Five Questions With: Emily Summey

Serving as Women in Aviation president and Alpha Eta Rho event coordinator, while also working as the operations control coordinator at FIT Aviation, Emily Summey is an involved COA student. We sat down to talk to her about her goals, her favorite experience at Florida Tech and what she views as a Florida Tech staple.

1. What are you studying at Florida Tech?
   I’m studying both aviation management with flight and air traffic control. I also do flight training at FIT Aviation and am currently working toward my commercial license.
2. What is your goal for the future?
   My goal for the future is to become a flight instructor and then, an airline pilot. I hope to one day fly internationally and combine my career with my love for traveling the world.
3. What has been your favorite experience at Florida Tech?
   Florida Tech has provided so many amazing opportunities and experiences! It’s hard to choose just one, but I would say working orientation week as a resident assistant was one of the most memorable. I had the opportunity to welcome the incoming freshmen and build their excitement for Florida Tech. That week was filled with school spirit, and getting to contribute to that was so fun.
4. In your opinion, what is a Florida Tech staple?
   A Florida Tech staple that remains a favorite of mine is the botanical garden. I love detouring through the garden between classes as a way to reset during a hectic day. There are also tables that make for a quiet and calm place to study or catch up on homework.
5. When you’re not studying, what do you like to do?
   When I’m not studying, I like to plan events for the organizations on campus! This year, I have the opportunity to serve as the president of Women in Aviation and the event coordinator of Alpha Eta Rho. Both of these positions fill my time with planning and attending fun events! Outside of the organizations, I love to run, play tennis and go to the beach.

Women In Aviation

Dedicated to the advancement of women in all aviation-related fields, the Women in Aviation International (WAI) organization offers members many networking opportunities with both pilot and nonpilot aviation workers, as well as the U.S. Air Force.

“This organization gives women a spotlight in a male-dominated field,” Summey said. “It grows a community of support between women who face similar challenges in their journey to their careers.”

The Space Coast Florida Tech Chapter has hosted a variety of guest speakers with diverse backgrounds, as well as community-building activities, such as gingerbread house-making and major information nights.

In June, the chapter hosted FIT Aviation’s Summer Social in partnership with the Florida Tech Flight Team, Alpha Eta Rho and Endeavor Air, offering free discovery flights. Some members also traveled to Long Beach, California, in February to attend the annual WAI Conference.

“I love being a member, because there are so many amazing women that pour out support and advice into those just beginning their careers,” Summey said. “I have met many lifelong friends and mentors through this organization, and I encourage others to find these connections, as well. Our WAI chapter is excited to grow—we have fun and exciting plans for this year and are hopeful to bring some new faces to our meetings.”