Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Opens New Campus at USAG FOS Powidz
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide U.S. Military Europe Europe Campuses supported the grand opening of the Education Center in Powidz by launching its newest Europe location at U.S. Army Garrison (USAG) Forward Operating Site (FOS) Powidz, Poland on April 15, 2026. The commemorative event celebrated Embry-Riddle’s first location in Poland as well as its continued commitment to serving U.S. servicemembers and their families overseas.
The presence of U.S. forces in Central and Eastern Europe has grown in recent years, and USAG Poland is celebrating its third anniversary this year. Embry-Riddle has established the Powidz Campus as part of its continuing commitment to U.S. service members and responsiveness to their evolving educational needs and locations. Located in Powidz, our new campus supports U.S. service members deployed in Powidz and at numerous other sites across Poland.
The invitation to establish a formal campus presence in Poland followed extensive collaboration with the Education Services Officer, Majella Lanham, to determine academic needs that support the installation’s mission. Embry-Riddle’s specialized programs in aeronautics, aviation maintenance, aviation business administration, engineering, logistics & supply chain management, and technical management align directly with the professional development goals of servicemembers assigned to U.S. installations across Poland. The campus is positioned to provide flexible, industry-relevant degree pathways that enhance readiness and long-term career success.
Local leadership emphasized the value of expanding academic opportunities within the community, noting that access to high-quality aviation and uncrewed systems education strengthens both individual servicemember advancement and overall mission effectiveness. Chuck Ashley, Powidz Campus Director and retired U.S. Foreign Service Officer, has worked extensively to connect with the U.S. military communities at FOS Powidz and the USAG Poland headquarters in Poznan. He also collaborates closely with the Education Centers at both locations and with partner college under the European Tri-Services Contract for Post-Secondary Education Services, University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC), to ensure a seamless and supportive student experience.
During the grand opening, Colonel Jeremy McHugh, Commander of the U.S. Army Garrison Poland, and Majella Lanham welcomed distinguished guests to the ribbon cutting event showcasing the education center and its two partner schools.
“Today we mark the opening of our second education center in Poland, along with two academic centers for UMGC and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. This achievement reflects our shared commitment to providing soldiers and families with meaningful educational opportunities while serving abroad,” stated Lanham. “For our soldiers, this facility represents more than a place to study. It is a resource for guidance, growth, and professional advancement — one that strengthens the entire Powidz community.”
The opening of the Powidz Campus also holds special significance within a broader context of Embry-Riddle’s dedication to education within Europe.
“In 2023, ERAU proudly celebrated 50 years of supporting military members and their families with quality academic opportunities throughout Europe. The opening of this campus reflects the growing demand for relevant STEM programs to further enhance our future aviation industry leaders,” said Nancy Tran-Horne, director of Military Relations.
This year also marks Embry-Riddle's centennial anniversary, and a century of leadership in aviation and aerospace education.
“As Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University celebrates its centennial year, the expansion of our presence in Europe reflects our continued commitment to serving those who serve,” said Jim Pepin, vice chancellor of Student Success. “The opening of the Powidz Campus strengthens our partnership with U.S. military communities in Poland and reinforces our mission to deliver high-quality, mission-relevant aviation and aerospace education wherever our servicemembers are stationed.”
“We are very excited to expand our global footprint into Poland,” said Dr. John Watret, chancellor for Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide. “To have the opportunity to provide innovative, research-driven education to the service men and women at Powdiz USAG FOS is an honor. As the leader in higher education for providing online programs to the military, as named by the 2026-2027 Military Friendly Schools rankings, we understand the unique demands our service members face, and we are proud to help them achieve their academic goals while balancing military duty and other responsibilities.”