Not every graduate’s career dreams come true on the first shot. Here’s how Vaughn’s Career Services helped two alumni change jobs and get on track for successful new careers.
“It’s important that we let students know that a career is a journey that is not always linear,” said Chaundra Daniels, director of career services. “A career can pivot. It can zig and zag and lead you places you might not think you’d ever go. That’s why we want students and alumni to know that career services is here to support their career success through graduation and after—we don’t stop when they walk out the door. And I think that Nick and Katherine each found out that we mean it when we say that Vaughn graduates can come back to us and get help any time.”
Daniels is referring to Nick Singleman ’24, who received his associate degree in airport management, and Katherine Inamagua ’19, who received her bachelor’s degree in aeronautical sciences at Vaughn, both of whom are happy to share their stories about making a career pivot and how Daniels and the entire career services department helped them arrive at successful outcomes.
NICK’S STORY: LANDING IN THE WRONG PLACE
From Vaughn College to the FAA Academy: Nick Singleman’s Air Traffic Control Path
When Singleman qualified for air traffic control at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Academy in Oklahoma City in 2024 and was assigned to FAA air traffic control in Fairbanks, Alaska, he was excited about the opportunity to pursue the career he had set his sights on when he enrolled at Vaughn College. Growing up on Long Island, his mother employed at Lufthansa, Singleman learned about the Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) from his aunt and had decided that Vaughn’s program, combined with an associate degree in airport management, was the best path to take. During his student years, he enjoyed two airport management internships with Avports at Republic Airport in Farmingdale, became president of the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) and graduated from Vaughn magna cum laude.
Why an Alaska Air Traffic Control Assignment Didn’t Work Out
When he arrived in Fairbanks and started his training, Singleman began to question his choices. “I knew ahead of time that I didn’t have any support network up there, and the controllers I knew all said that was important,” he said. “But I thought I’d get my training and be able to move on. Once I got there, I found out that there wasn’t a path out any time soon. I didn’t know anyone, I felt very isolated and I missed my being close to my family. I realized that I wasn’t prepared or willing to make my life in Alaska.”
How Vaughn’s Career Services Team Reconnects with Alumni
Singleman decided to leave Fairbanks and return to New York. He immediately started networking and looking for a job, wanting to stay in aviation but unsure where and how. It was during this difficult time that career services reached out to him and learned about his situation. Daniels explained: “We do outcome surveys every year to see how our graduates are doing and to confirm our job placement numbers. And we don’t just send a form. We follow up with a phone call because we are relational, not transactional, with our students and graduates and that’s how we find out about students who have moved or want to move to another job, like Nick. We know it takes courage to leave a job, especially a desirable one. And we ask, ‘how can we help you, where do you want to go?'”
With the counseling of the career services team, including Mavis Hall and Erik Zupance, Singleman honed in on his job goal to stay in the aviation industry and use his management skills and updated his resume. “Career services helped me clean up my resume and put together a cover letter,” said Singleman, “and they are a great set of eyes on job opportunities in the industry.”
Landing an Airport Operations Coordinator Role Back Home in New York
Soon, a job came through from one of Vaughn’s employer partners and was sent along to Singleman, who had learned about the same opening from a family connection. As luck would have it, the job was with Avports at Republic Airport, where Singleman had had great internship experiences. Singleman was quickly hired to be operations coordinator and is thrilled with his new position and being close to his home and family. “I love working in the airport, and I’m glad I get to use what I learned in classes, including management classes. It’s great having diverse job responsibilities because that opens the door to different options down the road.”
KATHERINE’S STORY: HITTING A ROUGH PATCH AFTER A SMOOTH RIDE
Katherine Inamagua’s Rise from Student to Air Traffic Control Professional
Inamagua’s aviation career had always followed an upward trajectory. As a high school student, she had watched airplanes flying overhead near her home and decided she wanted to be a pilot. By the following fall, she was attending Vaughn College, where she excelled and was advised by a professor that she would be a good fit for air traffic control (ATC). “I researched air traffic and changed my degree to aeronautical sciences with a minor in air traffic control,” said Inamagua. “My professor, Professor Walcott, is still a mentor and put that curiosity in my mind, and I have loved air traffic control ever since.”
Inamagua made the most of her years at Vaughn, during which time she received her associate degree in aircraft operations in 2017 and her bachelor’s degree in aeronautical sciences in 2019 while working at LaGuardia Airport as a tower agent and being very active in various clubs on campus. “I was active in everything,” said Inamagua. “Women in Aviation International, Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers and as president of the student chapter of the Air Traffic Control Organization.” She was interning for the Port Authority during the initial construction phase of the brand-new LaGuardia Airport and was invited by President Sharon DeVivo to attend the groundbreaking. “It was super cool and exciting to be part of that at such a young age,” recalled Inamagua.
From Delta Air Lines to the FAA New York TRACON: Building an Aviation Career
A job opening published by career services helped Inamagua land her first job with Delta Air Lines at LaGuardia’s Airport Command Tower, a job she held for a year before going to work as a contractor for the FAA New York TRACON. As a remote pilot operator, her initial responsibilities included assisting in training ATCs. “After three years of training ATCs, we were selected by the FAA to travel the country and integrate Datacomm technology into our national air space (NAS), a great project to be part of,” she said, referring to the introduction of a new technology designed to enhance pilot communications across the contiguous United States.
A Setback at the FAA Air Traffic Control Trainee Program in Oklahoma City
Then, in 2024, she was selected by the FAA to go to the air traffic control trainee program in Oklahoma City. There, as Inamagua put it, “Things didn’t go quite as planned.” Inamagua made it to the end of the training program, only to be mathematically disqualified in her last test. “I realized I couldn’t continue and I had put all of my eggs in one basket. Now what do I do?”
Rebuilding Confidence with Help from Vaughn College Career Services
What she did, with some urging from a friend, was to reach out to DeVivo, who connected her with Daniels. “I told Chaundra everything about how bad I felt,” said Inamagua, “and she looked at my resume and said, ‘Are you kidding? You have a great resume!’ She helped me so much mentally, I don’t think she even realizes how much that conversation changed my life and helped me rebuild my confidence.”
Career services worked with Inamagua to revise her resume to reflect a new path and sharpen her search skills on LinkedIn. They worked with her on interview prep and an elevator pitch. Most important, they helped her believe in herself. “I have never forgotten what Chaundra said to me,” said Inamagua. “When you walk into that room, you have to believe you deserve to be there. I took that to heart, got out of my funk and focused on the job opportunity I really, really wanted. I had the interview on a Friday and was hired on Monday. And I absolutely love my job.”
A New Role as Air Traffic Strategy Specialist at United Airlines, Newark Airport
Inamagua is now an air traffic strategy specialist for United Airlines at Newark International Airport supporting an operation of 365 daily flights. Her responsibilities include managing aircraft operations in both movement and non-movement areas, ensuring efficient traffic control on active runways and coordinating with the FAA to establish taxiways and runway configurations. The intensity of this busy hub suits Inamagua just fine. “In the Northeast, we have a lot of weather, and I love the complexity and the pressure and the way you get to see the teamwork and decision-making, and how everyone works together to get the flights out.”
“There are a lot of people who have been in my situation and don’t know what to do and just leave aviation. For me, this is what I know and love. I’m so happy to have found an alternate path and still get to do what I love—talk to planes. And I get flight benefits! I never want to leave United. When I think about it, career services helped me get my first job, and now they helped me get what I want to be my last job.”
Paying It Forward: Staying Connected to Vaughn Alumni
Inamagua has stayed in touch with Daniels, keeping her posted on job openings and working to strengthen the partnership between United Airlines and Vaughn. She also spoke to students at a career services class to share her experiences with the next generation. “In the years since I graduated, there’s been COVID and shutdowns, but I want the students to know that there’s always going to be setbacks, and you have to push through and you can make it.
“I see their spark, and I hope to keep mine forever.”
“It takes courage to say this is not what I want. Especially when it’s a very desirable job.”
On a Vaughn campus tour, this Navy veteran made a stop in the Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle (UAV) room that changed his trajectory and set him on a path to the space industry.
From Navy Aviation Technician to Vaughn College Engineering Student
Ryan Kurkela ’26 always liked building things and being hands-on, but it wasn’t until he decided to follow the family tradition of military service by joining the Navy that he discovered his interest in aviation while working as an aviation support technician. Still, when he returned to civilian life, he was hesitant about college and unclear on the career path he wanted to pursue. He decided to try a semester at Suffolk Community College, where he spoke to a guidance counselor about his desire to design and build, and learned about Vaughn College for the first time.
“I read about Vaughn, came for a tour and I lucked out and met Dr. Rahemi,” said Kurkela. “He took me into the UAV room, and I was introduced to the club president and I decided right then I had to join this club. I had zero knowledge of drones, but I knew that this is where I could get the skills to design, assemble, manufacture and build.” In 2022, Kurkela started at Vaughn in mechanical engineering and immediately joined the UAV club.
Leading Vaughn’s UAV Club and Competing in National Aerospace Design Competitions
Fast-forward a year and Kurkela was all in on drones and getting exactly the kind of hands-on experience he wanted through the UAV club and the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) branch. As a sophomore, he was UAV team lead on a ground station project, which was entered and presented in the Design Build Vertical Flight Competition of the Vertical Flight Society (VFS), and the following year he was captain and lead designer on an AIAA competition drone—designing the fuselage structure and conducting structural analyses and simulations. The student who had known so little about drones just a few years earlier was elected president of the UAV club and AIAA branch chair, serving from February 2023 through the end of his junior year in 2025. He also joined the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers in his sophomore year and became vice president in May of 2025.
Speaking about his experiences in the clubs and the competitions, Kurkela was enthusiastic about their importance and the opportunities they offer. “Vaughn is one of the rare schools that really encourages and helps students go to conferences and competitions. In my junior year when I was president of the UAV club, we built an AIAA competition drone and the Student Experience Fund supported our whole team to go to Arizona. It was our first year being accepted to compete—and we were all so excited. It was an amazing networking opportunity with engineers from around the world, and we were so thankful and happy to represent Vaughn.”
How a Vaughn Alumnus Led Him to the NASA L’Space Academy Program
“And the competitions and conferences are just one of the ways to network in the clubs,” he continued. “A lot of alumni like to stop in and see what’s happening and they really like to help the students. In fact, that was how I learned about the NASA Summer Academy—from an alum who had done it. And that changed my life.”
Kurkela applied and was accepted into the NASA L’Space Proposal Writing and Evaluation Experience (NPWEE) Academy Program for the summer of his sophomore year and had the opportunity to collaborate with 10 students to develop proposals for future NASA projects, utilizing Siemens NX software for design solutions. “Working with students from all around the country to come up with an idea to help benefit NASA missions to the moon, to Mars, for space travel,” he said, “doing that program is where my aerospace passion came from.”
Lockheed Martin Internship: Designing Mechanical Components for Aerospace Applications
He was able to pursue his newfound passion the following summer, when he secured an internship at Lockheed Martin in Huntsville, Alabama, in its space program. There he got to design mechanical components in Creo Parametric software, creating 3D models and assemblies for aerospace applications. While in Huntsville, he went to the space center and saw the Saturn V. “It’s one of the biggest rockets in history and it gave me such goosebumps. I knew in my heart I wanted to go into aerospace because it kind of defies the laws of gravity, being able to go up there. And I see my dream job in the space industry. I’m seeing the advances in space technology and how private companies are working with NASA and pushing for space exploration.”
After Graduation: Mechanical Engineer Role at Raytheon Technologies in Arizona
Asked about the job he’s accepted when he graduates this spring, Kurkela said, “I’ll be going out to Arizona when I graduate to be a mechanical engineer at Raytheon Technologies, which I’m very excited for and grateful that I’m advancing on the career path I’ve chosen. And I’m grateful to Vaughn for preparing me for my engineering future.”
We are proud to highlight the hard work, dedication and amazing accomplishments of these Vaughn students and alumni.
Carla Figuereo ’27
Bachelor of Science, Mechatronic Engineering NASA L’Space Mission Concept Academy
Last summer, I had the opportunity to complete the NASA L’Space Mission Concept Academy, and I’m thrilled to share that I’ve been accepted into this summer’s Proposal Writing and Evaluation Experience Academy!
The NASA L’Space program is a highly regarded technical writing and professional development experience designed for undergraduate and graduate students. It focuses on developing the skills needed to write mission concepts and scientific proposals aligned with NASA’s astronautical standards.
This summer, I’m especially excited to deepen my technical writing skills and further prepare myself to be career-ready. While this program is not an internship, it offers something equally valuable — hands-on experience in proposal development. In industry, engineering teams must develop and present preliminary concept reviews in order to secure contracts across companies, agencies and government entities. Gaining exposure to this process is an incredible asset to my growth as an aspiring engineer.
Working alongside aspiring and current NASA engineers has already been an enriching part of my undergraduate experience, and I’m excited to continue building these skills and connections.
Looking forward to what this summer will bring!
Andres Vivas ’25
Associate of Occupational Studies, Airframe and Powerplant Technology Aircraft on Ground (AOG) Controller, JetBlue
We’re proud to highlight Andres Vivas on his recent career success.
Andres secured a position with JetBlue as an AOG controller, marking an exciting milestone as he transitions into the aviation industry. An important part of his journey included leveraging his network and professional relationships.
“I’m over the moon about my progress and truly grateful for the support I received. Having someone believe in my potential made a real difference—and now I’m excited for my employer to see that potential as well.” —Andres Vivas ’25
Andres’s story reflects the power of preparation, persistence and meaningful mentorship. His success highlights how strong relationships and career readiness skills can open doors to exciting opportunities.
Congratulations, Andres — we look forward to seeing your continued success in the aviation industry!
Joshua Rampioray ’27
Bachelor of Science, Aeronautical Sciences
My time at Vaughn College has been a mix of learning, growth and a lot of unexpected opportunities that really helped shape where I’m headed in my aviation career. Being part of Vaughn has connected me to a community that genuinely pushes students forward and gives us access to experiences we might not get anywhere else.
One of the biggest parts of my journey has been how much support the college gives when it comes to preparing for the real world. The resume workshops through career services helped me clean up and strengthen my resume in a way that actually made me feel more confident applying for jobs. That preparation paid off at career fairs, where I was able to connect with industry professionals and eventually receive a job offer that I’m really excited about. Networking events at Vaughn have also played a huge role in my development. Over the years, I’ve been able to meet and talk with people from companies like Atlas Air, JetBlue and Republic Airways. Hearing their experiences and getting advice from them made the aviation industry feel a lot more real and accessible. Events like these also helped me come out of my shell more and become better at holding professional conversations without overthinking it.
Being involved in student organizations made things even more impactful. Joining Women in Aviation International student chapter gave me the chance to take a tour of the Million Air fixed base operation at Westchester Airport, which was honestly an eye-opening experience. I also got to network there and speak with an air traffic controller and Vaughn alumna Sadia Harun ‘22, who shared really helpful insight about the field and what it’s like working in it. Another big turning point for me was joining the uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) club. Through that, I ended up discovering the Drone Cadets program which strives to make drone technology accessible, particularly to under-represented communities. Once they learned I was part of Vaughn and involved in UAV, I got the opportunity to interview and eventually work teaching kids drone soccer, flight basics and helping them prepare for their Part 107 exam. It’s been really rewarding being able to teach while also staying involved in aviation.
The air traffic control simulation instructors at Vaughn also made a big difference for me. When I mentioned I was interested in pursuing a remote pilot operator position, they gave me advice and guidance that helped me understand the path a lot more clearly and what I need to focus on next.
On top of all that, being part of The Wings Club activities helped me meet and talk with successful professionals who gave real-world advice on careers and moving forward in aviation. Those conversations helped me think bigger about my goals and how to actually get there.
Looking back, Vaughn hasn’t just been school for me — it’s been a place where I’ve built confidence, made connections and found real opportunities that are already shaping my career path. I’m grateful for everything I’ve experienced so far, and I’m excited to see what comes next.
Samuel Geroka ’26
Bachelor of Science, Aeronautical Sciences Evolved Aerospace, Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Test Operator
Samuel Geroka recently achieved a major milestone in his career journey, securing back-to-back interviews with Zipline and Evolved Aerospace—and succeeding in both.
Each experience offered a unique perspective on the industry. His interview with Zipline was fast-paced and highly technical, featuring problem-solving scenarios under time pressure. One challenge required him to evaluate a drone capture system issue—balancing safety, timing and operational efficiency—demonstrating both technical knowledge and composure under pressure.
In contrast, his interview with Evolved Aerospace was more conversational and transparent. The discussion emphasized company culture, collaboration and long-term growth, offering insight into a workplace focused on autonomy and employee development.
After careful consideration, Geroka chose to move forward with Evolved Aerospace as a UAV test operator, citing strong alignment with the company’s environment, communication style and values. He has since completed a second successful interview and is advancing to the next stages of the hiring process, including a technical interview and compensation discussions.
“This experience helped me see how different companies operate and what environment I can truly grow in—not just technically, but professionally.” —Samuel Geroka ’26
Geroka credits his success to the preparation, persistence and support he received from career services throughout the process.
Did you know that in just one year, you could be “job ready” for a high-paying, in-demand position as a programmable logic controller (PLC) and robotic automation technician? With average annual salaries exceeding $74K, this is one career opportunity you won’t want to pass up if you have a passion for problem solving and figuring out how to make things work. With PLC and robotic automation spring classes starting at Vaughn College in January 13, 2025, now has never been a better time to lock in your career plans and join this growing field.
What is a PLC and robotic automation technician?
Programmable logic controllers and robotic automation technicians are skilled professionals who specialize in programming, maintaining and troubleshooting industrial automation systems. This career is essential to modern manufacturing and industrial environments, which makes it a lucrative career for those with expertise in PLCs and robotic automation. For example, at Amazon, PLCs are used to control the actions of warehouse robots which track inventory, identify items packaging and optimize storage space. These functions are vital to the overall process flow of Amazon fulfillment centers. PLCs can control anything from a simple conveyer belt to complex robotic arm movements in production lines.
Growing demand
The demand for technicians in the field of robotic process automation is currently high and expected to continue growing steadily as more industries adopt automation technologies to improve efficiency, reduce costs and enhance product quality. There is currently a gap in the workforce for these positions, so the need for skilled technicians is high, which is where Vaughn’s PLC and robotic automation certificate program comes in. Graduates of the program will be eligible for jobs at companies such as Amazon, American Airlines, Con Edison, GE Healthcare and Cox & Company, among many others. Automation is currently being used in manufacturing, transportation and healthcare, but is increasing across many new sectors including pharmaceuticals, food and beverage production and power distribution.
Fast-track your career in just two semesters
At Vaughn College, our comprehensive 13-credit (two-semester) PLC and robotic automation certificate program can fast-track your path to becoming a robotic automation technician. You will gain essential skills and hands-on experience that will enable you to step into a high-paying job immediately after completing the program. Technicians can progress into more advanced, higher-paying roles like integrators or automation engineers with further experience. Learn more about the program in episode 17 of our podcast featuring Doug Jahnke, assistant professor of engineering and technology.
Here is what you will learn during Vaughn’s program:
How to design, operate and troubleshoot robotic systems and automated machinery.
Gain expertise in Siemens and Allen-Bradley PLCs.
Build a foundation in electrical circuits, industrial machinery and networking.
Stepping stone to a mechatronic engineering degree
While the PLC certification program will prepare you for immediate employment, should you choose to continue your education and expand your career choices in engineering, all credits earned are transferable toward a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechatronic Engineering at Vaughn College.
Other engineering certificates to fuel your future
Earning additional certificates in engineering and technology will not only add value to your skillset but will also boost your résumé and earning potential. Vaughn offers several certificate programs
It’s time to take the first step toward a brighter future and make 2025 your year to shine. In just two semesters, you can become job-ready to earn over $74K a year working in the fastest growing field of automation and robotics. Apply today!
Vaughn College celebrates Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month with the story of a first-generation Pakistani college student, Malik Khuram ’25, who came to New York at the age of 10 and discovered his passion for aviation and engineering at a young age. Now as a junior mechanical engineering student at Vaughn, Khuram is pursuing his dream in the industry—making his mark at Vaughn while getting hands-on work experience at Con Edison East River Generating Station located on 14th Street in Manhattan.
His Passion for Engineering Led Him to Vaughn
“I grew up in Pakistan and moved to New York with my family when I was 10 years old,” Khuram said. “I attended the Aviation Career and Technical Education High School—also known as Aviation High School—in Sunnyside, Queens. It was there that my future career path took flight.” As an institution that prepares students for careers in the aerospace industry, Aviation High School also partners with Vaughn to recruit high-achieving students who wish to pursue careers in the engineering and aviation industries. Little did Khuram know that he would be one of those fortunate students that Vaughn selects each year to receive the one full scholarship that is awarded each year. “I worked very hard throughout high school to maintain a competitive grade point average,” he explained. “Vaughn was always on my radar as a college I wanted to attend. I was shocked when the vice president of the school and my guidance counselor told me that I had been selected to receive that year’s scholarship to Vaughn!”
Khuram solidified his decision to attend Vaughn during an Open House event. “The low student-to-professor ratio and impressive curriculum really excited me. But most of all, I was grateful for the full-ride scholarship to attend such an amazing college.”
Support from CSTEP
In addition to his full scholarship, Khuram is also part of the Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP), which provides him with additional funds for books, software and travel to internships. “I wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for the financial support I receive from Vaughn,” Khuram said humbly. “They have eliminated that burden which is giving me the opportunity to focus on earning my degree and planning my future.”
Engagement Beyond Academics
Khuram emphasized the well-rounded student experience at Vaughn which has enabled him to apply his mechanical engineering skills to real-life scenarios, actively participating in the robotics club serving as the current president of the NASA Rover Club. “Last year was an exciting time for our team. We attended the Human Exploration Rover Challenge in Huntsville, Alabama where we competed against students from around the world. It was a great all-around experience.”
Khuram said he also enjoys being a member of Vaughn’s student chapter of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE). “Being part of a larger organization made up of individuals who share your heritage and interest in engineering is empowering,” he stated. “It’s great to know that I belong to a community that recognizes and supports my potential and impact in the industry.”
Internship and Co-Op at Con Edison
Ambition, hard work and persistence make up the foundation on which Khuram is achieving his life goals. He explained how Chaundra Daniels, director of career services at Vaughn, was instrumental in helping him land his internship at Con Edison. “She sent me an email about the internship, and then helped me apply and prepare for my interview. I was accepted as a summer intern and I knew the opportunity would be the gateway to something bigger for me.”
At the end of the summer internship, Con Edison offered Khuram a co-op position with the company. “It’s a little challenging—balancing college and work—but it’s all worth it,” he said. “I’m taking 18 credits this semester and working 18-20 hours each week. The best part is how Con Edison gives me the flexibility I need to be successful both in my studies and at my job.”
Industry Experience
Khuram said he loves working at Con Edison. “I work at the steam plant in Manhattan that controls the hot water and electricity for various parts of the city. It’s a massive plant that occupies three city blocks,” he explained. He said he assists with scheduling the work in the office and also shadows the engineers when they work out in the field. “I have the opportunity to interact with so many people in different areas. In my co-op position, I’m able to ask questions, experience different roles and figure out what I like best. I learn something new every day and love the relationship I’ve built with the management team.”
When asked why he believes engineering is one of today’s most in-demand fields, Khuram replied: “Technology is everywhere and changing constantly. We need engineers for every sector. They look for ways to make things work better, which in turn, will make our lives better.”
Advice to Students
For anyone interested in becoming an engineer, Khuram said it’s important to remember that you have options: “Not every engineer works in the field. Some work at a desk. The key elements come down to three things: problem solving, persistence and patience.”
At 23 years old, Khuram looks to the future with hope and positivity. “I would love to be offered a permanent position with Con Edison after graduation. I love the work I do there. My plan is to apply for an associate engineer position where I could make up to $75K to start. The rest is up to fate.”
If you share Khuram’s passion for engineering, explore the possibilities with a futureproof degree in engineering, technology, management, or aviation. Apply to Vaughn College today!
Looking for the perfect holiday gift ideas for the engineers and tech lovers in your life? We’ve done the shopping for you. Vaughn College is excited to share gift ideas this holiday season. Get ready to “sleigh” the holidays with these awesome gift ideas!
Flashlight gloves
Anyone who works with their hands will love having light at their fingertips—when and where they need it. These cleverly engineered flashlight gloves have LED lights on the index finger and thumb, which makes working in dark spaces an illuminating experience. Plus, they’re made to be ambidextrous, so there’s no fumbling when time is of the essence. Talk about shedding light on the subject!
Robotic arm
You don’t have to be an mechanical engineer to love this gift. In fact, any robotics or tech enthusiast will be thrilled to build this cool robotic arm. The kit includes everything needed to get started. Check it out:
The control system of the mechanical arm shown here is equipped with:
Bluetooth
16M memory
Operates via a DC port
Once built, here’s what it can do:
Grab and hold up to 55 pounds
Save 1,020 different actions
Can be programmed using PC software, mobile applications and offline
Smart weather station
Be a meteorologist in your own backyard! This innovative smart weather station allows you to monitor the weather conditions at your home and backyard at a glance using a bright, LCD color display. You can keep up with the current temperature, humidity, rainfall, wind speeds and so much more via the wireless all-in-one integrated sensor. This makes a great gift for anyone who loves meteorology—or just likes talking about the weather.
Magnetic levitating globe
How does it do that? This magnetic levitating globe is one of the coolest gifts to give this holiday season. Powered by electricity, the globe levitates by use of powerful magnets on the top and bottom of the unit. It’s the perfect gift for the students, engineers, scientists and curiosity-seekers in your life.
Aviator smartwatch
The latest aviator smartwatches have amazing features that the pilot in your life will be sure to appreciate. These watches have touchscreen displays with GPS/moving map, weather/radar reports, call/text and animated workouts. It also can be paired to an app to transfer flight plans. With so many different variations of this type of watch, there’s definitely one for your pilot!
From all of us at Vaughn College, we wish you a safe and happy holiday season!
Until a few years ago, most of us took it for granted that our everyday goods would be on the shelves when we needed them. The COVID-19 pandemic changed that. Today, companies increasingly recognize the critical role that supply chains play in our everyday lives. This has created a high demand for supply chain professionals across all industries.
In response to a growing need to provide employment-ready students for the workplace, Vaughn College has developed a certificate program in Supply Chain Management (SCM) that has been approved by the New York State Department of Education (NYSED).
Peter Canellis, PhD, PE, associate professor in the management department at Vaughn, shared the wide range of benefits the program offers to individuals who are seeking either careers or advancement in the field.
What is “Supply Chain Management”?
From a global perspective, supply chain management relates to the flow of goods and services—from beginning with raw materials to delivering a final product. Supply chain management careers encompass diverse opportunities and various paths which allow individuals to seek out their own niche, based on their interests and skills.
Canellis explained that the main driver for supply chain talent is the demand for goods and services that has exploded on a global basis due to an increasing number of the world’s population that is entering the middle class. Some of the opportunities one can pursue include sourcing and procurement, logistics, inventory management, demand forecasting and purchasing. Hiring companies may include manufacturers, airlines and ocean-going freight carriers, trucking companies, railroads, freight forwarders, terminal operators and government agencies.
What are the benefits of pursuing a certificate degree in SCM?
Pursuing a certificate in SCM can be highly rewarding—and profitable. This is an intriguing field where interested individuals will learn how the worldwide economy works—and then some.
Here are the top reasons for pursuing a career in supply chain management:
High demand—Supply chain management is required by every company that either makes products for business or consumer use, provides intermediate inputs to those products, or supports their distribution. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment in this field to grow 18 percent over the next decade, which is much faster than average for all other occupations. This high demand is creating a pathway of opportunity to help companies reduce costs, improve customer satisfaction and enhance competitiveness.
Cargo growth is expected to more than double over the next 20 years and a greater proportion of the world’s total output will shift to cargo-related activities.
Job security—Even during economic downturns, companies—both foreign and domestic—still need to manage their supply chains in this global economy.
Career advancement—Continuous learning opportunities that will enhance skills and increase career potential.
Financial rewards—Individuals working in SCM command competitive salaries. Those who have experience and specialized skills can earn higher salaries and bonuses.
Vaughn’s Supply Chain Management certificate details and outlook:
A comprehensive, hands-on curriculum in supply chain operations.
A four-course series that runs for five weeks and is structured for possible completion within six months (three credits per course, totaling 12 credits).
Every course can be applied toward attainment of a bachelor’s degree.
‘Badging’ on students’ transcripts is a unique benefit that provides eligible students with a ‘badge’ on their transcript as early recognition and documentation of their achievements when seeking employment.
A guaranteed informational employment interview with one of Vaughn partners is available after successful completion of the first two courses—with a grade of “C” or better.
As technology advances at a record pace, the demand for computer science professionals is skyrocketing. If you’re looking for a high-paying, in-demand career, earning a degree in computer science may just be the best investment you can make for your future. Do you know what’s even better? The path to this futureproof career is closer than you think.
Vaughn College has recently added a bachelor of science degree in computer science. This latest addition to the College’s impressive array of engineering degree programs is designed to ensure that graduates will possess the necessary knowledge and skills to be valuable assets in the computer science industry.
Dr. Miguel Bustamante assistant professor of engineering and technology at Vaughn, weighed in on the value of earning a bachelor’s degree in computer science. “The unprecedented demand for graduates in the fields of computer science and information technology makes Vaughn’s computer science degree one of the most valuable investments for a student’s future,” said Bustamante.
What does Vaughn’s computer science degree offer?
The computer science degree at Vaughn focuses on hands-on experience and internships to ensure students not only understand the theory of the field but can also apply it to real-world situations that happen in the field every day. This comprehensive curriculum encompasses all aspects of computer science so students graduate feeling confident and ready to start their careers.
Students will:
Master the fundamentals of programming
Gain expertise in computer algorithms
Develop networking and system security skills
Tackle complex challenges and design systems to meet specific criteria, based on mastering a solid foundation in mathematics and design systems
Explore advanced topics such as data science and artificial intelligence (AI)
What industries are hiring computer science professionals?
Computer science professionals are needed in almost every facet of industry—from healthcare, automotive and real estate—to develop software and hardware, design computer systems and manage databases that are secure in the face of increasingly advanced hackers.
Here are some of the careers you can pursue with a computer science degree:
Software developer
Computer systems engineer
Computer hardware engineer
Data warehousing specialist
Database administrator
Systems analyst
Game developer
Web developer
Robust demand for computer science professionals over the next decade—and beyond
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, careers that are related to computer and information technology are projected to grow at a faster rate than all other occupations over the next decade. In fact, data revealed that about 377,500 job openings are projected each year. In 2021, for example, there were fewer than 160,000 computer science graduates to fill the almost 568,000 job openings. The 2022 median annual wage for computer network architects with a bachelor’s degree was $126,900. The 2022 median annual wage for database administrators with a bachelor’s degree was $112,120.
With the growth, demand and range of opportunities, a bachelor’s degree in computer science is well worth the time and investment.
What it takes to earn a computer science degree and why it’s worth it
A computer science degree involves a challenging curriculum that demands technical knowledge and strong mathematical skills, however, you don’t have to be a math genius to pursue a degree in the field. Vaughn provides assistance through the academic success center to help with tutoring or other degree-related needs. There’s also a strong emphasis on theory and concepts, so abstract thinkers also do well. With a low student/faculty ratio of 14:1 which is often lower in some engineering courses, Vaughn professors are available to help you master any challenging concepts.
Investing in your future is money well spent. According to EducationData.org, bachelor’s degrees in computer and information sciences have a lifetime return on investment (ROI) of 71 percent. Now that’s spending your money wisely! Plus, the computer engineering industry is only projected to grow over time, so it truly is a futureproof career path.
Sometimes the path you’re on may be leading you in the wrong direction. This was the realization for Vaughn graduate Antonio Florio ’19 when, at the age of 25, he switched gears from a career in economics and decided to pursue his passion for aviation and become an air traffic controller. Now, at 29, he’s training for his future at New York Air Route Traffic Control Center (ZNY) on Long Island. Read on to learn how a conversation with his uncle sparked his ambition to go back to college and follow his lifelong dream of being an eye in the sky.
Keeping an eye on the sky
Growing up in Rockland County, New York, Florio always had his eyes on the sky. He remembers how going to the airport was one of his favorite things to do as a child. “From as far back as I can remember, I would always have my head out of the car window, looking up at the planes as we drove to the airport—or anywhere for that matter,” Florio said laughingly. “Airplanes always fascinated me.”
Finding his way
After graduating from high school, Florio attended the State University of New York at Oneonta, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in economics in 2015. For the next three years, he worked in this field but eventually realized the economics industry was not for him. “I was bored at my job,” he said. “I wasn’t happy going to work every day. I knew I had to make a change.” Then, one day he had a conversation with his uncle, who happened to be a pilot. “My uncle saw how unhappy I was at my job and suggested I pursue a career in aviation like him,” Florio explained. “I knew I didn’t want to be a pilot, but my uncle suggested becoming an air traffic controller. The rest is history.” Florio left his job and took some time off to travel and contemplate his next move. Knowing he had his sights set on becoming an air traffic controller, the next decision was where to earn his degree.
Choosing Vaughn
Being a native New Yorker, Florio was familiar with Vaughn College and knew that was where he was destined to turn his passion into a career. As one of only 30 colleges in the country to offer the Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI), Florio was certain that Vaughn would be the best place to prepare him for a career as an air traffic controller.
“I attended a campus tour and was instantly excited about attending the College,” Florio explained. “Once I saw the control tower on campus, I was hooked!” In September 2018, he enrolled in Vaughn’s Airport Management degree program. Since Florio already had one bachelor’s degree under his belt, he was able to complete the program in one year and he graduated with his second bachelor’s degree in May 2019. “The instructors at Vaughn were instrumental in my aspirations to become an air traffic controller,” Florio said. “Their firsthand industry knowledge and sincere interest in my success was paramount during my time there.”
Applying for training
After graduating from Vaughn, Florio went through the rigorous process of applying for the air traffic controller program. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), applicants must meet minimum requirements before being selected to attend the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City. Florio said the process—which he describes as “intense”—took about four months to complete. In April 2020, he received notice that he’d met all the requirements and passed all the mandatory testing and evaluations. “I believe having the AT-CTI certification gave me a strong foundation of knowledge to be successful at the FAA academy,” he said. “The pool of applicants was considerable.” Florio was now one step closer to his dream. And then the COVID-19 pandemic hit. This was a major setback for Florio, but he didn’t let it hold him back. He took a job at Westchester County Airport, where he worked in the operations department to fill the time while waiting to begin his training. “Working at the airport was a great learning experience,” he said. “I gained valuable knowledge outside of the classroom that was instrumental in my career.”
Back on track
In November 2021, Florio began his training at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City, where he remained for four months. “Training at the academy was an amazing experience,” he said. “The competition was steep, but it makes you want to work harder.” Of the eight candidates in his class, Florio was one of the four who passed the FAA training. With this milestone behind him, he was given a list of available positions across the country. “I was chosen to work in En Route Operations, which are facilities that own and operate airspace around 18,000 -to-60,000 feet,” he explained. Florio accepted the position at the New York Air Route Traffic Control Center (ZNY) on Long Island located in Ronkonkoma, where he has been training for the past three months. “New York is home for me,” he said. “My fiancé and our families live here as well. I feel like I hit the lottery with this job.”
Florio explained how there is a backlog of trainees at the facility due to the COVID-19 lockdown. “I’m hoping to complete my training and become a certified professional controller within the next few years.” In the meantime, he is training on material that is specific to New York: The study of maps of the airspace in upstate New York and Pennsylvania, the airports in that airspace and military rules, among other topics.
When asked about his decision to switch careers, Florio replied: “Don’t be afraid to make a move in a different direction. You never know how it will turn out until you try, so never settle to play it safe. You have to be happy going to a job every day. It’s never too late to make that happen.”
In-demand career
The ongoing shortage of aviation employees—which include pilots, crew members and air traffic controllers—continues to cripple the industry. If you’re looking for a high-paying career with great benefits and a flexible schedule, becoming an air traffic controller may be the perfect job for you. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual median salary for air traffic controllers in 2021 was $129,750. Were you also aware that the mandatory retirement age for air traffic controllers is 56 at which point they receive a pension (50% of average pay) after working for 20 years? For this reason, aviation enthusiasts who are interested in this field are encouraged to begin the process early.
Do you have your sights on becoming an air traffic controller? Vaughn can get you there—and in less time than you think. Apply today!
For more than 70 years, Mental Health Awareness Month has been recognized during the month of May. The purpose is to raise awareness for how mental health is essential to overall health. With nearly one-in-five Americans living with a mental health condition according to the National Institute of Mental Health, the reality is that someone you know—or even yourself—could be struggling. The good news is one of the best ways to celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month is to talk about it.
Vaughn College is starting the conversation by exploring some of the mental health conditions students are facing today, as well as the ways to overcome them. But first, let’s start with the basics.
What is mental health?
It’s not always about what you can see, but what you can’t see. Unlike physical health—which is mostly visible on the outside—mental health is an inner process that involves how we think, feel and process situations. How you handle a stressful situation or relate to others, for example, can determine the state of your mental health. If you’ve been struggling but are hesitating about getting help for fear of being judged, now is the time to release that fear and seek counseling. Not sure if what you’re feeling is part of mental health? Let’s discuss.
Mental health conditions
Most of us have experienced one or more challenging times in our lives and those times can be overwhelming, leaving our mental health to suffer. Millions of Americans experience mental health conditions. Some conditions are more prevalent among college students due to the stress of studying, juggling work and extracurriculars, maintaining relationships, etc. Some of these conditions may include:
Anxiety
Depression
Eating disorders
Substance abuse
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Bipolar disorder
Sleeping issues and disorders
Self-injury
If you’ve been experiencing any of these conditions, it’s important to realize that you’re not alone. Internalizing and ignoring any of these conditions can lead you to feeling isolated, alone and with nowhere to turn. It is important to achieve mental wellness by finding a healthy balance between your studies, job, family and extracurriculars, while seeking the appropriate support. To learn about the wellness programs and activities offered at Vaughn, read our blog: “Stress Awareness Month: How Vaughn Helps You Find Your Balance.”
Some facts about anxiety disorder
Anxiety is the most common form of mental illness in the United States, affecting 40 million adults in the United States age 18 and older, or 18.1% of the population every year according to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America
In many cases, anxiety disorders are treatable
Only about 36 percent of affected people choose to get help
Exercise is a proven way to help lessen the effects of anxiety disorders
The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health
There’s no denying the pandemic has impacted our mental well-being. And for college students, this impact has complicated life even further. Remote learning has caused students to be much less social, more sedentary and more complacent. Even with the latest easing of COVID-19 restrictions, students are still feeling the emotional impacts of the pandemic. Some of these include:
Relationships—Social distancing may have put a strain on relationships with friends and partners.
Remote learning—Learning via Zoom can cause students to feel isolated, alone, and complacent.
Loss of loved ones—Complications from COVID-19 may have taken the lives of loved ones which takes a long-term toll on mental health.
Healthy ways to improve your mental health
First, let’s start by saying that self-care isn’t selfish. Good mental health begins with being honest with yourself, your feelings and emotions. Here are some healthy ways to improve or maintain good mental health:
Self-check-ins—Regular self-check-ins are important steps for reflecting on how you’re feeling and addressing anything that might be upsetting you. The goal here is to not ignore any issues but to work through them or seek help if needed.
Schedule some “me” time—Life can get busy and overwhelming with studying, work and other responsibilities. Make time to do things that bring you peace and joy, even if it means setting boundaries with others. Remember it’s ok to say “no” sometimes. Whether it’s meeting up with friends, going on a nature walk or even packing a picnic lunch in the park, taking a break from the books is a great way to nurture your mental health.
Check-in on loved ones—Friends and family may be struggling with their own mental health. A simple phone call or visit can make all the difference to helping them feel loved and encouraged. (And it may help you, too!)
Form a study group or get a study buddy—Studying with friends is always better than studying alone. Even if you prefer to study alone, checking your knowledge with your peers can never hurt.
Participate in on-campus happenings, events and clubs—Doing things outside of your normal comfort zone and meeting other students or alumni with similar interests will invigorate your soul and help you to feel a part of something larger. Check out Vaughn’s events calendar for students – there’s always something fun going on!
If you need someone to talk to or want more information on staying mentally healthy, we encourage you to make an appointment at Vaughn’s office of counseling and wellness. Vaughn is committed to helping you overcome any challenges and guide you towards graduating and obtaining your dream career. Need help academically? Stop by Vaughn’s Academic Success Center – it’s always open to provide you with the one-on-one support you need to succeed in your classes.
“It’s important that we let students know that a career is a journey that is not always linear,” said Chaundra Daniels, director of career services. “A career can pivot. It can zig and zag and lead you places you might not think you’d ever go. That’s why we want students and alumni to know that career services is here to support their career success through graduation and after—we don’t stop when they walk out the door. And I think that Nick and Katherine each found out that we mean it when we say that Vaughn graduates can come back to us and get help any time.”
When Singleman qualified for air traffic control at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Academy in Oklahoma City in 2024 and was assigned to FAA air traffic control in Fairbanks, Alaska, he was excited about the opportunity to pursue the career he had set his sights on when he enrolled at Vaughn College. Growing up on Long Island, his mother employed at Lufthansa, Singleman learned about the Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) from his aunt and had decided that Vaughn’s program, combined with an associate degree in airport management, was the best path to take. During his student years, he enjoyed two airport management internships with Avports at Republic Airport in Farmingdale, became president of the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) and graduated from Vaughn magna cum laude.
Inamagua’s aviation career had always followed an upward trajectory. As a high school student, she had watched airplanes flying overhead near her home and decided she wanted to be a pilot. By the following fall, she was attending Vaughn College, where she excelled and was advised by a professor that she would be a good fit for air traffic control (ATC). “I researched air traffic and changed my degree to aeronautical sciences with a minor in air traffic control,” said Inamagua. “My professor, Professor Walcott, is still a mentor and put that curiosity in my mind, and I have loved air traffic control ever since.”
Khuram emphasized the well-rounded 
Anyone who works with their hands will love having light at their fingertips—when and where they need it. These cleverly engineered flashlight gloves have LED lights on the index finger and thumb, which makes working in dark spaces an illuminating experience. Plus, they’re made to be ambidextrous, so there’s no fumbling when time is of the essence. Talk about shedding light on the subject!
The control system of the mechanical arm shown here is equipped with:
Be a meteorologist in your own backyard! This innovative smart weather station allows you to monitor the weather conditions at your home and backyard at a glance using a bright, LCD color display. You can keep up with the current temperature, humidity, rainfall, wind speeds and so much more via the wireless all-in-one integrated sensor. This makes a great gift for anyone who loves meteorology—or just likes talking about the weather.
How does it do that? This magnetic levitating globe is one of the coolest gifts to give this holiday season. Powered by electricity, the globe levitates by use of powerful magnets on the top and bottom of the unit. It’s the perfect gift for the students, engineers, scientists and curiosity-seekers in your life.
The latest aviator smartwatches have amazing features that the pilot in your life will be sure to appreciate. These watches have touchscreen displays with GPS/moving map, weather/radar reports, call/text and animated workouts. It also can be paired to an app to transfer flight plans. With so many different variations of this type of watch, there’s definitely one for your pilot!