SEE WHERE THEY STARTED / THEN AND NOW
Purpose and Perseverance
When we last spoke to Dustin Foote (’23, ’24) in 2023, he had recently completed his A.S. in Aviation Maintenance at Embry-Riddle after eight years of service in the U.S. Army. After transitioning to a role at The Boeing Company through the DOD SkillBridge program, Foote quickly climbed the ranks in his division. At the end of 2024, Foote graduated with his B.S. in Aviation Maintenance at Embry-Riddle and was awarded the Spirit Award by the Worldwide Campus’ College of Aviation and the SGA for Outstanding Academic Achievement. Foote’s plans for advancement don’t end here. He recently began his MBA in Aviation, also at Embry-Riddle, as well as a certificate in Project Management. Now, Foote is working within United Airline’s Aviate Academy as an aviation maintenance technician — but his career goals go even further. I want to make a difference, wherever I am and have a positive influence on operations, business success and the people around me.”
LEADING BY EXAMPLE Charlie Woods (’13, ’24) understands the power of mentorship. As a U.S. Air Force captain and dedicated student, he credits his success to the mentors who guided him and his commitment to paying that guidance forward. At age 21, Woods enlisted in the Air Force at Moody Air Force Base in Georgia. There, his supervisor, Aaron Gordon (’10), an Embry-Riddle alumnus with a degree in Aeronautics, introduced him to the value of higher education. His mentor didn’t just encourage Woods to enroll — he signed up for the same classes, setting an example of leadership and support that left a lasting impact. That first step led Woods to earn a B.S. in Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Worldwide, paving the way for his career as an MQ-9 Reaper evaluator pilot and wing executive officer for the 1st Special Operations Wing. While balancing the demands of a busy military career and a family of five, he continued to push himself further, pursuing an M.S. in Project Management to prepare for life beyond the Air Force.
Through his journey, mentorship has played a defining role in shaping his leadership style. “My experience is broad, but the success I’ve found throughout my personal and profes- sional life is a direct reflection of mentors who’ve poured into me over the years,” he said. “My legacy will be watching those that come behind me find success.” Beyond ensuring a brighter future, Woods finds his current classes already benefiting him in unexpected ways, sharpening his decision-making and organizational skills. “Embry‑Riddle reshaped a future I didn’t know I had in front of me. I’m the first college graduate in my family and will soon hold the first graduate degree,” he said. “It’s not always been easy … but at the end of the day, the benefits of education far outweigh the costs, and I’m proud to be able to set the example for my children to follow.”
Dustin Foote ’23, ’24 A.S., B.S. in Aviation Maintenance
RESILIENCE IN ACTION
SUCCESS TAKES MENTORSHIP
Read how Dustin Foote turned obstacles into opportunity — and how his journey might inspire yours.
Discover how Embry‑Riddle mentors helped shape a legacy of leadership.
17 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
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