Education
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, M.S. Aeronautics
Northeastern Illinois University, B.A. Philosophy
Areas of Specialization
General Aviation, Aviation Science, Human Factors, Unmanned Systems
Licenses and Affiliations:
- FAA Private Pilot Certificate
- FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
- FAA Safety Team Representative
- AUVSI Member
What is your teaching style?
I believe in teaching the “why” behind everything we do through perception, processes, and performance.
Why do you do what you do?
Aviation and drone technologies capture the imagination and inspire us to think and act both procedurally and creatively. This, along with my inner child who is still captivated by all things flying, makes this a very exciting field of study. Inspiring students to reach into the literal or metaphorical wild blue yonder is extremely rewarding, and we all get to learn a little more along the way.
How do you make learning engaging?
The aviation bug is fairly contagious. One of the reasons for this is because it allows students at all phases to become immersed in knowledge and action. In other words, we learn cool things and fly! Granted, not every topic sells itself which is why I believe in understanding students individually and relating topics to their interests. The variety of sensory and activity-based teaching and learning methods in aviation science is by nature engaging.
What should students know about you?
I enjoy getting to know students, hearing about their experiences, goals, and challenges. Doing so not only helps me understand their world, but helps create cohesion in the classroom. This is part of my devotion to continuous learning. I always like to add humor to learning and on occasion will begin class with an outdated cartoon teaching a timeless lesson.