Faculty at ERAU Asia are more than educators. They share a passion for aviation and aerospace that extends far beyond the classroom. Many of them hold full-time industry positions during the day and share with you their wealth of real-world experiences. They foster partnerships with fellow professionals and global businesses to stay in the know with the latest industry trends and ensure that the curriculum satisfies the needs of employers. The average teacher-to-student ratio in either full-time or part-time modalities is 1:15.
While many of our faculty have profiles below, a comprehensive list of faculty is also available.
Julian Azfar
Adjunct Faculty
Education
- Master of Arts in Health Ethics and Law, University of Manchester
- Master of Arts in Southeast Asian Studies, National University of Singapore
- Post-Graduate Diploma in Education, Nanyang Technology University
Biography
With an academic background spanning the humanities, law and ethics, Mr. Azfar is an experienced university lecturer who always aims to situate abstract theories and concepts in real-world contexts. Julian teaches in the areas of integrated social sciences, ethics and professionalism, and moral reasoning and philosophical inquiry. Specifically, he has taught university courses in bioethics, healthcare ethics, research ethics, and social ethics and social responsibility. He is a passionate teacher who is keen to help all his students see the value of deep reflection and social justice to real life, regardless of their professions. In his free time, Julian enjoys fitness, yoga and catching up with friends over coffee and dessert.
Research Domains/Interests
- Interdisciplinary Curriculum Development in Higher Education
- Academic Skills in Higher Education Curriculum
Dr. Marwan Mauricio Chedid
Adjunct Assistant Professor
Education
- Post-Graduate Certificate in Safety and Accident Investigation (Air Transport), Cranfield University, 2020
- Doctor in Aerospace, Cranfield University School of Engineering, 2018
- Master of Science in Aerospace, Cranfield University School of Engineering, 2009
Biography
Dr. Marwan Maurizio Chedid is based in Singapore. Since 2016, he has been the Technical Director of his own international consultancy business focusing on certification of aerospace organizations and products, air safety and associated training.
This has been driven by a wide range of professional and academic experience in structural, flight loads, ground and flight-testing certification activities in technical departments of military and civil design, production and maintenance organizations developing a broad understanding of quality and safety management tools and the associated requirements.
He graduated with a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Politecnico di Milano, Italy, (1998), followed by service in the Italian Army as Officer of Alpine until 2000.
He became involved in various roles within the Technical Department and Office of Airworthiness for the Type Investigation of new general aviation aircraft, such as Vulcan Air VF600W (2000-2004), Pilatus PC-24 (2010-2014), Evektor EV-55 (2015-2017), Comac (2018) under EASA (EU), FAA (US), TCCA (CAN) and CAAC (CHN) Civil Aviation rules.
He was appointed as Certification Validation Engineer (CVE equivalent to FAA DER), System Monitoring and Certification Manager of an EASA-approved Design Organization, gaining exposure in all related civil aviation requirements, initial and continuing airworthiness, and international recognized aerospace standards, ASTM International (American Society of Testing and Materials for Aerospace and Additive Manufacturing) and ASQ (American Society for Quality). Similarly, on the military side, Defence and Military Standards became part of his knowledge.
Mainly at Marshall Aerospace, Cambridge, UK (2004-2008), under Ministry of Defence (MoD) mandatory requirements, he dealt with Continuing Airworthiness Maintenance Organisation (CAMO) challenges, such as Structural Integrity Projects leader/specialist (C-130J, Sentry E-3D and Tristar aircraft of the RAF and RAAF), where he learned the principles of Flight Loads Measurement applied through the final product design service life, and with the close interaction with QinetiQ, Farnborough, UK, (formerly the Defence Evaluation and Research Agency - DERA) as certification representatives of the UK MoD.
This experience became relevant during the Pilatus PC-9A trainer aircraft Life Extension Program and topic of his Ph.D. thesis (2018) at Cranfield University, UK, by means of data offered by the Italian Aerospace Research Centre (CIRA) on a Dropped Transonic Flight Test (DTFT) Unmanned Space Vehicle (USV) to improve the quality of the final set of loads equations by means of numerical and statistics tools, and experimental, ground and flight test techniques.
Additional to leading knowledge in this industry, he was exposed to the academic, lecturing and research world. This included collaborations with the University of Naples, "Federico Secondo," working in such areas as static and dynamic landing gear certification testing controlled by statistical methods to improve the final product quality design. While at Cranfield University, during his M.Sc. research on composite materials (2010), he served as assistant researcher and lecturer of Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) at the Boeing IVHM Centre, Cranfield University.
Over the following years, he has begun focusing on eVTOL (electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing), LSA (Light Sport Aircraft), Light Rotorcraft and UAV, and also to the science of Aircraft Accident Investigation as a recognized ICAO Annex 13 Accident Investigator (Safety and Accident Investigation Centre at Cranfield University) and technical advisor of AAIB (Air Accident Investigation Brunch) Malaysia as platforms for his Air Safety and Flight Loads Measurement research and certification studies.
Past Teaching Experience
- Landing Gear Drop Test, Numerical and Experimental Investigations – Aircraft Structures Department Naples University Federico II – Prof. Leonardo Lecce (2000-2005)
- An Introduction to Vehicle Health Management – Boeing IVHM Integrated Vehicle Health Management Centre of Cranfield University – Prof. Ian Jennions and Dr. Stephen Hobbs (2009-2013)
- Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV) DEMON Structural and Flutter Investigations – Aircraft Vehicle Design, Cranfield University – Prof. John Fielding (2008-2009)
- Unmanned Space Vehicle (USV) Polluce/Castore and Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) Campaign – Applied Mechanics Department, Cranfield University/ NSIRC, National Structural Integrity Research Centre at Brunel University London – Prof. Rade Vignjevic, Dr. Kevin Hughes (2009-2015)
Courses Taught
- SFTY 330 - Aircraft Accident Investigation
- SFTY 345 - Aviation Safety Program Management
- SFTY 375 - Propulsion Plant Investigation
- SFTY 435 - Aircraft Crash Survival Analysis and Design
Kim Chua
Instructor & Director, Office of Student Success
KimChua.Chua@erau.eduEducation
- University of Bath, UK- Doctorate Degree in Educational Studies (Ongoing)
- Master's in Asian Studies, RSIS, NTU, 2012
- Bachelor's in English Language and Communication Studies, SIM University, 2011
- Diploma in UN System, Peace and Human Rights, Negotiation Skills, United Nations University, 2010
- Master's in Educational Studies, University Of York (UK), 2009
- Cambridge International Diploma for Teachers/Trainers, University of Cambridge (UK), 2009
- Advanced Certificate in Training and AssessmentWSQ, 2009
- Bachelor’s in Arts and Social Sciences, National University of Singapore, 2001
Biography
Ms. Kim Chua is currently an Instructor and Director of Student Success with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Asia. In addition to providing instruction in Academic and Technical Communications, she is also primarily in charge of the leadership and direction for the development and implementation of engagement, retention, diversity/inclusion and student success initiatives at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Asia.
A firm believer of global citizenry, Ms. Chua completed a United Nations University International Course in 2010 for UN Systems, Peace and Human Rights and collaborated with UN practitioners to propose suggestions on pressing global issues, including youth employability, gender equality, diversity and inclusion, and sustainable education through the achievement of the SDGs.
More recently, she received a full sponsorship from the East-West Center in the University of Hawaii to participate in the 18th run of the Asia Pacific Leadership Program where she had the opportunity to work on social innovation labs and learn from some of the world’s leading experts on adaptive leadership, crucial communications and human performance. Her own social innovation lab was exploring ways to encourage female participation in the Asian Aviation landscape.
As of April 2020, she has been selected to be part of the 2020 Cohort of IEP Ambassadors for Positive Peace.
For more information, please refer to her LinkedIn profile.
Courses Taught
- UNIV 101 - Student Success
- ENGL 123 - English Composition
Research Domain
- Best Practices in STEM Education and Promotion
- Gender, Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education, Leadership and Management
- Innovations in Higher Education Learning and Teaching
- Aviation Social Research
- Language Teaching and Pedagogy (ESL)
David Cirulli
Instructor
Education
- Master of Business Administration, Keller Graduate School of Management, US
- Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering, Pennsylvania State University
Biography
David Cirulli is the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Aeronautics Chief of Operations for the Department of Flight in Asia, academic faculty, and a UAS-certified remote pilot and UAS subject matter expert.
Prior to joining Embry-Riddle University, Mr. Cirulli was the Group Engineering Director of Kambyan Networks, a multinational Malaysia organization for the betterment of society with technology, where he humanised artificial intelligence through robotics process automation in field operations by connecting intelligent machines and applications in a complete Digital Twin Solution Platform for the Agro & Forestry Industry called MiDAgS™. As former Vice President and co-founder of CEMSol, a comprehensive, solutions-driven engineering and technical compan,y he pioneered the latest in airworthiness, regulatory and safety principles for small, medium-altitude long-endurance and high-altitude solar UAS. He has over 20 years’ experience in aviation and real-time engineering development, civil and military avionics systems, and FAA certifications.
Mr. Cirulli is a former Systems and Software Engineer at Honeywell Commercial Aviation Division. He spent more than 15 years in project management and in the development of both airborne and ground-based systems for commercial aviation. His systems and software fly in the most popular Boeing and Airbus commercial airlines, and he has participated in every major commercial aircraft development in the past two decades.
Mr. Cirulli served as Director of Programs at ENEA TekSci, where he completed the certification of electrical power distribution system for corporate jet marketplace and became a military avionics certification specialist using FAA DO-178B compliance. He is a professional trainer on the FAA standards for certification guidelines of both DO-178 software and DO-254 hardware. He has been involved with the FAA DER community over the past decade. As Programs Director at ENEA TekSci, he created the OSE design center, a selective product and services solution provider for the OSE operating system.
He specializes in compliance to high reliability and safety guidance standards for FAA, systems. He was verification lead on the RTCA SC-228 Detect and Avoid committee for Unmanned Systems. Most recently, he began his teaching profession with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University as a professor and UAS subject matter expert.
Courses Taught
- ASCI 202 - Introduction to Aeronautical Science
Research Domains/Interests
- Advanced System Diagnostics and Health Management
- Unmanned and Robotics System Process Automation
- UAS Systems Airworthiness and Software Safety
Matthew Flaherty
Adjunct Instructor, Vice Chancellor & Head of Asia
Education
- MBA in Aviation, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University — Daytona Beach, 2007
- B.S. Aerospace Studies, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University — Prescott, 2003
Biography
In his role as Vice Chancellor & Head of Asia, Matthew is responsible for providing leadership and strategic direction to expand the university’s presence in the Asia Pacific region while ensuring that the education and training programs are relevant, innovative, engaging and effective. He takes great pride in his continuous promotion of academic distinction and research productivity, building upon the international reputation of excellence held by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
As a student at Embry-Riddle’s Prescott, Arizona campus Matthew worked as a part-time campus tour guide and flight instructor, and later in the Office of International and Graduate Admissions after finishing his degree. He later accepted an opportunity to relocate to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where he was Head of Marketing and Admissions at Dubai Aerospace Enterprise Flight Academy and Director of Admissions at Michigan State University Dubai. Having spent over 20 years extensively traveling to nearly 75 countries throughout Asia, the Middle East, Africa and Europe, he has gained a cultural competency and understanding of educational systems from around the world.
Matthew holds an MBA in Aviation and a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Studies from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Daytona Beach and Prescott Arizona campuses. He teaches Aviation Legislation and Introduction to Aeronautics as an adjunct instructor in the College of Aeronautics. Matthew is a member of the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Asia Ltd. Board of Directors, and co-chairs the campus Industry Advisory Board. In April 2020, he was appointed to the Singapore Aviation Academy Advisory Board.
Matthew remains actively engaged in the aviation/aerospace industry and maintains currency on his FAA commercial pilot’s license and instructor rating. In his spare time, he enjoys cooking, entertaining and traveling, as well as caring for his two Shiba Inus, Rudder and Tango.
Dr. Benno Hoffman
Adjunct Assistant Professor
Education
- Ph.D. - Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Management and Decision Science: Leadership and Organizational Change, Walden University
- J.D. - Juris Doctor (Doctor of Jurisprudence) in German Law, University of Hamburg
- Certificate - "Money and Banking," Columbia University
- Certificate - "Money Markets," Yale University
- Certificate - "The Power of Macroeconomics," University of California, Irvine
Biography
From 1979 to 2007, Dr. Benno D. Hoffmann enjoyed his career with Hamburg Airport LLC, Germany. For more than 40 years, Dr. Hoffmann has been practicing law as an independent attorney at law. His professional experience during his entire career included solving judicial issues in and off the court, and negotiating labor issues with works councils and union representatives. For the last 10 years of his career with Hamburg Airport LLC, Dr. Hoffmann’s most challenging task involved restructuring the airport from a divisional company into a profit center-based group with 10 legally unbundled subsidiaries. He also had a role in partly privatizing Hamburg Airport LLC as an internal change agent, as well as founding, leading and restructuring two 100% subsidiaries of Hamburg Airport LLC as managing director. In the latter role, only shareholder and supervisory board prerogatives limited his power of discretion. Since April 2012, Dr. Hoffmann has taught graduate and undergraduate courses for Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Worldwide and the Asia Campus in Singapore as an adjunct assistant professor.
Research Domains/Interests
- TARGET2 Balances' Economic Implications for the Member States of the European Union
Ang Tiong Kiow
Adjunct Assistant Professor
Education
- Master of Aeronautical Science, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Biography
Mr. Ang works at The Boeing Company as a maintenance training instructor, tech lead engineer and lead practical assessor. He teaches the 737MAX Line and Base, GenFam, Airplane Practical and Fiber Optic courses. He is also a lead internal auditor and an examiner. For his 26 years in aviation, he spent 11 years in the Republic of Singapore Airforce (RSAF) teaching and maintaining the F16 Fighting Falcon. For the past 15 years, he has been working for The Boeing Company, involved in both the 737 and 787 programs.
He specializes in aeronautics and aviation/aerospace safety systems. He enjoys face-to-face and online teaching to a diversity of audiences.
Research Domains/Interest
- Methodology of Teaching
- Educational Development
Ben Koh
Adjunct Instructor
KOHC2@erau.eduEducation
- Master of Science in Supply Chain Management, National University of Singapore
Courses Taught
- MGMT 411 - Logistics Management for Aviation/Aerospace
Shankra Krishna
Adjunct Instructor
KISHNAS@erau.eduEducation
- Master of Science in Systems & Project Management, Nanyang Technological University, 2018
Biography
Shankra Krishna is a driven individual who has accumulated years of experience in aircraft engineering and project management in just a few years. His aviation career started at Singapore Airlines Engineering Company (SIAEC), where he carried out technical and project management duties for both SIAEC and customer aircraft. After four years at SIAEC, he moved on to become a Technical Services Engineer with Execujet Asia, a private aircraft management company that manages the private jets of high-net-worth individuals and corporations. By night, however, he turns from practical tasks to teaching theory as a lecturer at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He has strong ties to the educational establishment, having done his undergraduate Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics degree with ERAU. After the completion of his undergraduate degree, Shankra completed a master’s degree in Systems and Project Management at Nanyang Technological University (NTU). He takes pride in continuously looking to improve himself, with the firm belief that learning never ends.
Courses Taught
- MGMT 420 - Management of Production and Operations
- MGMT 436 - Strategic Management
Dr. Koh Pak Keng
Adjunct Assistant Professor
KOHP@erau.eduEducation
- Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 2016
- Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 2000
- Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 1998
Biography
Dr. Koh Pak Keng is currently the Director of ECK Pte Ltd, a company that specializes in providing cold spray equipment and services. Dr. Koh is also a registered management consultant under the Enterprise Singapore Consultant Quality Initiative framework and acts as a consultant for numerous companies seeking AS9100 Quality Management System and Nadcap special process certification, specifically in the areas of thermal spray, chemical processing and heat treatment. Concurrently, Dr. Koh is a content developer and examination writer for Performance Review Institute (PRI), which administers the PRI Qualification training programs and Nadcap special process certification.
Prior to joining ECK Pte Ltd, Dr. Koh was the Head of the Aerospace Cluster at the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS), overseeing three undergraduate aerospace programs, namely the Bachelor of Engineering Aerospace Systems, Bachelor of Science in Aviation Maintenance and Bachelor of Science in Aviation Business Administration.
Before joining the SUSS, Dr. Koh served as a design engineer for General Electric Aviation with Federal Aviation Authority-Designated Engineering Representative (FAA-DER) authorization and hardware ownership of aircraft engine structural components, and subsequently, as the plant manager of a local enterprise, ADCT Technologies Pte Ltd, which offers plasma spray, electric arc spray coatings, anodizing and chemical cleaning services.
Dr. Koh enjoys spending time outdoors with his three children. In his spare time, he reads, runs and swims.
Research Domains
- Thermal (cold) spray coatings
Dr. Glenn Lee
Adjunct Assistant Professor
Education
- Ph.D. - Doctor of Philosophy in Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering, University of Birmingham
- M.B.A. - Master of Business Administration, University of Birmingham
Biography
Renowned for my mechanical engineering, material science, lean and business transformation abilities, I have also cultivated strong L&D, HR knowledge and applications over my 23 years of work career.
Present Career
- Strategic advisor for IT and consulting company
Past Career
- VP, People & Transformation Solutions, IT firm
- General Manager, Forensic company
- Engineering Manager, Aerospace company
Career Highlights
- Designed and executed an organization's three-year roadmap to change and improve all the departments' work processes, corporate culture and behavior change with the objective to drive efficiency and productivity to achieve a four-day work week.
- Productivity and HRM improvement, saving more than $20 million through lean integration and scheduling (Oyu Tolgoi mining).
- Developed and implement several business transformation initiatives and HRM techniques to attain commercial values (Proudfoot for clients: Cobham, PG Technologies, California Diaries, Jardines Cycle & Carriage, Rio Tinto Oyu Tolgoi, Mauser, Hong Kong MTR).
- Responsible in the setup of new 50,000 sqft forensic facility (Matcor Aerospace).
- More than 50 projects of productivity improvement and growth initiatives (Oil States Ind., over 300% cost saving and productivity)
- Developed full repair capabilities for aerospace and oilfield products, which led to $8 million total annual growth (Asian Surface Technologies).
- Five patents and nine journal/conference publications (Pratt & Whitney, Rolls-Royce & University of Birmingham, UK)
- Publication of five books on leadership and branding (all rated Amazon Top 10 Best Sellers)
David Lim Guan Leng
Adjunct Assistant Professor
Education
- Master of Aeronautical Science, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, 2015
Biography
David’s background in aviation includes 18 years as a military pilot in the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). David served as the Commanding Officer of an AH-64D squadron in his last appointment in the Air Force. He was rated on several other helicopter types, including the UH-1H and EC 120.
David served as a pilot in SilkAir (Singapore) and subsequently Pacific Airlines (Vietnam). In his time with SilkAir, he was an elected representative for the Air Line Pilots Association of Singapore (ALPA-S), where he worked on safety management and pilot representation. He is a Certified Flying Instructor and holds Airline Transport Pilot licenses with Singapore, Vietnam and USA.
In 2017, he co-founded an air evacuation company, Kestrel Aero, based in Singapore. He currently advises the company on strategy.
David holds a bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a Master of Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He is an adjunct professor teaching undergraduate courses in aeronautical science and management. He is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in Aviation (Safety and Human Factors). His research interests include data envelopment analysis, machine learning and simulation.
Dr. Lim Leng Leng
Adjunct Assistant Professor
Education
- Doctor of Philosophy, Mathematics, Massey University, 2006
- Master of Science, Mathematics, University of Canterbury, 2001
Biography
Leng Leng holds a Ph.D. in Mathematics from Massey University in New Zealand. She has previously worked and taught in Australia, China, New Zealand, Singapore and Taiwan. Having been educated and taught in Singapore and overseas gives her the privilege to explore learning and teaching in the east and west. Leng Leng's overseas experiences have further inspired her passion for mathematics teaching and learning. Her background and experience in mathematics and education research have helped her greatly in teaching and learning. She enjoys working in a diverse environment.
Dr. Hazik Mohamed
Adjunct Faculty
Education
- Doctor of Philosophy in Islamic Finance, International Centre for Education in Islamic Finance
- Master of Science in Finance, CUNY Baruch College
Biography
Dr. Hazik Mohamed is an independent consultant who has worked on an array of consulting projects for SMEs as well as multilateral organizations such as ASEAN Secretariat, national financial offices and the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF).
He is also active in advisory and co-founder roles in projects and start-ups that drive financial inclusion and sustainable development by using new technology for improved socio-economic innovation.
He has taught previously at the Putra Business School (Malaysia) in Economics and Finance for its MBA program, and at the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) for its undergraduate program.
Dr. Hazik is an avid mountain biker and can often be spotted on the trails around the island on the weekends.
Research Domains/Interests
- Behavioral Economics and Its Applications
- Financial Technologies (AI, Blockchain, IoT)
- Sustainability and the Green Economy
Ajish Morris
Adjunct Instructor
Education
- Master of Science in Marketing and Consumer Insight, Nanyang Technological University
- Master of Science in Management, Singapore Management University
Biography
Mr. Morris has over two decades of experience managing businesses and leading people in consumer goods, travel and logistics industries in the Asia-Pacific region. He is currently Chief Operating Officer at Qurio Group, a vertically integrated brand incubator and investment group founded and led by a team of CPG veterans, scientists and venture capitalists. Prior to joining Qurio, he held regional leadership positions at Jetstar Airways and country leadership positions at the full-service and low-cost units of Singapore Airlines. He is also an Associate Faculty at the Singapore Institute of Technology, where he leads undergraduate learning tracks in Strategic Management and Operations Management.
Research Domains/Interests
- Marketing Management
- Customer Relationship Management
- Marketing New Products
- New Venture Creation
Dr. Rajee Olaganathan
Adjunct Assistant Professor
Education
- Ph.D. in Environment Biotechnology and Microbiology, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, 2008
- Master of Science in Aeronautics (Safety & Management Specialization), Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Worldwide, 2019
- Master of Philosophy in Coastal Aquaculture, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, 1997
- Master of Science in Environmental Biotechnology, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, 1996
Biography
Dr. Rajee Olaganathan is an aeronautical scientist and environmental biotechnologist with over 20 years of combined research and teaching experience in higher education. She joined Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Worldwide in 2014. Previously, she had worked at esteemed institutions such as the National University of Singapore, James Cook University and the University of Nevada - Las Vegas. She holds the distinguished status of a Fellow Member of the Royal Aeronautical Society, United Kingdom.
Dr. Rajee's expertise extends beyond academia. She has designed and developed two professional educational programs for Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Asia, namely, Airport Wildlife Management and Airport Wildlife Operations, which is offered by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) as its TRAINAIR Plus programs. Since 2019, Dr. Rajee has provided training for these courses, equipping aviation professionals with essential knowledge in managing wildlife-related challenges at airports.
Dr. Rajee has been appointed as a guest lecturer (external) by the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS). In this capacity, she has been entrusted with developing and delivering a thought-provoking module on "Sustainable Aviation" for the Civil Aviation Management Programme: Developing an Air Hub course. Her industry involvement extends further, as she currently serves as a director for multiple small and medium enterprises in Asia that specialize in avionics sales and services. Her valuable expertise and strategic guidance significantly contribute to the growth and success of these aviation sector businesses.
Throughout her illustrious career, Dr. Rajee has pursued interdisciplinary research and teaching, striving to find practical solutions to aeronautical and environmental challenges. Her exceptional contributions have been widely recognized, with 34 published research papers and 12 conference presentations to her credit. Notably, she has made valuable contributions to understanding the impact of the global pandemic, with two research publications specifically addressing COVID-19. These papers have gained significant media attention, leading to interviews by renowned outlets such as Bloomberg News, where she discussed her research findings on the "Impact of COVID-19 on Pilot Proficiency - A Risk Analysis." Furthermore, her research paper titled "Impact of COVID-19 on the Airline Industry and Strategic Plan for Its Recovery With Special Reference to Data Analytics Technology" has garnered attention from media outlets across the UK, Europe, Asia and Africa.
Dr. Rajee's dedication to the advancement of scientific knowledge is further exemplified by her role as an editorial member and peer-review panel member for numerous international peer-reviewed journals. She has meticulously evaluated over 85 research papers submitted to various international publications, contributing to the scholarly discourse within her field.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dr. Rajee embodies a global perspective. She was born and raised in India, resided in Singapore for a decade, and relocated to the United States eight years ago. She is a senior member of the Civil Air Patrol, a U.S. Air Force Auxiliary Organization, where she serves as an assistant aerospace education officer and actively participates in aerospace education and cadet programs. Driven by her commitment to personal growth, she continuously strives for self-improvement and considers herself a lifelong learner.
In her leisure time, Dr. Rajee indulges in her passions, including traveling, appreciating music, and cherishing moments with her son and husband. A testament to her diverse interests is the recent achievement of her Level 1 Instructor Certification from U.S.A. Archery, demonstrating her dedication to mastering new skills and embracing new experiences.
Courses Taught
- SFTY 320 - Human Factors in Aviation Safety
- ASCI 202 - Introduction to Aeronautical Science
- RSCH 202 - Research Methods
- PHYS 142 - Introduction to Environmental Sciences
- PHYS 102 - Explorations in Physics
- SAW 1000 - Airport Wildlife Management
Courses Approved to Teach
- MSHF 640 - Human Physiology and Adaptation
Research Focus
Dr. Rajee's research endeavors encompass a diverse range of interdisciplinary areas, each contributing to a deeper understanding and advancement of key fields. Her research focus includes: Impacts of Current Events on the Aviation Industry, Aviation Safety Management, Human Factors in Aviation, Sustainable Aviation Fuel, Occupational Safety and Health Hazards, Aviation and Environmental Sustainability, Food Production for Earth and Mars (Aquaculture), Water Technology/Treatment, Environmental Microbiology, Biotechnology and Pollution.
Alicia Ong
Adjunct Instructor
ONGA1@erau.eduEducation
- Master of Science in Transportation Systems and Management, National University of Singapore, 2011
Biography
Alicia is a highly accomplished professional with relevant academic qualifications in aviation management, which include airline operations, airport planning and management, and aviation safety and security. Apart from her academic qualifications, she is also a qualified ex-air traffic controller with first-hand experience in air traffic management and airport operations. She is capable of developing, managing and delivering quality aviation management curriculum that enhances educational experience and industry relevance.
As an excellent communicator who can relate well to individuals and groups, it helps Alicia teach and mentor effectively. She is a dynamic individual who is capable of meeting goals and target, and is also a good team player who can work effectively in a group environment.
Alicia's good network with the aviation industry and universities helps her form potential industrial design and research project collaborations.
Courses Taught
- ASCI 301 - Introduction to Air Traffic Control
- ASCI 433 - Aviation Logistics and Supply Chain Management
- BSAB 410 - Management of Air Cargo
- BSAB 425 - Trends and Current Problems in Air Transportation
- BSAB 426 - International Aviation Management
Gerard Ortega
Adjunct Instructor
ORTEGAG1@erau.eduEducation
- Diploma in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), London Teacher Training College, 2016
- Advanced Certificate in Training and Assessment, Institute of Adult Learning, Singapore Workforce Development Agency, 2015
- Learning & Development Foundation Course, Civil Service College, 2014
- 7th USP-Piper Introductory Creative Writing Course, University Scholars Programme and Virginia G. Piper Center for Creative Writing, Arizona State University, 2012
- Master of Arts in Literary Studies with English Language, National University of Singapore, 2012
- Curriculum and Assessment, Senior Secondary Assessment Board of South Australia, University of South Australia, and Singapore Examinations and Assessment Board, 2007
Biography
Gerard James Ortega began his career with Singapore’s Ministry of Education and its examination board, where he handled linguistic assessment for national examinations and collaborated with the UK’s University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate on the Singapore-Cambridge Ordinary-Level and Advanced-Level examinations. After that, Gerard ventured into public relations, first working as a public relations consultant with a creative agency and then managing corporate communications and media relations for both the National Arts Council and Civil Service College. In the latter, Gerard also went on to assume learning and development responsibilities, and curated communication courses for government officers.
Building on this rich professional experience in education and communication, Gerard chose to teach English at different language schools before becoming the Training & Development Manager and Head of English at English Express, Crystal Learning. There, Gerard taught workplace English and business communication, and he constantly explored new ways to fine-tune the classroom experience and refresh the curricula. While at Crystal Learning, Gerard delivered customized workplace English programs to clients such as NTUC Club, Revlon and Dai-ichi. He also created tailored content for individual corporate learners from Johnson & Johnson and Nike to enrich his lessons with them.
Currently an adjunct English instructor for Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Asia and Worldwide, Gerard teaches both face-to-face and online freshmen composition courses. He is likewise a part-time instructor at the National University of Singapore’s Centre for English Language Communication, where he teaches academic English, technical writing and presentation skills. In addition, Gerard works with corporate clients such as IKEA and Civil Service College to upskill their staff in workplace communication.
Gerard is fascinated by the multifaceted nature of communication and amazing plurality that English finds expression internationally. This undoubtedly makes Gerard a fan of the intriguing and ever-evolving realm of sociolinguistics.
Courses Taught
- ENGL 123 - English Composition
- ENGL 106 - Introduction to Composition
Dr. Jeetendra (Jack) Patel
Assistant Professor & Academic Officer
patelj15@erau.eduEducation
Dr. Jack Patel has attained a bachelor’s degree (B.Sc. Economics from UCL, London); a post-graduate diploma in Education (PGCE Business and Economics Education from UCL Institute of Education, London); a master's degree (M.Sc. Economics and Finance from University of Bristol); and an Ed.D (Doctor in Education from UCL Institute of Education, London).Awards and Experience
Jack initially joined ERAU Asia in Singapore as a full-time instructor in 2015 and is currently serving as Academic Officer and Associate Professor. At ERAU Asia, he teaches courses in the domain of social sciences such as Microeconomics (ECON 210), Macroeconomics (ECON211) and Introduction to Sociology (SOCI 210), and guides interns through Co-Operative Education (COIN 496).
Prior to joining ERAU Asia, Jack led departments and taught classes at primary, secondary and tertiary institutions in five countries. This includes a secondary school in London (UK), a private school in Osaka (Japan), an international school in Dubai (UAE), a polytechnic in Bahrain and a private school in Singapore. Jack is actively involved in research projects and remains active whether as a presenter, moderator or chair at international conferences, including Redesigning Pedagogy, EduCon, APATS and AviAsian.
In recognition of his work, Jack has received ERAU Asia Professor of the Year awards (in 2017, 2018 and 2022) and an award for Excellence in Educational Leadership (in 2016) from the World Education Congress (WEC).
Courses Taught
- ECON 210 – Microeconomics
- ECON 211 – Macroeconomics
- BSAB 418 – Airport Administration and Finance
- SOCI 210 – Introduction to Sociology
Research Domain
- Innovative curriculum and instructional design
- Best practices in andragogy
- Evidence-based, applied aviation economics
Dr. Hamid Saeedipour
Adjunct Faculty
Education
- Doctor of Philosophy in Aerospace Engineering, University of Manchester, 1999
- Master of Science in Aeronautical Engineering, University of Manchester, 1993
- Post-Graduate Certificate in International Business, Manchester Business School, 2000
- Post-Graduate Certificate in Banking & Finance, Manchester Business School, 2000
- Flight Certificate in Experimental Flight Mechanics, Cranfield University, 1996 & 1998
Biography
Hamid received his Ph.D. and M.Sc. in Aerospace Engineering from Manchester University/UK, B.Eng. (1st class honors) in Mechanical Engineering from Tehran University, MBS Post-Graduate Certificates in International Business & Finance from Manchester Business School/UK, and a French Diploma from CAVILAM/France
Hamid is Principal Lecturer (Industry) – IPS11 at the School of Engineering, Republic Polytechnic. He has seven years of working experience in the aircraft industry and 18 years at higher education institutes. He has been associate dean, deputy director, aircraft designer and lecturer in the UK, Iran, Malaysia and Singapore in the last 28 years. He supervised final projects of over 20 Ph.D./M.S.c, 80 B.Sc. and 140 diploma graduates at nine universities and polytechnics.
After residing in the UK for 10 years, Hamid came to Malaysia in October 2003 to be a lecturer at the University of Science Malaysia (USM) for three years. He was appointed as Deputy Director in Avcen Limited UK/Malaysia in 2006-2009 and had 18-month research collaborations with Cambridge University and Imperial College/UK in air-taxi design, fabrication and composite materials. He was Associate Dean of the American Degree Transfer Program at Taylor’s University/College in Kuala Lumpur before coming to Singapore on Feb 2011 to join Republic Polytechnic as Senior Academic Staff. He has been Adjunct Faculty and External Supervisor for the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT), UK’s Newcastle University and the University of Glasgow in Singapore since 2012.
Hamid is the Principal Investigator (PI) of several funded industry-application projects in Smart MRO systems and composite repair and leading research teams, and BSc/PhD students in cooperation with universities.
With the support and contributions from the research team, management and colleagues at Republic Polytechnic’s School of Engineering, Hamid received several awards. For example, the Most Innovative Project Award from JEC Group (France) in 2015, conferred the Crescendas Medal for Outstanding Applied Physics Research from the Institute of Physics Singapore (IPS) in 2017, Outstanding Innovator Award 2018 from the Ministry of Education and PST ExCEL Innovation Champion Award from Public Service Division (PSD) in 2018. He wrote two chapters in two technical books and was profiled in the new edition of the book, “Who’s Who in Engineering, Singapore” by The Institution of Engineers, Singapore (IES) on 21 Nov 2020. He received the Prestigious Engineering Achievement Award 2021 from the Institution of Engineers, Singapore (IES) in the category "Applied Research and Development" on 11 Nov 2021.
Hamid has a total of 103 publications and conference papers together with his research team in the fields of aircraft design, aerospace/aviation safety systems, aircraft composite repair, MRO smart systems, aviation management and engineering education.
Hamid is a Singaporean citizen who enjoys spending time with his family and having an active lifestyle. In his spare time, he likes to play table tennis, swim, bowl, play chess, watch football, and enjoy Latin music, culture and entertainment.
Research Domains
- Aircraft design for safety
- Design and development of smart aerospace/aviation systems
- In-situ healing methods for composite aero structure repair
- Low-cost twin-jet transport aircraft design
- Thrust-vectoring technology development
- Aerodynamic design and performance
- QV/STOL aircraft design and fabrication
- Flight performance optimization
- Crash-proof unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) systems
- Composite fabrication and assembly
- Aviation market analysis and forecasting
- Low-cost carrier (LCC) in air transportation
- Aircraft direct operating cost (DOC) analysis
- Wind-tunnel design, testing and calibration
- Vectored propulsion using asymmetric nozzles
- Lift augmentation techniques
- Drag reduction techniques
Er. Dr. Pang Teng Seng
Adjunct Faculty
Education
- Diploma in Adult and Continuing Education (DACE), 2017
- Advanced Certificate in Training and Assessment (ACTA), 2016
- Doctor of Philosophy in Electrical & Electronic Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 2011
- Bachelor in Electrical & Electronic Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 2004
Biography
Er. Dr. Pang Teng Seng is currently the Power Systems Scientist at Singapore-ETH Centre (SEC), an entity that was established as a collaboration between ETH Zurich and the National Research Foundation (NRF) of Singapore, addressing issues related to global environmental sustainability. In addition, he is a registered Electrical Professional Engineer under the Professional Engineers Board of Singapore (PEB). As a registered Singapore Certified Energy Manager (SCEM), he provides consultation to the Sustainable Energy Association of Singapore (SEAS) in the development of the core SCEM modules and provides training to aspiring SCEMs.
Er. Dr. Pang has been an adjunct lecturer since 2017 and has taught at Singapore Polytechnic (SP), Building and Construction Authority Academy (BCAA), PSB Academy, Dimensions International College and Singapore Institute of Power and Gas Pte Ltd (SIPG). The following are the topics taught to date:
- Electricity Overview, Acts and Regulations (SP)
- Computer Methods in Power System Analysis (SP)
- Power System Analysis (SP)
- Power Transmission and Distribution (SP)
- Electrical Installation Design (SP)
- Electrical Power Distribution & Installation (BCAA)
- Electrical Machines (BCAA)
- Electrical Circuit Analysis (BCAA)
- Power Systems (PSB)
- Industrial Communications Engineering (Dimensions)
- Overview of Power Generation Plants (SIPG)
- Power Plant Efficiency (SIPG)
- Power Plant Reliability (SIPG)
- Power Plants Maintenance Principles & Strategies (SIPG)
- Process Control & Monitoring of Power & Process Plants (SIPG)
As a content developer, Er. Dr. Pang also designed and developed technical in-house e-learning training modules for his previous company on the following topics:
- Overview of Singapore Power System
- Monitoring and Control of Generation
- Singapore Wholesale Electricity Market
- Transmission Network Operation
- Combined Cycle Power Plant Operation
- Power Transmission System - Equipment & Protections
- Operation and Maintenance of Generator
- 5S Methodology - Seiri, Seiton, Seisō, Seiketsu and Shitsuke
- Work in a Team
Er. Dr. Pang is also a registered coach under the National Registry of Coaches (NROC). During his free time, he conducts kayaking courses at People’s Association Water-Venture outlets.
Dr. Somi Shin
Assistant Professor
SHINS8@erau.eduEducation
- Doctor of Philosophy in Economics, Massey University, 2014
- Master of Management in Financial Economics, Massey University, 2008
- Bachelor of Arts in English Education, Seoul National University, 2003
Biography
Dr. Somi Shin is an economist, researcher and instructor at ERAU Asia who loves working with students as well as conducting research. Although her area of specialization is economics, she enjoys collaborating with experts from other disciplines for applied research.
Dr. Shin has published her work in such leading journals as Health Economics (ABDC ranking: A*). Her doctoral dissertation was chosen as one of the outstanding dissertations at Massey University and featured in New Zealand media, such as NewsTalk ZB, a radio station and Manawatu Standard, a regional newspaper. Dr. Shin also received the Best Presentation and Discussion by Young Econometrician Award at the 24th New Zealand Econometric Study Group Meeting.
Dr. Shin worked at universities in Singapore and New Zealand, teaching courses including macroeconomics, microeconomics and research methodology. She believes that the university should not be the ivory tower and tries to bring the real world to the classroom. She was a recipient of the Faculty Appreciation Award in 2019 at ERAU Asia.
Dr. Shin considers herself a citizen of the world, as she was born in Germany, raised in Korea and lived in New Zealand for 10 years before moving to Singapore six years ago. In her spare time, she likes to play with her two-year-old baby girl and 11-year-old dog.
Courses Taught
- ECON 210 - Microeconomics
- ECON 211 - Macroeconomics
- RSCH 202 - Introduction to Research Methodology
Research Domains
- Applied microeconomics
- Health economics
Shiva Venkatraman
Adjunct Instructor
VENKATS3@erau.eduEducation
- Master of Business Administration, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, US
- Master of Science in Industrial Engineering, Purdue University
Biography
Shiva is an Entrepreneurial Business Growth Leader, Board Member and Executive Advisor to boards, with experience in providing strategic direction in incubating and scaling technology/internet/telecom businesses from $0>$B. He also has non-profit Board Member experience. He is a startup mentor/coach and runs a venture growth consulting firm called Varidus in Singapore after spending 25 years in large firms like HPE, Microsoft, Fujitsu and smaller venture-backed technology startups. Shiva loves the aviation industry and spent his initial career in a think tank department of a leading Global Airline and consulted on Digital Transformation and Innovation with leading Asian Airlines. Shiva is a member of the Singapore Institute of Directors.
As an adjunct faculty, Shiva has taught at many leading global universities and venture accelerators on topics like Entrepreneurship, Sales, Marketing, Leadership, Culture, Digital Transformation, Analytics and Information Systems.
Courses Taught
- CSCI 109 - Introduction to Computers and Applications
- MGMT 221 - Management Information Systems
- Introduction to Entrepreneurship
Dr. Matthew Yap
Adjunct Faculty
Education
- Ph.D. (Candidate) in Aviation Business Administration, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
- Ph.D. in Practice Research, Central Queensland University
- Master's of Business Administration, University of Nottingham
Biography
Dr. Matthew Yap is the Country Director for Cyber Defense (Asia), responsible for cybersecurity training and cybersecurity conferences in Singapore and Malaysia. He is also the Cybersecurity Programme Advisor for Police Administration to Digital Age (PADA), Thailand. As an International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and International Maritime Organisation (IMO) consultant, Dr. Yap is engaged by ICAO and IMO for training delivery and design of guidance materials for Appropriate Authority (AA) and Designated Authority (DA) of the contracting state. Dr. Yap completed the ICAO - ACI Airport Safety Professional (ASP) certification in 2021 and the Airport Management Professional Accreditation Programme (AMPAP) in 2019. He is also certified as an ICAO AVSEC Program Manager (PM), ICAO National (Airport) and Aerodrome Inspector, and an ICAO Safety Management System Practitioner. From 2015 to 2021, he served as aerodrome safety and security advisor to three SGD$1 billion dollar construction consortiums awarded for Changi Airport Terminal 5 construction.
Dr. Yap last held the position of Deputy Commander of the Airport Auxiliary Police in 2007 and commanded over 1,000 armed police officers and security screening officers at all Singapore Changi airport and cargo terminals. In 2008, he established his security consulting service provider, and in 2016, he joined a Singapore Stock Exchange-listed corporation as a subsidiary. Dr. Yap is a chartered engineer (Aerospace) by the Institute of Engineering Singapore (IES). He has a doctorate (CQU), MBA (Nottingham), B.Eng.Hons (Singapore) and LL.B.Hons (London). He is currently pursuing his second Ph.D. (Aviation Business Administration) at Embry-Riddle. In 2022, Dr. Yap published his book, "Sun Tzu Art of War: 30 Ways to Transform," and discussed his experiences of cybersecurity breaches in Singapore and how his construction clients overcame cybersecurity threats and ransomware.
Research Domains/Interest
- Air Cargo and Last-Mile Delivery Transportation Modes
- Aviation Law and Cybersecurity
Dr. Lim Boon Yeow
Adjunct Professor
limb2@erau.eduEducation
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Management, University of Queensland (Australia), 1997
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) in General Management, University of Hull (UK), 1992
Biography
Dr. Lim Boon Yeow is the Founder/Group Chairman of CESAR Group Pte Ltd, which is a holding company for investment and portfolio management since 1998. He was the Adjunct Professor of Management at the University of Canberra from 2003 to 2009. Aside from these, he was also appointed as the Honorary Adviser to a statuary division in the Ministry of Commerce, People's Republic of China, from 2008 to 2011.
Currently, Dr. Lim is the Executive President of the Association of Certified Strategic Auditors, an official partner of the United Nations Sustainable Develop Goals #SGD Action 34005. He holds the role of Research Chair for the Center for Enterprises Strategic Auditing Research, using an evidence-based practice approach in auditing, researching, interpreting and drawing conclusions about the soundness and competitive position of firms in different industries. Dr. Lim also serves as an Adjunct Professor at the College of Business at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (Worldwide and Asia), which he joined in 2012.
Dr. Lim publishes widely, with his papers having been accepted by many journals and conferences in areas of corporate governance, entrepreneurship and innovation, and system thinking. In addition, he has been involved in course development for various universities at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Courses Taught
- MGMT 201 - Principles of Management
- MGMT 314 - Human Resources Management
- MGMT 317 - Organizational Behavior
- MGMT 371 - Leadership
- MGMT 436 - Strategic Management
Professional Education and Training Program
- Corporate Strategic Auditing: Formulating Ethical Sustainable Business Strategy in the Aviation Industry
Research Domains
Corporate Governance Paradigm: Agency Theory, Dependence Theory, Transaction Cost Economics Theory, Stakeholder-Agency Theory, Instrumental Stakeholder Theory, Traditional Stewardship Theory, Corporate Social Performance Theory, Corporate Social Responsibility Theory, Integrative Social Contract Theory, Modern Stewardship Theory, Resource-Based Theory and Normative Stakeholder Theory (value creation, strategy and implementation; auditing, managing risks and performance; board involvement process; remuneration at the top; investors, stakeholders and accountability; women on boards; global corporate governance; corporate governance for private firms; corporate governance ethics).
Entrepreneurship and Innovation Paradigm: Entrepreneurial and Sociological Theories, Innovation and Schumpeter’s Theories, Incremental vs. Radical Innovation, Henderson-Clark Model, S-Curves; Teece Model, Abernathy-Utterback Model and Disruptive Innovation (entrepreneurial mind; entrepreneurial process; personal traits - values, attitudes, believes and expectations; entrepreneurial performance; innovation process models and their implications).
System Thinking: General Systems Theory, Cybernetics, Hard Systems Model of Change, Stafford Beer’s Viable System Model, Peter Checkland’s Soft Systems Methodology and System Metaphors (forensics corporate governance system approach; human activity systems; social-ecological systems; enterprise resource planning systems; epistemological belief system).
Contact Us
Singapore, 229833