College of Aviation Spotlight: Dr. Bettina Mrusek

Dr. Bettina Mrusek has been an integral part of the Embry-Riddle community since 2014. As an Assistant Professor at the Worldwide College of Aviation, Dr. Mrusek imparts her expertise by teaching various aviation maintenance classes and serving as the  chair for the Department of Undergraduate Studies. She has published research in aviation maintenance, human factors, organizational leadership, orbital debris and uncrewed systems, and has extensive knowledge in and experience with human factors, aircraft maintenance and inspections, uncrewed aircraft systems and business management.

Before joining Embry-Riddle, Dr. Mrusek dedicated 14 years to the United States Marine Corps. During her service, she functioned as an avionics communication/navigation technician and supervisor, overseeing multiple aircraft platforms, including rotary and fixed-wing. Beyond her technical roles, she engaged in operational responsibilities, supervised the Mobile Maintenance Facility program and fulfilled a three-year term as a drill instructor on Parris Island. Her unique background equips her with comprehensive knowledge and experience in leadership, safety, preventive maintenance, inspections and general aviation.

Dr. Mrusek's academic accomplishments include a Bachelor of Science in Management and a Master of Science in Business Administration from Park University, as well as a Ph.D. in Business Administration with a specialization in Management from Northcentral University.

Q&A with Dr. Bettina Mrusek

How have your experiences in the Marines shaped the way you look at the aviation industry?

Serving in the Marine Corps not only gave me experience in aviation maintenance, it also taught me how to function effectively outside of my comfort zone. We are capable of so much more than we give ourselves credit for. Push your limits, learn from your mistakes and keep moving.

How do you maintain work-life balance?

Beyond my role as a professor, I am also a dedicated health coach. Through my personal journey, I've come to understand that prioritizing health is the cornerstone of unlocking one's fullest potential. To be the best version of myself at work, I have to prioritize my health. This means eating nutritiously, getting regular exercise and taking steps daily to work on mental health such as listening to sermons, meditating and maintaining a positive mindset. I firmly believe that by nurturing our well-being, we are better equipped to make meaningful contributions to the lives of those around us.

What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you?

When I was in the Marine Corps, I was stationed in Japan. During my time there, I had the opportunity to climb Mt. Fuji. It was tough, but absolutely worth it!

You were recently selected for an Administrative Fellow position. What does that entail and what does that mean to you?

I am honored to have been selected for the Administrative Fellow position, and I am enthusiastic about the significant responsibilities that come with it. In this role, my primary focus for the upcoming spring term will be collaborating closely with the Core Leadership Team to enhance the operational efficiency of our residential campuses. This will involve actively participating in leadership meetings dedicated to university operations.

Drawing on my 20 years of experience in aviation, complemented by my academic background in business, I am eager to merge these two skill sets in order to make meaningful contributions to the university. I am committed to leveraging my diverse expertise to bring about positive changes and improvements during my service as an Administrative Fellow. I look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead and am dedicated to upholding the high standards of excellence that this position demands.