Grace Hamilton
Grace Hamilton is an Aerospace and Occupational Safety student at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where she is pursuing her Bachelor of Science with an expected graduation in December 2026. She previously earned her Associate of Science in Aeronautics, graduating with academic distinction and multiple Dean’s List honors. Growing up in Pensacola, Florida, just minutes from a Navy base, Grace was immersed in aviation from an early age. Inspired by her father’s work as a U.S. Marine Corps mechanic on A-4 and C-130 aircraft, she developed a passion for aviation safety and a deep curiosity about aircraft systems and accident investigation. Her long-term goal is to advance safety practices within aerospace manufacturing and engine testing, with a particular interest in environmental health and safety within high-performance defense engine programs.
Professionally, Grace has built a strong foundation in environmental and occupational safety through hands-on industry experience. As a Safety and Environmental Specialist Intern at SeaWorld, she contributed to SPCC programs, chemical management processes, fire safety initiatives, and the development of an Environmental Operations Guide to support compliance and knowledge transfer. She is also preparing for an environmental health and safety role with GE Aerospace, a company she has admired since childhood for its precision-driven manufacturing and engine testing operations. In addition, Grace has worked in customer service at Publix Super Markets since 2020, where she developed strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills that complement her technical training and commitment to workplace safety.
Beyond her professional experience, Grace is an active campus leader and communicator. She serves as Design Editor for The Avion, Embry-Riddle’s student newspaper, overseeing publication standards, training designers, and managing digital content. She is also involved in organizations such as Women in Aviation International, International Society of Air Safety Investigators, and American Society of Safety Professionals, where she engages in industry discussions, professional development, and networking. Through her academic work in aircraft accident investigation, environmental compliance, and safety program management, Grace remains dedicated to strengthening aviation safety for future generations while continuing to grow as a safety professional and industry leader.
• OSHA 30-Hour
• Deans List Fall - 2024,2025
• First Aid/CPR/AED Instructor
• GE Aerospace - Explore Supply Chain Job Simulation
• Deans List Spring 2025
• Virtual Reality Aviation Illusion Training
• High Altitude Hypoxia Awareness Training
• Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - A.S.
• Dean's List - 2022,2023,2024
• Women in Aviation International
• Society of Air Safety Investigators (ISASI)
• Student Government Association at Embry-Riddle
• Orientation Team Specialist
• Campus Tours for Families
• Ronald McDonald House
• Roadside Cleanups
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to taking a step back and looking at how far I've come and what opportunities I've been able to have. When things get overwhelming, especially at a high STEM school where everyone gets wrapped up in assignments, projects, and deadlines, I just take a step back to breathe, because everything will work out. I'm very blessed to have a wonderful support team that I work with that really helps balance each other out. When I'm busy, they ask what they can take off my plate to help, and vice versa, which makes the process much, much easier. I've learned that it's not a one-woman show - it takes a team of people to be there and support you when you're tired, stressed, and in the happy moments. I also stay organized with my color-coordinated calendar where everything is scheduled so I can take a quick glance and know what's going on. I start my day off right by checking what's on my calendar instead of just diving in head first.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice is always just take every opportunity that you see, because you never know what's going to happen. Every opportunity that's out there is a learning experience, even if it isn't what you end up going into for your career or your future. There's lessons that you can learn from those experiences that may help you or someone else in the future. I got my internship last summer and I saw it on LinkedIn and I was like, okay, I don't really want to do a theme park, it sounds like it's going to be really, really hot. But you know what, it's an opportunity, and I'll just throw my name in the hat. And then I ended up getting it, and I loved it, and I got my exercise all summer, so it worked. I also tell freshmen that one thing I wish I started sooner is networking. The moment you get your foot on campus, go to clubs, talk to your professors. Even if you don't have a question and you understand the material, just go talk to them. They love to yap. Ask them what their career was like, what made them want to teach at Embry-Riddle. It puts you in a good light with the professor and it also helps when letter of recommendation time comes around, plus there might be something that happened in their career that sounds interesting.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is how media plays a big role in accident investigation and mitigation. With the development of social media and influencers, it's making it more difficult to get the proper information out there. It's causing people to have to backtrack in order to get where they should already be. I'm currently doing an essay for a scholarship for ISASI on this topic, exploring how media impacts the ability to communicate accurate information about aviation accidents and investigations.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
In both my professional and personal life, I prioritize safety, mentorship, and teamwork. I also value being open to new opportunities and committed to continuous learning, as these principles guide my growth and the positive impact I strive to make.
Locations
The Avion
Daytona Beach Shores, FL 32118