UC student aims to be pilot and problem solver

With goals of becoming a test pilot, University of Cincinnati student Athan Abuyuan is eager to fly the newest aircraft.

As a future aerospace engineer, Abuyuan is deeply invested in the technologies that make those craft function safely and efficiently.

Abuyuan, a cadet in the UC detachment of U.S. Air Force ROTC, doesn’t just have the “need for speed.” Abuyuan (aerospace engineering, ’21) hopes to optimize aircraft communication and handling for fellow pilots.

The technical intricacy of his interest is clear.

“I want to improve how different systems ‘talk’ with each other, the interface between the pilot and the machine, how the pilot inputs commands and the way the aircraft executes them,” he says.

Abuyuan is currently on his second co-op rotation at TECT Power in Utica, New York, which manufactures parts for aircraft engines such as fan and turbine blades. Some of TECT’s larger clients include General Electric, Pratt & Whitney and Rolls Royce.

At an engine part manufacturer, Abuyuan is further down the aerospace supply chain than his ultimate goal in the cockpit. His co-op supervisor at TECT Power, Timothy McDonough, has helped him acclimate to the manufacturing environment and develop transferable skills he can take to his next position.

“Tim talks me through the bigger picture,” Abuyuan says. “He teaches me about manufacturing using concepts I can relate to.”

Intimate knowledge of engine components and construction could someday help Abuyuan pinpoint a functional limitation in an aerospace system.

Exploring different areas of engineering has helped Abuyuan commit to aircraft testing for now. He would love to contribute to the aerospace industry by piloting fighter jets, but one of Abuyuan’s long-term ambitions is to become an astronaut through the Air Force.

He hopes to earn a master’s and possibly a doctorate degree, but he is happy to keep his mind and options open.

"Who knows what mission I might have an opportunity to join in the future? Who knows what problems will need to be debugged or what programs will need to be optimized in a few years?” Abuyuan says.

Reflecting on his journey thus far, Abuyuan is thankful for the opportunities he has found through the ROTC program.

“Through my time at UC, ROTC has helped me to grow as a person the most — helped me figure out the direction I want my life to take. It has opened doors for me that I never thought would be possible,” he says. “The UC ROTC officers are outstanding people who offer experience and insight we can tap into. It is important to have someone who understands the track that we are on, as cadets and college students. The people I have met will be resources throughout my life.”

For fellow cadet Margaret Miller, the appreciation is mutual.

“He is a humble leader," she says. "His peers choose to follow him because of his work ethic, internal drive and positive attitude. I often turn to Athan when I need motivation because his mentality, passion and enthusiasm inspire me and the people around him."

For future aerospace engineering students, Abuyuan offers some advice.

“There is always work to do. Remember to keep up your momentum," he says. "Time management and planning are two important skills that will help you find success — as you learn or lead.”

Featured photo at top: UC student Athan Abuyuan (right) attends a Military Appreciation Night sporting event with fellow ROTC cadets. Photo/Provided