Thomas Wodazak
Summary
Motivated Florida Institute of Technology student with experience supporting aviation operations and kitchen workflow. Demonstrates decision making and performance under high-stress conditions. Focuses on safe procedures, teamwork, and timely execution of responsibilities.
Overview
1
1
Certification
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Private Pilot
Florida Institute of Technology
Egg Harbor, NJ
08.2025 - Current
- Executed check-ride in Pipistrel Alpha Trainer, showcasing situational awareness and navigation skills.
- Completed checkride on August 9, 2025, with designated pilot examiner Michael McIntyre at N40.
- Received positive feedback from examiner, affirming compliance with airman certification standards.
- Earned FAA Wings credit for exceptional performance during check-ride.
- Developed ability to make quick decisions while flying under stressful conditions
- Tested knowledge acquired during student pilot training effectively under pressure.
- Completed Commercial stage 1 from FIT in the spring of 2026 in the Piper 100i
Student Pilot
Beyond Aviation
Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey
05.2024 - 08.2025
- Conducted thorough pre-flight checks to confirm aircraft readiness and safety.
- Executed emergency procedures training, enhancing preparedness for engine failure and stall recovery situations.
- Utilized sound aeronautical decision-making to navigate complex flight scenarios, improving safety and operational effectiveness.
- Flew regularly out of KACY (Atlantic City International), gaining practical experience in Class C airspace operations.
- Gained proficiency in Pipistrel Alpha Trainer for practical flight experience.
- Practiced effective communication skills on radio using FAA-compliant phraseology.
- Participated in ground school sessions to expand aviation knowledge and skills.
- Recognized hazardous pilot attitudes and implemented corrective measures during training.
- Operated aircraft while ensuring adherence to safety protocols and maintenance standards.
Small UAS License
Atlantic County Institute of Technology
Mays Landing, New Jersey
09.2024 - 01.2025
- Acquired expertise in flying UAS in congested areas to enhance safety during search and rescue missions.
- Demonstrated proficiency as a thermal pilot for aerial applications using Autel Evo II.
- Executed precise cinematography flights using DJI equipment to capture high-quality aerial footage.
- Directed team operations as crew chief and visual observer, improving mission effectiveness and coordination.
- Completed Embry-Riddle directed course on UAS operations and safety during high school.
Chef
Varsity Inn Restaurant
Ocean City, NJ
05.2022 - Current
- Transitioned from expediter to chef, enhancing culinary skills and management capabilities.
- Oversaw kitchen operations, gaining experience in high-pressure environments.
- Coordinated line cooks with precise instructions on incoming orders.
- Trained new kitchen staff on safety protocols and cooking techniques, enhancing team competency.
- Created menus, tracked inventory, and procured supplies.
- Prepared and served food while maintaining cleanliness and organization standards in the kitchen.
- Progressed from dishwasher/busser to kitchen prep and sandwich station, showcasing versatility.
- Managed dishwasher area and bussing tables to ensure smooth restaurant operations.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Aeronautical Science (Flight)
Florida Institute of Technology (FIT)
Melbourne, FL05-2028
High School Diploma -
Atlantic County Institute of Technology (ACIT) High School
Mays Landing, NJ06-2025
Skills
- Flight planning
- Aircraft operations
- Remotely piloted aircraft operation
- Weather analysis
- Aeronautical Decision Making
- Emergency management
- Risk Management
- Pre-flight check
- Problem solving
- Crisis management
- Team Collaboration
- Organizational skills
- Effective communication
Volunteer Work
- Church by The Bay, Galloway, NJ, 2022-current, Present, Prepare meals and snacks for the homeless., Stock shelves in the food pantry, organize donated food and clothes and assemble hygiene kits.
- TERROR IN THE JUNKYARD, Egg Harbor Township, NJ, Fall 2024, Present, Raised money for the local fire departments by assisting with the attractions in the Haunted Hayride
- Wreaths Across America, Mays Landing, NJ, November 2024, Laid wreaths on fallen service members and first responders graves, Cleaned up tombstones that were covered and had leaves/debris covering it
Affiliations
- Alpha Eta Rho Member of the fraternity which helps connect the Aviation industry to student leaders
- Florida Tech Track and Field: Winter and Spring sport that trains year long showcasing the ability to balance training, education, and a personal life.
- WINGS Safety: FAA program that allows pilots to earn Wings by completing safety courses routinely and keeping currency
- 2023-2025 AFJROTC active cadet
- National Honor Society Member
- National Technical Honor Society Member
- High School Peer Tutor: Assisted classmates with academic support
Certification
- Private Pilots License
- SUAS License
- Boating Safety Certificate
- OSHA-10
Accomplishments
- 2026 All SSC Second Team 4x400m (Track and field)
- 2026 SSC Academic Spring Honor Roll
- 2026 Spring Semester Florida Tech Deans List
- 2025 Atlantic County 800m Champion
- 2025 ACIT Male Athlete of the year
- 2025 ACIT Sportsmanship Award
- 2025 ACIT Most Valuable Track Athlete
- 2024 ACIT Most Valuable Cross Country Athlete
References
- Andrew Nebl: andrew.j.nebl@gmail.com
- Chris Mccarthy: (732)-690-0202
- Jeffrey Boyer: (609) 808-1212
Timeline
Private Pilot
Florida Institute of Technology
08.2025 - Current
Small UAS License
Atlantic County Institute of Technology
09.2024 - 01.2025
Student Pilot
Beyond Aviation
05.2024 - 08.2025
Chef
Varsity Inn Restaurant
05.2022 - Current
Bachelor of Science - Aeronautical Science (Flight)
Florida Institute of Technology (FIT)
High School Diploma -
Atlantic County Institute of Technology (ACIT) High School