This past spring break, students interested in aviation embarked on a Career Trek organized by the Career Success team, journeying to Chicago to delve into the aviation industry. The trip provided an invaluable opportunity for students to network with professionals and Ohio State alumni, while exploring various facets of the aviation sector.

The first day included a visit to United Airlines’ operations at O’Hare International Airport, where students analyzed flight plans, observed the United Airlines Ramp Tower, and toured a Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Day two featured visits to United’s Network Operations Center and global headquarters at Willis Tower. The trip wrapped up with a visit to Chicago Executive Airport and the American Airlines hangar at O’Hare, offering a glimpse into private aviation and airplane maintenance.

Among the students was Bryn Barr, an Air Transportation major, who secured an internship with United Airlines as a Flight Operations Intern at Dulles International Airport following the Trek. We sat down with Bryn to discuss the experience and his plans for the future.

Can you start by telling us about the Career Trek experience? What was the experience like? How do you feel the trek furthered your development?

The Career Trek experience was a wonderful opportunity to network with future employers and learn more about the aviation industry and my future career opportunities. I was able to connect with multiple individuals within the industry who have helped me grow and connected me to opportunities such as my current internship with United Airlines as a Flight Operations Intern at Dulles International Airport.

What were your first impressions during your visit to United Airlines, and were there specific moments or interactions that stood out to you?

When we first arrived at the Flight Operations office, I was excited to see behind the scenes of the operation. I was welcomed by the staff, and I learned a lot about the airline from my brief time there.

How has the ASC Career Success prepared you for engaging with potential employers like United Airlines?

The staff within ASC Career Success were interactive and responsive to my questions. I was able to get one-on-one help to improve my resume and interview skills. I had a chance to Zoom with Megan D’Angelo, a career coach, to practice a mock interview before my interview with United Airlines. ASC Career Success has been instrumental in ensuring readiness for my future career.

Tell me more about your internship this summer. What is your role with United?

This summer, I am the Flight Operations Intern in the Chief Pilot’s Office at Dulles International Airport. I work directly with the UA Flight Operations team in Dulles, helping support the DCA-based pilots and the airline. I have the incredible opportunity to experience the airline from an insider perspective. This summer, I will have the chance to fly in the jump seat on multiple domestic and international flights to get a better understanding of what the day-to-day job of a pilot looks like. I work for Chief Pilot Captain Jill Mills, and I help her work on projects that support United’s core4 values of creating a safe, caring, dependable, and efficient environment.

What are the key skills you hope to learn during your internship?

I am eager to learn more about the many moving parts that work together to ensure the airline runs smoothly. I hope to expand my knowledge and improve my industry expertise.

With this internship experience, how do you view your future career in the aviation industry?

With this internship experience, I see myself continuing to pursue a career as an airline pilot. I hope to work as a flight instructor to build flight time until I qualify for my Airline Transport Pilots License. I am greatly enjoying my experience with United Airlines, and I would love the opportunity to fly for UA in the future.

What advice would you give to other students about participating in Career Treks?

My advice to other students is to participate in as much as possible. Career Treks are an excellent opportunity to network with professionals in your field of interest and to learn more about your future career options.

Any closing thoughts or advice for students who are perhaps still exploring their career paths?

To students who are still exploring their options, I would advise you to continue to participate in as much as possible. Even if the opportunity is outside of your field, still participate if it interests you. Do not be afraid to explore opportunities just because you are unsure of what you want. One of the greatest benefits of activities like Career Treks is the opportunity to explore new possibilities and learn more about what interests you.

Congratulations to Bryn Barr on his successful internship with United Airlines, and we look forward to seeing his career take flight.