Roger

I’m Roger Chen, and I joined SUIS Jiaoke as a Grade 10 student in 2011.

Graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University with a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Business Administration, concentrating in Fixed Wings Flight Operations; now working as a Flight instructor with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

I’m Roger Chen and I am currently a flight instructor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, the same university where I earned my Bachelor of Science degree. My major was Aviation Business Administration with a concentration in Fixed Wings Flight Operations.

Ever since I was a Grade 3 student I dreamt of being a pilot, soaring amongst the clouds. Fortunately, I was able to realize my dream with the help of numerous people in my life, like my parents, friends and teachers. Without their support, it would have been very hard for me to have achieved what I have today.

As a flight instructor, my primary responsibilities are to train student pilots to acquire basic flight skills and perform advanced maneuvers in flight operations. At the same time, I am teaching courses related to aviation such as Aerodynamics, Airspaces, Aircraft Systems, Meteorology, Navigation, Physics and Aviation Regulations. Every flight student is paired up with a flight instructor starting from day one of his/her flight training until the day he/she successfully obtains a pilot certificate.

Being a flight instructor is only my first career step. I am continuing to advance my career so that I can become an airline pilot traveling around the world.

I spent a most memorable three years with SUIS Jiaoke’s BC program. I not only acquired essential life skills, but also made friends for life. Even though we are far away from each other in different locations around the world, we are still able to hang out and keep in touch.

My high school counselor, Mr. Ted Corbould, really helped me regain my sense of direction when I was lost. He helped me realize how important it was to fight for my dream, and suggested that I attend an aviation summer camp in North America when I was in Grade 11. Because of that experience, I was able to take the first step towards being a pilot, something that I am still immensely enjoying today.

If you are currently on your way to obtaining your goal, please never give up. Darkness before the break of dawn is considered the darkest time during a 24-hour period, but if one can get through that darkness, the first hint of sunrise will be waiting right at the horizon, and it is the most gorgeous thing you will ever see.

To current students at SUIS, I would say that, no matter what your goal or dream is, please protect it. If you have a job that you enjoy, you will never have to work a day in your life. You are the best advocate for your future, not your parents, friends, or even your teachers.

Text image | Interview with Roger