Center for Aerospace Safety/Security Education

CASE Beginnings

The concept of a center for aerospace safety education was originally proposed by Embry-Riddle Prescott Professor William D. Waldock in 1986; he envisioned a series of courses and laboratory opportunities that would allow future and current aviation professionals to become educated in aerospace safety. At the time, he attracted the support of Embry-Riddle senior management, including President Kenneth Tallman. The Center for Aerospace Safety (CASE) became a reality in the summer of 1988. Later that year, an Advisory Council of prominent Safety professionals was formed to provide guidance for the new center.

CASE Growth

CASE's initial thrust was to expand course offerings to undergraduate degree seeking students. The next objective and achievement was the development of a successful aviation safety certificate program. The Certificate of Management in Aviation Safety consisted of short course offerings in aircraft accident investigation, safety program management, and occupational safety and health/aviation ground safety; it was designed to meet the needs of working professionals throughout the aerospace industry.

Other early CASE achievements included an increase in safety research opportunities, enhanced relationships with other safety organizations, and the construction of an accident investigation laboratory on the Embry-Riddle Prescott Campus.

CASE Going Forward

Throughout the history of CASE, the Advisory Council has served as a source of support, encouragement, and sage advice under the leadership of (successively) C.O. Miller, Chuck Mercer, and currently John O'Brien, Director of Safety and Engineering for ALPA. The Council membership has evolved over the years to include key players in commercial and general aviation operations and manufacturing as well the influential trade associations and unions. In addition, four of the 20+ council members also serve on the Embry-Riddle Board of Trustees.