Emily Blankenburg

I grew up in North Bend, Washington before moving to Phoenix, Arizona to pursue Bio-medical Engineering and Collegiate lacrosse before finding my way to Ellensburg. In September of 2022, I started as a dispatcher at Central Washington University Aviation. Other than experience with airshows, a family background in Aviation, and a love for the North American P-51 Mustang, I had little technical experience but a strong drive to learn. During my training, I spent office hours studying the Jeppesen Private Pilot Manual, building my foundational knowledge and confidence. Soon after, I had the chance to assist with revising our aircraft checklists by developing a Quick Reference Handbook (QRH). This project allowed me to demonstrate my capabilities, and I took a calculated and inquisitive approach, aiming to understand all aspects of the matter at hand and anticipate any issues that might arise.

In Fall of 2023, I was promoted to the role of Program Support Supervisor. In this role, I’ve worked to improve CWU’s aviation program significantly. I’ve served on the Aviation Department’s Internal Advisory Committee (ADIAC) for two years, contributed to revising Training Course Outlines (TCOs), facilitated community outreach with an emphasis in youth aviation development, and compiled historical data for presentations to university executives. In Fall of 2024, I took on the added responsibility of supervising both dispatch and linecrew teams, raising my employee load from 8 to 27—a challenge that’s further honed my leadership and organizational skills. Recently, I was graciously awarded a training scholarship from the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) and will receive Aviation Professional Leadership training in October of 2025. I’m currently working on the Lean Six Sigma White Belt and will be beginning my NBAA Business Aircraft Scheduler Certificate later this summer of 2025, ultimately aiming for the NBAA Certified Aviation Manager (CAM) certification. These qualifications will deepen my expertise in operations, scheduling, and management, positioning me for future leadership roles and support my career advancement.

The progress I’ve made at CWU Aviation is one of my proudest achievements so far in my aviation career, and it’s only the beginning. My long-term goal is to become Director of Operations at a private or corporate jet management company or FBO. Ultimately, I hope to establish my own jet management company and build a recognized, reputable brand in aviation. While I don’t aspire to fly or maintain aircraft myself, I know I can add significant value in the management, planning, and operational efficiency of flight operations. In my free time I enjoy spending my days with friends and family, and my Australian shepherd, Ranger. It has been a joy to reside in Ellensburg; with the Rodeo and related events being one of my favorite pastimes. You can usually find me outside, exploring the hills of Ellensburg, or at any live music event, working on my swing-dancing skills.