As the pilot shortage continues to be a focus in the media, the airline industry is facing yet another shortfall which has received less coverage: A shortage of aviation maintenance technicians (AMTs) – the people who maintain, repair, inspect and overhaul aircraft every time they are grounded. Without sign-off from an AMT, a plane cannot fly. With air travel approaching pre-pandemic levels, the demand for AMTs is greater than ever before. So, how dire is the shortage?
According to Boeing’s Pilot and Technician Outlook 2022-2041, the industry will need as many as 610,000 new civil maintenance technicians over course of the next 20 years. That’s an even greater demand than for new pilots (excluding business aviation), which is projected to reach a need of 602,000 during the same time frame. Adding pilots to the workforce is useless without also adding maintenance technicians. How do you capitalize on this surging demand? If becoming an aviation maintenance technician interests you, then Vaughn’s A&P certificate program can be your ticket to this futureproof career.
What is the role of an aircraft mechanic?
Essentially, aircraft mechanics oversee the operations of various types of aircraft—which include jets and helicopters—by maintaining and repairing their systems and components. Just imagine: For every flight that lands in the United States, there is a crew of aircraft mechanics who must inspect the plane and sign off on each protocol to make sure that every facet of its mechanics is working properly and efficiently before it can take flight again. Without these highly skilled professionals, planes cannot fly. Talk about an in-demand career!
How Vaughn can get you there in as little as 16 months
Great starting salary and overtime – AMTs in New York can earn up to $37 per hour in just their first year and have many opportunities for overtime.
Flight benefits – AMTs can receive discounted or even free flights, depending on the employer.
Sectors of aviation – in addition to working in commercial, general (e.g., personal, business or emergency transport) or military aviation, AMTs can also work in other sectors such as theme parks or wind turbines.
Keeping people safe – at the end of the day, AMTs keep airplanes running smoothly which saves lives.
Opportunities for growth, continued learning and advancement – the aviation industry is constantly evolving and expanding as new technology is developed, which creates a continuous pipeline new jobs and opportunities. There is no limit to where this career can take you, as long as you work hard and continue to hone your skills.
What are your plans for the future? As noted above, Vaughn’s ATI program can prepare you for a job in the aviation industry in as little as 16 months. Learn more about this exciting opportunity at our Aviation Maintenance Info. Session on Thursday, December 15 at 6 p.m. We hope to see you there!
The management department at Vaughn College welcomed the Honorable Christopher Hart, chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)(Ret.) and founder of Hart Solutions, LLP to its Industry Insights Speaker Series, sponsored by ATL Partners. Hosted by Dr. Maxine Lubner and Adjunct Professor Loretta Alkalay, Hart discussed the vulnerabilities of automation as he took the audience through serious—and in some cases tragic—journeys of several accidents where automation met human operation. At this event, students learned the importance of safety in all forms of transportation as well as how the benefits of earning Vaughn’s Safety Management Systems Certificate can start them on their way to a futureproof career.
About Christopher Hart
For nearly 50 years, Christopher Hart’s stellar expertise as a lawyer, pilot and government official has earned him a sterling reputation as an expert in the transportation safety industry. After working at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), he returned to the NTSB, having previously served there for several years. In 2009, he was sworn in as a member, where he held several positions. Five years later, President Barack Obama nominated Hart to serve as the agency’s thirteenth chairman—a position he held until 2017. Hart holds a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in aeronautical engineering from Princeton University, and a Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School.
Notable Accidents in Transportation
Metro Collision, Washington, DC—2009
Hart opened the discussion with the metro collision of 2009 in Washington, DC, which he described as a failure of automation. At that time, Hart said there was “some automation” in place and explained how a defect in the system’s design led to the fatal train collision. Here’s what transpired. First, Hart began by describing a dispatch board that shows the entire transit system and where the trains are located. A defect in the system resulted in a train on the tracks being “electronically invisible”—which gave no warning to the second train traveling miles behind it that there was another train ahead. Thinking that the rail was clear, the operator of the second train accelerated as it approached a curve. As it made its way around this curve, the operator saw the first train and applied the emergency brakes. Tragically, it was too late and the operator and eight passengers were killed. Working at the NTSB at the time of this accident, Hart said there is a lesson to be learned. “Automation needs to assume reality,” he said. “The software should have picked up that the train was there. The failure is obvious. If the signal disappeared, then still assume the train is still in place.”
Human Factors “Error Trap” in Strasbourg, France—1992
Hart described this tragic airplane crash in Strasbourg, France as “fascinating”—because the fate of the passengers and crew came down to a simple decimal point. Wondering how that could be? Here are the details of the crash. As he began, Hart outlined several risk factors of the flight which he described as an “accident waiting to happen.”
These were the situational risk factors:
Flight occurred at night
Mountainous terrain
No ground radar
No ground-based ground slope guidance
No airborne terrain alerting equipment
Although the plane was equipped with a sophisticated autopilot, Hart claimed it was “autopilot ambiguity” that caused the crash. Here’s what happened: While preparing for landing, the pilot programmed the autopilot system incorrectly by not including a decimal point in the speed at which the plane should descend. The correct programming should have been “3.2” in the window—which means to descend at a 3.2-degree angle (about 700 feet per minute at 140 knots). Instead, the pilot failed to include the decimal point and entered “32” (without the decimal point) in the window, which indicated that the plane should descend at 3,200 feet per minute.
Due to this gross error—in addition to flying at night—the pilots didn’t know they were approaching the ground as quickly as they were and crashed before reaching the airport. “This is a textbook example of threats and errors,” he said. “We need to correct situations that can lead to mistakes. In this case, a simple decimal point was the difference between life and death.” So, what could have prevented this accident? Hart said the industry needs the human factor in situations like this: Experts who will fly in a simulator to help investigators understand what happened. He continued by emphasizing how a proactive flight data recorder readout program could have helped safety experts identify this problem before the crash.
Landing on the Hudson: Unanticipated Circumstances—2009
The landing of U.S. Airways Flight 1549 on the Hudson River—or more popularly known as the “Miracle on the Hudson”—will go down in aviation history as one of the most remarkable landings in our lifetime. Here is what happened:
On January 15, 2009, the Airbus A320 was on its regularly scheduled flight from New York City to Charlotte and Seattle when it struck a flock of birds shortly after takeoff—causing all the engines to lose power. Unable to reach an airport, pilots Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger and Jeffrey Skiles had to make a split-second decision to attempt a water landing in the river without any power. The pilots were unaware that the plane was equipped with phugoid damping, which inhibited three and one-half degrees of nose-up alpha during flare. This resulted in a higher vertical speed upon impact. Hart—who says this landing is not a miracle at all—credits several factors for the successful outcome that resulted in no fatalities. Some of these factors included:
Good engine design
A robust system
Well-trained pilots
He stated in this particular situation, stick and rudder skills and discipline played major roles in the successful outcome of this accident. “We need to train commercial pilots with these skills,” Hart said. “For this accident, the human factor was the most reliable.” As amazing as this water landing was, Hart said had the pilots known of the phugoid damping, it may have reduced damaged and injuries.
Hart’s Final Thoughts
Hart concluded his presentation with some closing thoughts on automation in aviation:
Automation has a proven track record of benefits.
As automation becomes more reliable, complex and capable, the challenges will increase—both when the automation is not functioning as designed, as well as when it is functioning properly.
Automation failure is rare. Problems are more likely to be related to human factors and/or unanticipated circumstances.
Checklists will face many of the same challenges as automation since they are simply operator-enabled automation.
A management or aviation degree can prepare you for an exciting and in-demand career. Here’s how Vaughn can get you there.
Vaughn’s Aviation and Management Programs
Vaughn offers a range of bachelor’s, master’s, associate and certificate programs in aviation, management and aviation maintenance. As a leading institution in these industries, the College is setting the pace by providing its students with the skills they need to land jobs in these in-demand fields. Are you ready to pursue your futureproof career? Discover the possibilities of a lifelong career through one of our programs. Apply today!
The management department at Vaughn College welcomed Breeze Airways president Tom Doxey to its Industry Insights Speaker Series, sponsored by ATL Partners. Hosted by Dr. Maxine Lubner and Adjunct Professor Loretta Alkalay, Doxey discussed the exciting ventures of Breeze Airways—a new low-fare airline that is making a name itself with Seriously NiceTM flights and fares. At this event, students learned the benefits of earning Vaughn’s Safety Management Systems Certificate Program—as well as the exciting ways of how they can apply their aviation and management degrees at airlines such as Breeze Airways.
About Doxey
Last spring, industry veteran Tom Doxey was appointed president of Breeze Airways after having held senior positions for six years at United Airlines. Doxey’s job titles at United Airlines included chief financial officer of operations and, most recently, senior vice president of technical operations, where he oversaw the airline’s global technical operations and a team of more than 13,000 employees. With more than 16 years of combined industry experience, Doxey also credits his time at Allegiant Airlines—prior to his roles at United Airlines—as having given him the foundational experience for where he is today.
The Breeze Airways business model
Founded by aviation entrepreneur David Neeleman, Breeze Airways is known on the map as being the industry’s “nicest” airline, as its business model is customer-focused with flexibility, accessibility and integrity at the helm. Doxey outlines the company’s business model as “Seriously Nice.” Here are some key points:
Saves time
Non-stop flights avoid crowded hubs for easier, quicker travel
Convenient airports
Less drive times
Shorter TSA lines
Saves money
Low fares—simple, affordable price structure for a “nice,” “nicer” and “nicest” experience
Creates affordability and accessibility for travelers from all walks of life
More affordable airport parking
Peace of mind
No change or cancellation fees, allowing travelers to cancel 15 minutes prior to flight
Service to convenient, smaller airports, including 93 percent of unserved airports by other carriers
Beautiful, new aircraft with on board entertainment—with Wi-Fi coming soon
Families can sit together without additional charge
Travelers may have a flight credit that’s good for 24 months
Earning their wings
Doxey explained that although Breeze Airways was created during the COVID-19 pandemic, its management team of industry experts overcame several challenges to become one of today’s up and coming low-fare airlines. “Adversity creates strength,” said Doxey. “It helps you to grow through hard, challenging times.” Hard work is surely paying off, as Doxey outlined some of the airline’s impressive accomplishments in its first year of operation.
Travel + Leisure Ranking
Just this year, Travel + Leisure ranked Breeze Airlines as second of the 10 best U.S. domestic airlines in 2021, calling attention to its ease, affordability and seriously nice team members.
Record-setting first year
Breeze Airways has raised $200 million, establishing this airline the best-funded aviation start-up in history.
Operated 9,000 flights across 90 routes.
Future programs and operations
Customer loyalty program
International routes that include the Caribbean and Mexico
How Breeze embraces diversity, culture and the environment
Doxey explained how Breeze is taking tangible steps to address the topics of diversity, inclusion and culture adaptation within the company. “We’re not just talk,” he said. “We have conversations at the senior level that address these topics.” These are two of the steps they are taking:
Values committee—Breeze executives discuss the importance of inclusion and ways to ensure the company is doing everything possible to recognize people of all races, places and orientation as well as celebrating holidays such as Juneteenth and Veteran’s Day, among others.
Listening sessions—Addressing the different perspectives of women and giving them a voice where they may address their needs in the workplace.
And where the environment is concerned, Breeze Airways takes the health of citizens and the planet seriously. Doxey discussed the important ways in which the company is dedicated to keeping noise—and environmental pollution—to a minimum.
Use planes with quieter engines
Structure and adjust business around demand—will not fly planes with only a few customers
Scale back flights in slower months such as September and October
Unique pilot and training programs
Despite the ongoing pilot shortage, Doxey stated that Breeze Airways is focused on building its pilot base. Here are more details about this unique program:
“Breeze Boost” Pilot Program
“Breeze Boost” gives pilots who have less than the required 1,500 flight hours the opportunity to earn the hours they need to flow into its pool of commercial pilots. Doxey says this is an effective way to attract qualified pilots and create a pipeline to the 1,500 hours they need to earn their commercial pilot licenses.
Another unique opportunity for working as a Breeze Airways pilot is the ability to quickly build seniority. As a young airline, pilots who join early on have the opportunity to earn seniority faster than they would from working at larger carriers.
Training Program
Doxey was proud to say that training center and simulators at Breeze Airways are world-class and led by top pilot instructors who are laser-focused on safety.
Doxey’s tips on landing a job in the industry
Doxey was impressed to hear that Vaughn offers the Safety Management Systems Certificate Program. “We look for candidates with safety risk assessment skills,” said Doxey. “Having those tools and mindset is a huge benefit for those looking to be a part of our operations team.” He said the company is hiring for positions across the board—with pilots and technicians as among the more specific openings.
Doxey offered advice to Vaughn students—or anyone—who may be interested in working at Breeze Airways: “We welcome those who are looking to join our team of aviation, hospitality and technology enthusiasts,” he said. “It’s hard work—and you will need to pull up your sleeves—but in the end, it’s an exciting and rewarding opportunity to help create our ‘Seriously NiceTM’ culture.”
Vaughn’s aviation and management programs
Vaughn offers a range of bachelor’s, associate and certificate programs in aviation, management and aviation maintenance. As a leading institution in these industries, the College is setting the pace for providing its students with the skills they need to land jobs in these in-demand fields. Are you ready to pursue your futureproof career? Discover the possibilities of a lifelong career through one of our programs. Apply today!
The management department at Vaughn College welcomed Terry Kilby to its Industry Insights Speaker Series, sponsored by ATL Partners. Hosted by Dr. Maxine Lubner and Adjunct Professor Loretta Alkalay, the live presentation by Kilby—who is a renowned aerial photographer and 3D specialist—focused on drones and the use of 3D scanning for historical preservation and Web3. The event showed Vaughn students new and exciting ways where they can apply their degrees in engineering and technology. Additionally, focus was given to the future direction of the industry as it pertains to the metaverse, Web3, NFT and the blockchain.
About Terry Kilby
For over a decade, 3D capture artist Terry Kilby has been recognized as a leading international expert—both as an aerial photographer and pioneer in the specialties of photogrammetry (3D scanning), panoramic photography (VR photography) and time lapse. Through the use of drones and the application of photogrammetry, Kilby has mastered the higher-level technique of capturing contemporary history and artfully creating photorealistic 3D models for historic preservation, film sets, archaeological sites—and beyond. His groundbreaking work in the documentation of historical sites and monuments is a mind-blowing experience that brings the past to life. Before Kilby found his passion for drones and aerial photography, he worked as mobile software developer and technology lead with a Fortune 50 company.
Aircraft design
Growing up as an avid radio control (RC) hobbyist, Kilby explained how he saw the beginning of the civilian drone industry as a continuation of the RC hobby world. Over the years, he navigated through the drone industry where he witnessed and experienced groundbreaking technology which set the stage for the fascinating work he is known for today.
STEM education
Sharing his love and knowledge for drones and 3D technology led Kilby to become an educator in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). His involvement with foundations and children’s camps was instrumental in spreading the word about drones to the younger generation. Part of his passion with the children was teaching them how to build their first quad copters through the application of 3D printing.
Advanced drone techniques
Blending his creative talents with his experience in software and web development, Kilby developed advanced drone techniques that continue to make a mark in the corporate and historical preservation arenas. Here are some of them:
360o Panoramas: By capturing several 360o panoramic photos and architectural models, Kilby is able to create a working model for a project.
Photogrammetry: Through the recording, measuring and interpreting of the images he captures with drones, Kilby is able to obtain reliable information about the object—or environment—to use for his projects.
3D scanning
The highlight of Kilby’s presentation centered on the amazing capabilities of 3D scanning technology. Here are the types of scanning he uses in his work:
Structured Light
Described as an extremely accurate method of 3D scanning, Kilby shared how this technique assisted in extracting a fingerprint from a 3,000-year-old artifact.
LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) and Photogrammetry
LIDAR is a method of 3D scanning that measures distance through the use of beams of light. For years, it has been used in aviation, being placed under small aircrafts such as Cessnas and terrestrial LIDAR.
Notable projects using 3D scanning
By using photogrammetry, Kilby showcased some of his unique techniques in working with historic structures, one of which was the Berlin Wall. Here are some other fascinating projects that Kilby featured via the use of photogrammetry:
Plantation House
Kilby used a Phantom 4 Pro Drone to capture images that were eventually used to create a 3D animated rendering of a plantation house that had been built in the 1600s. His work was used to help in the restoration project of this historical building.
Mayfield Theatre
Kilby was tasked to create a captivating visual of the Mayfield Theatre in Baltimore—the first African American-owned theatre in the U.S.—which fell into disrepair after undergoing a fire. Through his amazing talents, Kilby created a visual that told the story of the theater, and which ultimately gained the attention of an interested developer who restored the building’s facade.
Slave House
Over the course of three years, a team of archaeologists, historians, engineers and artists used Kilby’s 3D scans of a dig site in Annapolis, Maryland to uncover unique features of slave’s quarters from years ago. They then used that information to recreate an accurate depiction of the building’s interior and exterior.
Who uses 3D scanning?
Kilby addressed the three main areas he works in when it comes to drones and 3D scanning. These are:
Architecture Engineering and Construction (AEC)
Museums
Archaeologists/Historic Preservationist
Unique ways to present projects
Just when attendees of the Industry Insights Speaker Series thought they’d seen the coolest applications that used drones and 3D scanning technology, Kilby went on to describe the different forms of asset presentation. Here is the variety of platforms he uses for asset presentation:
Sketchfab/Web: Considered by Kilby to be the “YouTube of the 3D,” Sketchfab is leading the way to becoming the go to 3D platform for the web.
Virtual Reality (VR) and the Metaverse: Kilby built a virtual reality museum in the Metaverse, where those in the “world” can view his exhibit and communicate with each other.
Augmented Reality (AR): Unlike VR—where one is “sunk” into the experience without any situational awareness of what’s going on around him or her—augmented reality merges assets into the real world around the viewer.
In Real Life (IRL) Museums: This fascinating form of asset presentation allows 3D exhibits to be “transported” and shared at museums worldwide.
Technology that is influencing the future
Kilby concluded by discussing how his work will fit into the future of the internet – including the blockchain, NFTs and the metaverse.
Blockchain
This decentralized ledger allows multiple individuals to store records or information on a “block” in the chain that’s secured by cryptography—which is the storing and transmitting of data in encrypted formats.
Kilby’s thoughts on the cultural impact of blockchain technology are that it:
Democratizes the recording of history
Is a fundamental shift in how history is recorded and will be understood moving forward
NFTs
Non-fungible tokens—or NFTs—are digital assets that are bought and sold online. In 2021, the NFT market was valued at $41 billion dollars.
Vaughn’s certificate and degree programs
The excitement surrounding Kilby’s work with the use of drones and 3D scanning technology is fueling interest in these futuristic career-driven fields. As a leading institution in engineering and technology, aviation and management, Vaughn College is setting the pace by providing its students with the necessary skills to land jobs in these fascinating industries. Which programs interest you? Check each of them out:
Are you ready to pursue your futureproof career? Discover the possibilities of an amazing career with one of our programs. Apply today!
Cybercrime is a lucrative business that is predicted to cost companies—globally—an estimated $10.5 trillion by 2025. With a single cyberattack occurring every 11 seconds, organizations aren’t wasting time in hiring cybersecurity professionals to safeguard their data and computer networks. In fact, experts predict that companies could spend as much as $1.75 trillion for information security. So, who exactly are these professionals that companies are hiring to protect their data?
This month, Vaughn College explores the demand for cybersecurity professionals and the various jobs in this field. Read on to learn how a degree in computer engineering from Vaughn could be your pathway to cashing in on this futureproof career.
Demand for cybersecurity professionals
According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, information security analysts are among the fastest growing occupations in the country—with a projected growth rate of 35 percent over the next nine years. In the U.S. alone, it was reported there are more than 700,000 job openings in the cybersecurity-related field, with approximately 1.8 million positions worldwide that will go unfilled this year. With demand at an all-time high—and no end of sight for the need to protect company data—the future is bright for a career in cybersecurity.
Companies with the greatest need
Every industry—including banking, utility companies, government organizations and healthcare—has come to depend on the world’s cyber infrastructure in order to operate. Last year, the heads of industry giants Google, Apple, Microsoft and Amazon were among the leaders who met with President Biden at the White House to discuss how the nation’s cybersecurity might be improved through a collaboration with the government and private sector. It’s important to note that cybercrime doesn’t discriminate against big corporations. Were you aware that approximately 43 percent of cyberattacks are directed at small businesses? On any given day, owners of these businesses have their hands full in juggling several responsibilities, thus leaving their interests vulnerable to be exploited by cybercriminals. In fact, only about 14 percent of these small businesses are prepared to defend their data.
Cybersecurity careers to meet the demand
As you can imagine, there are several different cybersecurity careers—each with its own set of critical roles—to protect companies from cybercriminals. Here are some career paths to consider:
Cybersecurity engineer
These professionals are responsible for protecting a company’s network and data from unauthorized access—or cyberattack—by designing cybersecurity platforms and building emergency plans in the event of a disaster.
Here are some of the duties and responsibilities of a cybersecurity engineer:
Develop and enforce security plans, standards and protocols
Collaborate with other teams to maintain overall security
Create and install firewalls and intrusion detection systems
Update security software, hardware and facilities
Running encryption programs
Moving data and information after a detected security issue
Required skills:
Strong communication skills
Ability to explain complex issues to management and offer solutions for current security plans and procedures
Ability and willingness to work with law enforcement following a cyberattack
Risk assessment
Computer forensics
Secure coding practices
Education and certifications:
A bachelor’s degree—or higher—in computer engineering, cybersecurity, infosec or a related field is required to work as a cybersecurity engineer.
Cybersecurity analyst
Anyone in this role analyzes reports to identify and examine cyber threats that include viruses, worms, bots and Trojans. Cybersecurity analysts develop malware protection tools to ensure that practices are properly implemented and followed. The scope of their responsibilities is expansive.
Here are some of the duties and responsibilities of a cybersecurity analyst:
Monitor security best practices, protocols and procedures to detect, contain and remediate threats
Control file access and credentialing, network updates and firewall maintenance
Perform penetration testing and vulnerability scans
Recommend relevant changes to improve security
May be enlisted to train employees on cybersecurity hygiene, due to their expertise in security risks and best practices
Required skills:
Solid understanding of how data is stored and managed
Solid understanding of various kinds of cybersecurity threats
Proprietary testing
Risk assessment
Data encryption
Firewall design, configuration, deployment and maintenance
Security incident triaging
Education and certifications:
A bachelor’s degree in computer science, cybersecurity, infosec or a related field is required to work as a cybersecurity analyst.
Network security architect
Similar to an architect who designs plans for buildings and structures, a network security architect plays a critical role in the design of security structures that are used to prevent malware attacks. In addition to performing vulnerability tests, a network security architect maintains network productivity, efficiency, availability and performance to ensure ongoing security of the company.
Here are some of the duties and responsibilities of a network security architect:
Helps translate business needs into functional systems
Defines appropriate policies and procedures for the systems
Monitors budgetary and operational constraints
Undertakes defensive measures such as firewall and antivirus configuration, as well as offensive measures like penetration testing
Oversees network changes
Stays aware of computer systems’ networking requirements such as routing, switching and trust domains
Has knowledge of security best practices, technologies and industry-standard frameworks.
Required skills:
Excellent people, managerial and presentation skills
Strong IT experience
Risk management experience
Knowledge of TCP/IP networking and networking security
ITIL and COBIT IT process models
Intrusion detection systems
Knowledge of VPN layers and connections
Open Systems Interconnection (OSI): 7-layer model
Education and certifications:
A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field is required, although a master’s degree in cybersecurity is preferred.
How Vaughn can get you there
As you’ve read in this blog, the ever-growing field of cybersecurity and computer engineering demands well-trained individuals for a broad range of industries. Vaughn’s degree program is designed to give students the knowledge and skills that are necessary, and where they each can play an important role in the technologies that define modern day life and society.
The computer engineering curriculum emphasizes two well-defined concentrations: cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI). These two concentrations work hand in hand to secure network systems. Although it’s believed that AI will never take the place of cybersecurity jobs, this concentration and machine learning are viable players in the growth of the industry.
Are you interested in an in-demand, high-paying job in cybersecurity? Vaughn’s computer engineering degree program could be your pathway to an exciting futureproof career. Apply today!
Careers in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) are among the top choices of Generation Z (Gen Z) students, according to the 2022 Career Interest Survey, which was conducted earlier this year by The National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS). Read on to learn the factors that are driving these high-achieving students to pursue careers in these in-demand industries and how Vaughn College has the degree programs and partnerships to get them there.
Who are Gen Zs?
Members of Generation Z are individuals who were born after 1997. They are considered the most diverse American generation and are larger than any preceding age group. At more than 90 million members, the oldest Gen Z members are 25 years old. So, why is this generation choosing STEM fields as their top career choices? Let’s find out.
Why are Gen Zs choosing STEM careers?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand in STEM fields is projected to grow by 10.5 percent over the next eight years. The survey revealed how students are shifting their focus from degrees in education, the arts and legal studies and opting to major in fields where they can make an impact on the economy and the world—such as in STEM-related jobs and healthcare. Another finding revealed that not only is the STEM field the number one career choice among respondents, but it continues to grow particularly among female and black students. Careers in these in-demand fields bring job security, high-paying salaries and room for advancement, thus making the degrees more appealing.
The survey revealed the goals, preferences and attitudes of high achieving high school and college-aged individuals, as well as their feelings toward employment and career aspirations. As stated earlier, the diverse nature of members of Gen Z places them in a unique category where equity for all is a priority. In fact, more than one-fifth (22 percent) of respondents said their own experiences with racial inequality influenced their career choices, and one-third fluently speak a language other than English. Here are some of the factors that matter most to the Gen Z group when looking for their first full-time job is concerned:
Professional growth
Provide in-person training
Opportunity to learn skills for the purpose of career advancement
Pathway to promotion
Professional development opportunities
Personal preferences
Reflect and respect diversity
Fair treatment of all employees across all genders and races
Offer employer flexibility
Display corporate social responsibility
Have a boss who is like a mentor
Upper management must have good communication skills
Listen to our latest podcast featuring Vaughn alumna Kirei Watson ’18 (mechanical engineering major) and how she broke down barriers to land and excel in her job as a rotational program engineer at Collins Aerospace.
How can a Vaughn degree get you there?
Another key takeaway from the survey is the discovery of the love of learning among the Gen Z group—especially when it comes to hands-on training. At Vaughn College, our degree programs in engineering and technology, computer engineering and aviation offer students the best of both worlds: Lecture instructions by professors with real-world experience and hands-on instruction where students put what they’ve learned to work. In fact, the rapid advancements in technology are making these degrees some of the most sought-after by today’s college-bound students. And were you aware that aviation degrees can fall under a STEM-related focus in some instances? Today’s staffing shortage crisis in the aviation industry is increasing the demand for jobs across the board.
Vaughn provides invaluable industry connections and experiences
Vaughn is committed to the success of its students. By providing invaluable programs like Employer Engagement Days, Open House and Info. Session events, career fairs, speaker series and our Computer Engineering Summer Boot Camp, Vaughn goes above and beyond to ensure that its students have the opportunities and access to industry leaders who are ready to hire. Here are some industry giants, federal agencies and airports that actively recruit Vaughn students:
Atlas Air
Boeing
Cyient
Delta
Endeavor Air
Federal Aviation Administration
Jet Blue Airways
John F. Kennedy International Airport
LaGuardia Gateway Partners
Lockheed Martin
Metro-North Railroad
NASA
Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
Pratt & Whitney
SpaceX
Sikorsky
Textron Aviation
United Airlines
Volvo
What is NSHSS?
The National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) is an acclaimed academic honor society which recognizes and serves high achieving student scholars in more than 26,000 high schools across 170 countries. These academically outstanding students represent the most promising diverse talent for the emerging workforce and their communities.
About the survey
The survey revealed the opinions and insights of over 11,000 of the highest achieving high school students, college students and recent college graduates who represent Gen Z in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, U.S. military bases overseas and U.S. territories of American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Are you ready to be a part of the next generation of professionals in the emerging STEM-related industry? A degree from Vaughn can make your dream a reality. Apply today!
Flight cancellations, delays, crowded airports. Sound familiar? If you’ve traveled by air recently, you more than likely have experienced some of these disruptions. With the ongoing national pilot shortage fueling part of what we may call “travel chaos,” airlines are taking control by initiating their own pilot training programs. And just last month, U.S. Senate representatives got on board in response to the pilot shortfall. So, will the problem get worse before it gets better? Buckle up as Vaughn College takes a closer look at how the industry is responding to this demand and explains how its programs and partnerships are the perfect combination to educate and train the next generation of pilots.
An unprecedented demand for pilots
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 14,500 pilot openings are projected each year over the next decade. This unprecedented demand stems in part from the early retirement of pilots during the pandemic, a reduced number of trained military pilots and the high cost of aviation training. To fill this gap in the pilot pipeline, Republic Airways and United Airlines, among other well-known companies, have initiated their own pilot training programs to meet the demand. Let’s take a look at how they operate.
How the industry is responding to the shortfall
Republic Airways
Republic Airways—a regional airline that services Delta Connection and United Express, among others—is on a mission to train pilots, fast. The goal is to teach pilots in a shorter period of time through intense training that is mission-specific to flying commercial airplanes. Republic Airways believes its pilot training program is so good, that it rivals the military by using more technology and better simulation. Instead of the 1,500 flight hours that is required for commercial pilots, Republic Airways filed a request with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requesting that its pilots be allowed to fly with only 750 flight hours. And, to sweeten the deal, Republic Airways is offering deep discounts and jobs to students who finish this program.
United Airlines
At United Airlines’ training facility in Denver, Colorado, former Blue Angel and Top Gun pilots are training regional and military pilots on how to fly commercial airliners safely and professionally. Pilots who are new to United Airlines spend five weeks training in a simulator, where they learn the intricacies about the specific planes they will be flying. The program is proving successful, having turned out a record of 40-to-70 new hires a week.
U.S Senator’s Legislation Addresses Pilot Shortage
On July 25, 2022, Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) and five other U.S. senators introduced the Let Experienced Pilots Fly Act (S.4607) to address the massive amount of flight cancellations that has been caused by the ongoing pilot shortage. This legislation will raise the mandatory commercial pilot retirement age from 65 to 67, in addition to:
Requiring that pilots over the age of 65 maintain a first-class medical certification, which must be renewed every six months.
Requiring air carriers to continue using pilot training and qualification programs approved by the FAA.
Not changing or altering any other qualification—beyond age—to become a commercial airline pilot.
How Vaughn can help you earn your wings
With 90 years of aviation history under our belts (and yes, they are fastened!) Vaughn students have gone on to pursue amazing careers in the field of aviation as well as engineering and technology and management. And when it comes to our reputation, Vaughn’s aircraft operations (flight) program is one of only 29 institutions that are currently part of the FAA’s Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI.) Vaughn students train on the same equipment used by the FAA, which helps accelerate their training upon acceptance to the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. And were you aware that Vaughn has partnerships in the industry which in turn give students a competitive edge when preparing for their careers? Check these out!
Atlas Air
Vaughn’s long-term relationship with Atlas Air has proven to be truly valuable, as several Vaughn graduates have landed full-time positions in virtually every department with this renowned American cargo airline, passenger charter airline and aircraft lessor based in Purchase, New York. Just recently, Atlas Air and Vaughn faculty collaborated to develop the “Pathway to Success First Officer Trainee Program.” This exciting pilot pathway program is designed to enable new pilots at the RATP level—upon successful completion of a comprehensive training program—to transfer directly to Atlas Air’s 737 air fleet. This is big news, as the program allows new pilots to forgo the traditional pathway through regional airlines and go straight into a career flying Boeing aircraft. And even more enticing is that this program includes a monthly stipend, medical benefits, a 401(k), transportation and accommodations.
Jet Blue Airways “University Gateway” Pilot Pathway Program
Last year, Vaughn College announced its partnership with JetBlue Airways as part of the airline’s ‘University Gateway’ Pilot Pathway Program. This is the airline’s longest-running pathway program that allows flight students who attend Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI)-accredited institutions—such as Vaughn—to apply and interview for positions at JetBlue while completing their collegiate courses. Once accepted, students will follow a defined path to gain experience and build their flight time before joining JetBlue as first officers upon completion of the program.
Heritage Flight Academy
Vaughn’s contract with Heritage Flight Academy gives Vaughn aircraft operations (flight) students the opportunity to put their knowledge into action—at the controls and in the air—by giving them direct access to the latest technology, equipment and skilled flight instructors. Since 2013, Heritage Flight Academy—located at MacArthur Airport on Long Island—has trained hundreds of Vaughn aircraft operations students as part of its Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-approved Part 141 training operation. Check out our blog to learn more about this partnership and how it benefits students: “Vaughn’s Long-standing Partnership with Heritage Flight Academy Gives Pilot Students an Edge.”
The future you
Today’s college students are zeroing in on more career-focused majors that will land them get jobs before the ink dries on their diplomas. Airlines need pilots—and that need will remain for many years to come. Could you be next? If becoming a pilot was ever on your radar, now is the time to act.
The demand for commercial drone pilots is soaring as industries are relying on drones—or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)—now more than ever before. According to Research and Markets, the demand for drone pilots is expected to grow by 51.1 percent over the next five years, with sales projected to reach over $16 billion by 2030. And that’s just from select markets. This brings up the question: Which industries are paying the highest salaries for these skilled aviators?
This month, Vaughn College explores this high-flying career as we showcase the top-paying drone pilot jobs and what it takes to put you behind the controls.
The career paths of drone pilots
Before we explore the top-paying jobs for drone pilots, it’s important to discuss some of the factors that can determine their salaries—such as how they choose to work and where. Drone pilots have the flexibility of choosing how they wish to work. Here are the possible paths and what they entail:
Self-employed drone operator—These experienced drone pilots operate their own businesses and have a strong understanding of the industry. Self-employed drone pilots possess a strong entrepreneurial drive and can adapt to uncertainty in the workplace. This path may offer the most flexibility—but it also comes with the greatest risk. These drone pilots are responsible for finding their own work, negotiating their own rates and obtaining necessary licenses and insurance for their businesses.
Freelance drone operator—The freelance path is popular with many drone pilots since they may work for different companies on a project-by-project basis. Many find freelancing a preferable option since they can set their own schedules and rates. They do, however, have to obtain their own licenses and insurance, as well as secure their own work.
Professional drone operators—Professional drone operators are typically hired as freelancers. To build their portfolios and expand their network, most will register on portals such as dronebase, io and precision hawk. The benefit of this practice is two-fold: It allows businesses to hire drone pilots who are local while helping freelancers find work according to their preferences.
Full-time drone operators—Those who are seeking consistent income may consider working as full-time drone operators. These UAV pilots typically work as part of a team.
According to the latest numbers from Glassdoor, the median total pay for a drone pilot in the United States is $85,159, with an average salary of $54,128. The additional estimated pay of $31,031 may include perks such as cash bonuses, commissions, tips and profit sharing. It’s important to note that salaries vary, depending on the industry and location. For example, drone pilots who work in mapping and surveying top the charts as the highest earners in comparison to those in film and video, which place last. And when it comes to location, drone pilots working in the West earn the most money in contrast to the South, which pays the least. So, that brings us to the UAV jobs that pay the most. Read on to learn which drone pilot jobs are paying over $100K a year.
UAV Jobs Paying Over $100K
Are you a drone pilot or UAV enthusiast looking to start an exciting, high-paying career? Some of today’s hottest industries are paying six-figure salaries for experienced drone pilots. Check them out!
Surveying and mapping engineer—Salary: $115,000
Graphic Information Systems (GIS) specialists are embracing drone surveying to conduct their topographic surveys. By using drones, they can reduce the time and expense of the surveys as well as the burden that’s placed on field professionals who use traditional methods. This industry advantage is putting these drone pilots—surveying and mapping engineers—in high demand.
Real estate photographer—Salary: $107,500
Today’s real estate market is hot. This means that real estate drone photographers are in high demand. Buyers love seeing aerial views of a property since it provides a birds-eye view of its appearance, proportions and surroundings. In fact, according to the multiple listing service (MLS), properties with drone photographs are up to 68 percent more likely to sell than those without.
UAV pilot instructor—Salary: $100,600
Drone pilot instructors teach those who want to improve their flying and operational skills through industry-leading training. They provide valuable insight on the theory and practice of unmanned flight as well as student mentorship and guidance.
Inspection and monitoring—Salary: $100,600
In this field, drones are used for the safe and efficient collection of data for pollution monitoring, powerline inspection, forest fire detection, railway track inspection and disaster monitoring, among other tasks. The UAVs used for these tasks resemble a helicopter that’s able to collect comprehensive data at low altitudes via equipment which is installed under the drone. The high level of detail and accuracy of ground inspection and monitoring make this a valuable and low-cost option, as well as being advantageous for drone pilots in this industry.
Search and rescue—Salary: $100,000
When time is of the essence, using drones in the capacity of search and rescue can be the difference between life and death. These drones provide real-time visual information and data in the aftermath of earthquakes, hurricanes and other natural disasters, as well as being used by firefighters, disaster response and rescue teams. And it’s also important to note that drones have been an invaluable tool for helping to locate missing and lost persons.
What it takes to command a high salary?
Does piloting drones sound like a career you’d like to pursue? The proper certification and training can set you on an exciting path to becoming a UAV pilot. But there are other factors that come into play when you compete for these high-paying jobs, which include:
Experience
Skill level
Industry
As you can see from the high-paying jobs we discussed, drone pilots can expect to not only earn a competitive salary but have well-paying job opportunities for years to come. In fact, some data reveals that approximately 100,000 new jobs could be created in the drone industry over the next 10 years. Will you be one of the industry’s next drone pilots?
How Vaughn can help get you there
Vaughn College is one of the select colleges in the country that offers classes in UAV technology, usage and drone law―all of which will help fully prepare you in every aspect of the field. We also have communities for like-minded UAV hobbyists, such as the UAV club, where students and faculty put their heads together to build, program and compete in top contests around the nation. And were you aware that Vaughn’s UAV Club has been instrumental in getting the word out in the past by hosting the highly anticipated festivities surrounding International Drone Day (IDD) and National Drone Safety Awareness Week?
While companies are investing billions of dollars to bring a true autonomous vehicle to the consumer market, today’s drivers are enjoying some cool self-driving technology that is available as either standard equipment or as options on newer cars. You may even be driving one now!
So, the question remains: Does a self-driving car really drive itself? The answer is a bit more complex than the question. Let’s just say that autonomous vehicles may in time give new meaning to the term “back seat driver.”
This month, we explore the latest advancements in self-driving cars and the autonomous features that experts predict will eventually shift autonomous vehicles into the fast lane.
Accelerating into the future
According to the Global Forecast report, the global self-driving car market is expected to grow to 62.4 million units by 2030—up from 20.3 million units in 2021. With revenue projected to reach nearly $326 billion by the end of 2030, the automotive industry is laser-focused on developing driver assistance systems that will pave the way for self-driving cars. Although, fully autonomous vehicles are still years away, some car makers have promised self-driving cars to be available to buy as early as 2024.
What is a self-driving car?
Autonomous vehicles, or self-driving cars, are driven by digital technology and use driverless assistance systems powered by artificial intelligence (AI). With the growing demand for safety as well as environmental factors, this technology is geared toward producing safer cars that can avoid the risk of accidents and help reduce energy consumption—not to mention insurance costs.
Why safety is driving the market
Consumers are all about putting safety first—especially when it comes to their cars. That’s why safety features continue to be a deciding factor when choosing a vehicle. And this safety concern applies not only to drivers in the U.S., but across the globe. The driver support technology of today is designed to help reduce the workload of anyone who operates a car. Were you aware, for instance, that driver error is the cause of over 94 percent of all vehicle accident deaths? To help assist drivers—and reduce the number of accidents—governments across the world have mandated that certain driver support systems be incorporated into cars. These mandated safety features include:
Lane departure warning (LDW)
Automatic emergency braking (AEB)
Other popular (but not mandatory) driver support features are:
Intelligent or adaptive cruise control
Hands-free capability
Levels of self-driving technology
In order to get a better understanding of where the industry stands on the self-driving car spectrum, the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) has broken everything down by sorting the technologies into six levels (from 0-to-5).
Levels 0 – 2: Driver support features
Level 0: Driver must be present to react to a warning or threat. For example, the car may be equipped with sensors, blind-spot alert system or lane-departure warning but has no self-driving capability.
Level 1: Driver support technology, such as a lane-keeping system, is considered Level 1 technology. This feature can slightly intervene to help steer the car to the center of a lane.
Level 2: Level 2 systems are the most sophisticated technology that’s currently sold on cars in the U.S. Although these cars allow drivers to take their hands briefly off the steering wheel, they must keep their eyes focused on the road at all times and be ready to take control of their vehicles immediately.
Levels 3 – 5: Autonomous capabilities
Level 3: A vehicle ranked at Level 3 can drive itself in a restricted scenario. The driver must be present and ready, however, to take over the controls when prompted.
Level 4: A vehicle with a Level 4 system can drive itself, but only under “perfect conditions,” such as a fixed loop on known roads. These vehicles may or may not have a steering wheel or pedals. Level 4 rideshare vehicles, such as Waymo’s (formerly Google’s self-driving car project), are in operation with limited use.
Level 5: A car at Level 5 will be able to drive itself on any road, in any conditions—and without any restrictions. To date, this car exists only in theory.
Are you revved up about self-driving cars? Pursuing an engineering degree at Vaughn College is a great start to find a career as an engineer in this exciting and futureproof industry. There are many engineering occupations related to the development of self-driving cars including:
Electrical engineer: works with anything involving electricity in the car
Mechanical engineer: works with vehicle mechanics and design
Robotics engineer: works on robots that power the car and integrated technologies
Validation engineer: works to test and validate the computing platforms
Sensor system engineer: works with sensor systems such as radar, lidar, GPS, sonar and cameras
Systems engineer: maintains wireless and aerospace satellite communication systems and cloud computing systems
Computer programmer: writes and tests computer programming code
Professionals in the self-driving car industry require strong mathematical, analytical and computer engineering skills and there’s great earning potential. Many companies around the world are actively working on autonomous vehicle technology such as Waymo, General Motors, Mercedes-Benz, Tesla, Ford, BMW and Toyota.
The race is on for the return of supersonic air travel. With the reality that supersonic jets could once again be “on the horizon,” aviation corporations and travel enthusiasts alike are gearing up for an exciting ride.
This month, we take a closer look at the latest developments in supersonic air travel and how soon it may be before you could be whisked away to your next destination.
History repeating itself
It’s been nearly 50 years since Concorde—the first supersonic commercial jetliner—began flying passengers across the Atlantic in 1976. Built by a joint venture between aviation manufacturers in Great Britain and France, the historic supersonic plane had a maximum speed that was over twice the speed of sound at Mach 2.04 (Mach 1 is the speed of sound), or 1,354 mph at cruising altitude. Concorde—which had seating up to 128 passengers—was retired in 2003, leaving travelers wondering if they would ever experience the thrill of supersonic flight again. Until now.
A supersonic future
Last month, Canadian jet company Bombardier introduced the Global 8000 private aircraft—the world’s fastest and longest-range purpose-built business jet that is also equipped with the industry’s healthiest cabin for safety and comfort. As a global leader in business aviation, Bombardier announced the Global 8000 aircraft as the only true four-zone cabin business jet to have a range of 8,000 nautical miles (9,206 miles) and a top speed of Mach 0.94—making it the fastest business jet in the skies. Eric Martel, president and chief executive officer at Bombardier stated: “The Global 8000 aircraft leverage the outstanding attributes of the Global 7500 aircraft, providing our customers with a flagship aircraft of a new era.” Last year, the Global 7500 broke through the sound barrier during a test flight when it reached a top speed of Mach 1.015, while accompanied by a NASA F/A chase plane. The Global 8000 aircraft is expected to enter service in 2025.
Commercial travelers will have to wait a few more years before flying the supersonic airways—but it will be worth it. Imagine flying from New York to London in less than four hours, or from San Francisco to Tokyo in six? Boom Supersonic, a Denver-based company, is designing the Overture—the world’s fastest commercial airliner that will cut travel time in half—for the price of a first-class ticket. Boom Supersonic is committed to designing Overture for the purpose of meeting industry-leading standards in speed, safety and sustainability. This historic airliner will be carbon-neutral, using 100 percent sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). And when it comes to speed, the Overture will break the sound barrier—and then some. With speeds expected to reach Mach 1.7, the Overture can accommodate up to 88 passengers and take them on a supersonic journey to explore more of the world via more than 500 transoceanic routes. Blake Scholl, founder and chief executive officer of Boom Supersonic stated: “We believe in a world where more people can go to more places, more often. Sustainable supersonic travel unlocks new possibilities for business relationships, prospects for vacation and opportunities for human connection.” Overture is expected to begin flying commercially by 2030.
Getting on board with supersonic
In June 2021, United Airlines became the first U.S. airline to enter into an aircraft purchase agreement with Boom Aviation when it ordered 15 supersonic planes with a goal of having them be able to carry passengers in 2029. Additionally, United Airlines agreed to an option to purchase up to 50 more supersonic jets—once the company has achieved successful production of a plane that can fly faster than the speed of sound. Mike Leskinen, vice president for corporate development at United Airlines stated: “At 60,000 feet with big windows, it’s going to be an amazing experience.”
Lowering the boom
Despite the excitement surrounding supersonic air travel, one of the biggest challenges manufacturers will face is reducing the sonic boom, which is the strong sound wave that is produced when an aircraft flies faster than the speed of sound. Today in the U.S and other countries, commercial supersonic flight is banned over land, although the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is working on changing that. In 2020, the agency established a designated corridor over Kansas where civilian supersonic aircraft could be tested. Sonic booms are not only loud and disruptive to civilians, but they are known to shatter windows and cause injuries. It is for these reasons that the Concorde was restricted to flying above oceans.
Who can fly a supersonic airliner?
Currently, there are no supersonic airliners approved to fly over the land. Any new aircraft would need to meet current airworthiness and noise certification requirements set forth by the FAA. That being said, training required of pilots to fly supersonic airliners is still being confirmed, however, military fighter pilots would likely be the most qualified to fly faster than the speed of sound.
Do you have a passion for flight? The ongoing pilot shortage is making this career one of the most sought-after in the industry. Vaughn College has degrees in aviation that can help you earn your wings for a futureproof career. Apply today!
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Described as an extremely accurate method of 3D scanning, Kilby shared how this technique assisted in extracting a fingerprint from a 3,000-year-old artifact.
LIDAR is a method of 3D scanning that measures distance through the use of beams of light. For years, it has been used in aviation, being placed under small aircrafts such as Cessnas and terrestrial LIDAR.