Extracurricular Activities:Collegiate Aviation Business Executives (CABE) - Part of the first leadership team as Media Officer
What career or personal update would you like to give to your fellow Florida Tech Panthers alumni?
I am the Chief Executive Officer of Airport Planning Solutions, and Founder of IDTS Consulting. Prior to that, I had secured my first job as a junior aviation planner for a global engineering firm right after graduating from Florida Tech. During my career which spanned which has lasted almost 17 years, I worked in both the public and private sectors. I had the opportunity to help run and modernize multiple civil and military airports such as Los Angeles International Airport, John F. Kennedy International Airport, Chicago O'Hare International Airport, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (in Mumbai, India). I also won several industry awards Airport Business Top 40 under 40, and ACC Young Professionals Innovation Award (First Place). Earlier this month, I published my first training manual: AutoCAD Aviation Planning and Design Training Manual: Two-Dimensional Airfield Layout.
How did your time at Florida Tech help get you to where you are today?
My time at Florida Tech prepared me to be marketable and effective on Day 1 of my professional career. It was extremely helpful to learn from instructors with industry experience. Core aviation courses at Florida Tech are hands on, practical, and prepare students to tackle current industry challenges upon graduation. I have encountered and worked with many Florida Tech College of Aeronautics alumni throughout my career.
What is your favorite Florida Tech memory?
My favorite memory was the graduation ceremony back in May 2007. My father flew from Senegal to celebrate with me. At some point during the ceremony, I looked up and saw many flags representing the nationalities of graduates. I noticed that the Senegalese flag was up there too, and I believe I was the only student from Senegal graduating on that day. That day was a proud moment for me and my family.
Was there a mentor or professor who had a big impact on you personally and/or professionally?
Many professors had a big impact on my career, I really learned from some of the best professors in the industry. Former Professor Fin. Bonset had the most impact on my career because he inspired to become an aviation consultant. He also thought two of most important classes that prepare you for that career path: Airport Planning and AutoCAD for Airport Environments.
Please share any advice you have for current Florida Tech students.
Your college education is a long-term investment, make sure you treat it as such. Always look for opportunities to stand out, and finally never stop learning and improving your skills throughout your career.
Please share your LinkedIn profile to connect with Florida Tech students and faculty.
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