By: Dylan Mardoian
This week’s Friday Feature is Jessica Birnbaum. She graduated from the program in 2004 with a bachelor’s degree in Aviation Administration (now Aviation Management and Operations) and is now a Faculty Specialist at the College of Aviation. “I chose WMU because we are one of the best flight schools in the country and I just knew I was meant to go here” she said, “I did not want to be anywhere else, so it was the only school I applied to. Good thing I got in!!!” After graduation, she went on to work at large hub airports such as Detroit Metro (DTW) and Denver International (DEN). This included airfield and airport ops, emergency management, snow removal, project and contract management, and organizational development. She also got to engage in fun and interesting projects at work. These experiences gave her a great deal of invaluable knowledge in the professional aviation community.
During her time at DTW, she worked for Comair Inc. as a lead Customer Service agent. Her duties included baggage service, deicing and push back of aircraft. “It was one of the most fun jobs I ever worked,” Birnbaum said to us. While working for Comair. Inc, she also helped aid Delta aircraft.
After working for DTW, she moved on to work at DEN. “I loved working at DEN” she told us, “That airport is completely unique!” She did everything from Wildlife Coordinator to Commuter Rail Service. In addition, for her last two years at DEN, Birnbaum worked as the Senior Manager in the Security Department where she oversaw the $98 million Security Guard Contract.
From DTW to DEN, Birnbaum ended up back at her Western Michigan University home. Her spirit for this university rivals that of even a current student’s. Her favorite part of WMU is Buster Bronco and what he symbolizes. Birnbaum gave us a very important piece of advice as well! “It is important for students to know that everything they experience (positive and negative) is an opportunity and will lead them to the next step in life. Embrace it, learn from it, and keep moving forward!”
Some fun facts about Birnbaum are that she loves getting to go outside and spend time in the sun, especially with her dog. Black Lake in Cheboygan, MI is her favorite place to visit. Lastly, we had to ask her what her favorite plane was. She loves the Boeing 757!
We are very thankful to have Jessica here with us at the WMU College of Aviation! Go Broncos!