CAMPUS FEATURE
Education, much like aviation, is a lifelong journey — an opportunity to broaden knowledge, gain diverse perspectives and stand out in a competitive industry.”
Yunpeng Zhang ’25, ’27 B.S. in Aeronautics
TRADING TRAFFIC FOR TAKEOFF Charting a Course on His Terms: A Veteran Engineer’s Worldwide Journey Former Air Force Engineer Yunpeng Zhang (’25, ’27) is pursuing a pilot career through Embry-Riddle’s flexible Worldwide programs. After six years as a U.S. Air Force civil engineer, Zhang set his sights on a higher horizon — the flight deck. Inspired by an air show he saw during his enlistment, he chose Embry-Riddle Worldwide based on its stellar reputation for all things aeronautical. “Embry-Riddle’s strong academic programs, industry connections and commitment to aviation excellence made it the ideal choice for advancing my career as a pilot,” Zhang says. Industry-seasoned faculty provided
His decision proved fruitful as he continued his Aeronautics education at the Worldwide Campus, progressing from a B.S. to an M.S. in Aeronautics. Seeing opportunities disguised as challenges, Zhang chose to train at the Riverside Airport location because the region’s diverse terrain and weather conditions would sharpen his situational awareness as a pilot. To skip Los Angeles’ rush-hour traffic, Zhang began commuting by air — renting a Cessna 172 and logging Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) flight hours while reducing a two-hour drive to a 30-minute flight. He credits the Worldwide Campus’ hybrid education model with allowing him to pair online flexibility with in-person flight training. The approach has strengthened skills essential for a pilot. “A strong academic background enhances a pilot’s critical-thinking, problem-solving and decision-making skills,” Zhang reflects. With hard work and Embry-Riddle’s support, Zhang is building the expertise to launch a successful aviation career. His story shows how military veterans can transition into civilian careers without sacrificing ambition — or altitude.
As we celebrate our centennial, Embry-Riddle honors its longstanding commitment to veterans, service members and their families through comprehensive benefits and dedicated support, including: Reduced Tuition /// Reduced tuition rates for active-duty personnel, reservists and their dependents under the age of 26. Adaptable Pathways /// Flexible learning options, including in-person classes and online courses delivered through Canvas and EagleVision, a live web videoconferencing platform. Military Support /// Dedicated guidance for veterans, active-duty service members and dependents through our Military and Veteran Services department. Benefits Guidance /// Support with enrollment, financial aid and access to veteran-specific benefits. MyCAA Program /// Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA) program participant.
real-world insights, and coursework emphasized actionable outcomes.
29 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
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