In this episode, Ron Fielding, a retired Boeing engineer, reflects on his career and how well his education at Embry-Riddle prepared him for his work. He graduated in 1986 with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering, attending both Prescott and Daytona Beach campuses. Ron started at Boeing in defense, transitioning to commercial aircraft and eventually working with Boeing Materials and Technology (BMT), in Quality Assurance and as a Standards Engineer managing specifications and standards for aircraft materials and processes. Ron estimates that he wrote over 100 feet of paperwork, including detailed specifications for materials and hardware. He emphasizes the importance of clear, concise documentation for international manufacturers from different backgrounds. He hopes that current Embry-Riddle students will study hard and enjoy their time at the university.

Lily Davis, a 2024 graduate from Embry-Riddle's Prescott campus, currently works in the university's philanthropy and alumni department. She transitioned from a forensic biology major to an administrative coordinator role, handling donor interactions, gift processing, and legal documentation. Lily recalls her unique freshman year during COVID-19, marked by virtual classes and daily temperature checks. She emphasizes the importance of following one's passions and shares her journey from job applications to her current position, which involved a fast-paced transition and overcoming personal challenges. Lily advises students to be open to new experiences and to follow their true interests.

Mitchel Graham, an Embry-Riddle Prescott graduate and aeronautical engineer at Lockheed Martin, discusses his journey into aircraft and UAV design, emphasizing the value of hands-on experience and strong, versatile communication skills. He shares career highlights, favorite projects like Speed Racer, and advice for students on building friendships, participating in clubs, and staying physically active. He hopes all current Eagles are enjoying their time at Embry-Riddle!

Hope Elmer, a second-year PhD student at Texas A&M, discusses her research on shape memory alloys, with a shout-out to Dr. David Lanning who helped spur her interest in materials research while she was at ERAU. She mentions how important time management is as a skill for breaking big goals into manageable steps. To communicate her research to other engineers, academics, and general audiences, Hope and her collaborator need to carefully design data visualizations to illustrate their results and to help tell a clear story about the potential impacts of their project.  For current Embry-Riddle students, Hope says to get involved and join clubs based on your interests and goals.  

Austin Johnson, a recent graduate from Embry Riddle, discusses his transition from aerospace to mechanical engineering and his current role as an operations engineer at Edwards Air Force Base. He highlights the importance of learning and adapting in his job, which involves writing concise and clear test cards and plans. Austin emphasizes the significance of rhetorical and technical writing skills developed during his education. He advises current students to maximize their learning opportunities and involvement in extracurricular activities to prepare for the real-world challenges and responsibilities of their future careers.

Phil Rosnik, a 1986 graduate of Embry-Riddle's Prescott campus, is an alum from the 5th ever graduating class at Embry. He majored in Aviation Business Management and minored in Aeronautical Science and Engineering, earning two associate degrees. Phil emphasizes the importance of writing in professional life, providing examples from his career at Goodrich Aerospace and United Technologies. He advises students to reflect on their career paths, hire smartly, and prioritize quality work.

Holly Paget, a computer engineering graduate from Embry Riddle, currently works at Micron Technology in Boise, Idaho. She manages teams that stress test memory chips to ensure longevity. Holly emphasizes the importance of clear communication and technical writing in her role, highlighting the need for concise, efficient reports. She notes the difference between academic and industry writing, stressing the importance of learning how to learn and asking questions. Holly advises new graduates to seek help proactively and to embrace questioning to succeed in the industry.

Samantha Greene (2023, Aerospace Engineering) tells our new host Leah Little about her career in the navy. She writes technical maintenance procedures for various aircraft and coordinates this work with mechanics and engineers. In her advice to current students, she shares some realities of the job search-- hundreds of applications may yield only dozens of interviews. No matter the challenges of college and beyond, "Keep going, you'll get through it!" Samantha says.

Austin Morgan, a 2024 Embry-Riddle graduate and mechanical engineer at Unico Mechanical Corporation, discusses his career in hydropower engineering. He works on refurbishing and repairing equipment, including hydraulic servos for the Hoover Dam. Austin emphasizes the value of clear, concise, audience-aware communication in his work; he needs to track every step of each repair and report to colleagues depending on their information needs. He advises current students to actively engage in campus life and try as many activities as they can before they graduate and trade the relative freedom of college for a 40-hour work week.  

Owen Smith hosts a special episode of his podcast, "What's the Word," to bid farewell to co-host Abigail Bradbury as she graduates from Embry Riddle and moves back to Texas. Abigail shares her excitement about pursuing her CFI and the opportunities ahead. She reflects on the importance of effective email writing, influenced by Dr. Chesley's advice. Abigail highlights the value of time management and encourages stepping out of one's comfort zone. Owen expresses his gratitude for Abigail's contributions and discusses the podcast's future, aiming to expand its reach beyond the Prescott campus. The episode concludes with Abigail handing the reins to Owen.