Expert: David A. NewMyer - 6/3/2008

Question
hello, how's it going? i just have a couple of questions and it seems like you know a lot of answers. I am currently serving in the United States Air Force as an aircraft mechanic. I will have 6 years of experience on the structural portion of the aircraft when I get out next year. As far as education goes, I have an associates degree in aviation maintenance from CCAF(Community college of the Air Force). I am working on getting a BS in professional aeronautics from embry-riddle university worldwide. I am aiming to be an airport manager. I really don't know which bachelor's degree I am supposed to go for. My counselor just recommended pro aero but she isn't all that sure. Should I continue pursuing this degree to become an airport manager? Or should I start looking at other options? Any help is greatly appreciated. Thank you very much and have a blessed day.

Answer
Hi,

I am not really familiar with all of the Embry Riddle Aero degrees but I would take a degree that gave you as many airport management, airport planning and related classes as possible.  Also, you will need to know something about financial management, how to manage people, real estate and aviation regulations (and safety management).  So, the degree that gets you the closest to those topics would be the best for you to take to get into airport management.  I would also suggest that you join the American Association of Airport Executives as an Academic Member...it only costs $40 a year and this organization gives you a great boost in terms of professional development related to airport management.

All the best  to you.

David A. NewMyer