Club and worked alongside a mentor and 15 of her peers to assemble the aircraft.

“This kick-started my passion for aviation, and I have not looked back since,” she said of the experience. “Embry-Riddle is one of the only schools in the country that offers Human Factors Psychology as an undergraduate program and combining this with Aviation was a dream come true.”

Finding the Perfect Program

Now, Colwell is a junior studying Human Factors Psychology with a minor in Aviation Safety on Embry-Riddle's Prescott Campus. She was attracted to her program not only because of its unique availability at Embry-Riddle but also because of the opportunity to pursue a degree that combines her interests.

“I chose this program as I have a passion for psychology, [but] my brain is wired for engineering,” she said. “However, this combines both psychology and engineering. It is my passion to help people, and this [program] is an effective way to use design to help create designs that are more helpful and easier to use for all people.”

Life at ERAU

Since arriving on campus, Colwell has dedicated much of her time to getting involved in the community.

On top of her involvement in the Women in Aviation Club, American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES) and the Robertson Aviation Safety Center on campus, Colwell is a Resident Assistant (RA) in the Thumb Butte Complex Suites (T2) which house first-year students.

Academically, Colwell is involved as a researcher for the OPTIMUS project on campus, which deals with a review of the implications of fatigue on Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Air Traffic Control personnel.

“I worked with students from each of the other two Embry-Riddle campuses, and we were able to bring together our research at the capital [Washington, D.C.] and present to stakeholders,” she said. “I am continuing to do some more specific research looking at the impact of fatigue and stress on air traffic controllers and the psychological implications these have. This research is going to be a pilot study and largely exploratory, so we will have baseline data to present in our grant application for a larger FAA grant later this academic year.”

Outside of campus involvement and coursework, Colwell takes the time to enjoy the nature that surrounds the Prescott Campus.

“Outside of school, I like to unicycle, hike, spend any time outdoors and find time to spend with dogs,” she shared.

Finding Inspiration

Colwell says she enjoys studying human factors because it gives her the opportunity to make positive differences in people’s lives.

“What motivates me is giving back to communities around the country and globe,” she shared.

She also says she finds inspiration in others who follow and achieve their dreams.

“It inspires me to see other people chasing their dreams and putting their best foot forward,” she said. “There is a level of respect I have for people who can chase their dreams and keep pushing despite any type of adversity they may be facing.”

Post-undergraduate, Colwell plans on pursuing both a master’s and Ph.D. in the same field of Human Factors. She offered a word of advice to those who may be considering a similar academic path, pertaining to effort and dedication.

“Work hard, and someone will notice,” she said. “If you push yourself, others will notice and doors will open. You do not always need to do everything yourself, but pushing yourself is a fantastic way to start opening doors.”

What can you achieve at Embry-Riddle? Apply today and find out!