About the University

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s prestigious history began nearly 100 years ago, when John Paul Riddle and T. Higbee Embry harnessed a lofty vision that was rooted in the fascination of flight and the possibilities that aviation presented for the future.

This innovative, leading-edge thinking has guided us ever since, taking Embry-Riddle from a fledgling flight school to the world-renowned leader in all things aviation and aerospace.

Today, our professors are industry experts conducting ground-breaking research and sharing their experience with our students — a group of focused high-achievers working passionately to build futures in the industries they love.

Our 150,000-plus alumni have set a standard for leadership and excellence from the flight deck to the C-suite, while our talented and growing workforce is empowered every day to reach their highest potential as they cultivate careers they can be proud of.

After more than nine decades of growth and discovery, Embry-Riddle is one renowned global university with three distinctly unique campuses, offering unparalleled education for our students and unequaled opportunities for our faculty and staff.

Read more about our history

See Embry-Riddle through the Decades

 

Leadership and Direction

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is led by President Dr. P. Barry Butler, who reports to the university’s Board of Trustees. As the recognized leader in aviation and aerospace higher education, Embry-Riddle continues expanding applied research and innovation in areas ranging from autonomous systems to commercial space operations.

Daily contributions from our skilled faculty and dedicated staff create an atmosphere of success and empowerment, key reasons why we have been named as a Great College to Work For for the past 13 years.

“I am extremely pleased that Embry‑Riddle staff and faculty continue to take great pride and satisfaction in helping students succeed, as well as preparing them for meaningful leadership roles across industry, government and the military,” Dr. Butler said of the 2023 honor, adding: “It is that shared mission, along with the university’s investment in its people, that makes the university an exceptional place to work.”

Read more about our leadership

Strategic Initiatives

In 2023, Embry‑Riddle unveiled a new university-wide strategic plan (2023-28) designed to keep the institution true to its mission, advance its vision, and honor its values. Every employee had an opportunity to make suggestions and many were incorporated into the plan. Strategic Implementation Teams identified best practices, key goals, success metrics and next steps in five areas.

• The Student Experience
• Enrollment Management
• Academic and Faculty Excellence
• Research and Innovation
• Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement

See our five-year strategic plan