provided me with incredible opportunities — both my research role at LLNL and my career in the Air Force stem from it.” Lessons in Leadership and Perseverance Reflecting on his time at Embry-Riddle, Idema credits the passion of his professors for making complex subjects come alive. “Professors like Dr. Hughes in Classical Mechanics or Col. Dayton in ROTC weren’t just teaching — they were sharing their love for their fields,” he recalls. “Those moments turned daunting coursework into something inspiring.” Idema’s biggest challenge was workload balance. With rigorous coursework, ROTC commitments, club activities, fitness training and personal time, Idema learned the importance of building strong habits early. “It’s a tough job, but that makes it all the more rewarding. Staying proficient requires both humility — admitting mistakes and learning from them — and perseverance — continuing to fly and improve despite setbacks.” As for what’s next? Idema has one clear goal: “Become a full- fledged Air Force pilot!”
Zac Idema B.S. IN ENGINEERING PHYSICS
Emily Diegel B.S. IN COMPUTATIONAL MATHEMATICS From Computational Mathematics to National Security: A Journey of Research and Discovery Emily Diegel (’24) has always had a passion for problem-solving. Now, as a Ph.D. student in Mathematics at Texas A&M University and a Data Scientist at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), she’s using that interest to tackle real-world challenges in national security. A Path Defined by Mentorship and Discovery Diegel’s journey to mathematics wasn’t linear. Initially drawn to Aerospace Engineering, she realized after a year that her true passion lay in Computational Mathematics and Data Science. That’s when she met Dr. Mihhail Berezovski, associate professor of Mathematics, who would become a pivotal mentor in her career. “Dr. Berezovski gave me real-world experience with industry and showed me the field where math intersects with national security,” she says. “Without his guidance, I would not be where I am today.” Through Berezovski’s mentorship, Diegel began conducting research at the Nevada National Security Site, where she learned how to present research, write scientific reports and network in her field. These experiences led her to publish her research, present at international conferences — including in Saudi Arabia — and gain hands-on industry experience, all while still an undergraduate student. From Embry-Riddle to a Career in Data Science After completing her undergraduate degree, Diegel landed an internship at the PNNL — one of the nation’s leading research institutions focused on science and technology advancements. “Embry-Riddle prepared me for both industry and research,” she explains. “Through the Embry-Riddle Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program, I learned how to conduct research, communicate my findings and stand out in the job market.” Now, as a full-time Ph.D. student, she balances coursework in Applied Mathematics and Machine Learning while continuing her role at PNNL. “A typical day as a Ph.D. student involves a lot of studying and coursework. Most first-year students don’t dive into research right away, but I’ve been fortunate to keep my industry experience going at the same time.”
From cutting-edge plasma physics research to soaring through the skies as a U.S. Air Force student pilot, Zac Idema (’24) exemplifies the perseverance and passion that defines Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University alumni. His journey showcases how Embry-Riddle’s dynamic academic environment and deep-rooted aviation culture helped shape his career. Pushing the Boundaries of Science Before embarking on his military aviation career, Idema spent a summer at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) conducting theoretical research on electron-emitting surfaces interacting with plasma fields. His work, which may soon be published in Physical Review Letters, ranged from deriving complex equations to coding models of plasma behavior. “Some days were spent deep in theoretical discussions, challenging our own ideas, and refining our approach,” Idema recalls. “Being surrounded by some of the brightest minds in science was an incredible experience.” Taking Flight with the U.S. Air Force After commissioning in the US Air Forces as a First Lieutenant, Idema transitioned into a new role — this time in the cockpit. Now a student pilot in the U.S. Air Force, he’s following a structured training regimen, not unlike the experience of many freshman and sophomore Embry-Riddle aviation students. “I didn’t fly at Embry-Riddle, but I had many friends who did,” he says. “Now, my days consist of studying flight principles and getting hands-on experience — sometimes flying twice a day. The only difference? I get to wear a flight suit while doing it.” Finding Purpose at Embry-Riddle For Idema, choosing Embry-Riddle was about more than just academics — it was about a shared passion for aviation. “There’s no other university that brings people together around aviation like Embry-Riddle,” he says. “Everything I studied in Engineering Physics connected back to flight or spaceflight, giving my education a real sense of purpose.” Beyond the classroom, the Air Force ROTC (AFROTC) program played a pivotal role in shaping his career. “Embry-Riddle’s detachment is one of the largest in the country, yet the camaraderie is unparalleled. AFROTC
The Reward of Research and Impactful Work One of the most exciting moments in Diegel’s career so far was receiving acceptance letters to all three of her top-choice graduate programs. “I spent months on applications, doing everything I could to stand out,” she recalls. “When I got my first acceptance ... I was over the moon. That was the moment I realized that everything I had done at Embry-Riddle was worth it.” Beyond academia, Diegel finds immense fulfillment in her work at PNNL. “At the lab, I get to work on real-world problems that have a huge impact on the United States. I love the work I do in national security because it directly affects the people around me,” she says. What’s Next? As she progresses through her Ph.D. program, Diegel is focused on preparing for her qualifying exams this summer. Looking further ahead, she’s excited to continue research in applied mathematics and continue pushing the boundaries of data science in national security.
With his relentless drive and passion for aviation, there’s no doubt he’ll achieve it.
Zac Idema (’24) Engineering Physics
16 | Daytona Beach College of Arts & Sciences
2024 - 2025 Annual Report | 17
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