Center for Aerospace Safety/Security Education (CASE)

Embry-Riddle's Center for Aerospace Safety/Security Education (CASE) promotes and provides essential aviation safety education and resources to the international aviation community.

The concept of a separate center for aerospace safety education was originally proposed by ERAU Prescott Professor William D.Waldock in 1986. At that time, the safety curriculum at the university consisted of two safety survey courses, offered within the aeronautical science degree program. Professor Waldock envisioned a series of courses and laboratory opportunities which would allow future aviation professionals to become educated in aerospace safety at the beginning of their careers. He attracted the support of ERAU senior management, including President Kenneth Tallman, and 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's initial thrust was to expand the course offerings to undergraduates. From 1988 through 1992, the number of safety courses increased from two courses to nine, and the student credit hours delivered increased from 800 to 4,500. During that period an Aviation Safety minor was established -- the first minor offered in the University's history. Graduate level courses in Aviation Safety were also initiated.

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 ERAU Board of Trustees.

Since the tragic events of September 11, 2001, the mission of CASE has been expanded to include the broad subject of aerospace/aviation security. Accordingly, the Vision, Mission, and Objectives of CASE have been broadened to incorporate this additional focus. CASE has been designated the principal coordinating agent for both safety and security education issues at ERAU.

Jayme Nichols
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Please Contact:
Center for Aerospace Safety/Security Education
Phone: 386-226-6928
Email: jayme.nichols@erau.edu