This spring, Wasliewski traveled to Atlanta to represent Miramar College at Verticon 2026, a global aviation conference hosted by Vertical Aviation International. Alongside two classmates and a faculty mentor, he competed in a high-stakes skills challenge against top aviation programs, including military teams.
Miramar College’s Federal Aviation Administration-approved program is the only low-tuition option of its kind in the region, training students for careers as mechanics, pilots, and aviation technicians. For Wasliewski, it has also been something more personal — a sense of purpose and pride.
Aviation, he said, represents a turning point. “For the first time in my life,” he shared, “I can say I’m proud of myself.”
Prior to Miramar College, what path were you on?
I worked at Bronx Pizza for about eight years. I moved to San Diego from Iowa on my own and just kind of stayed in that job. When one of the owners passed away and there was talk about selling the business, it scared me. I realized I didn’t have a backup plan.
What inspired you to pursue aviation?
Back in Iowa, I worked on race cars and got into automotive and mechanical work. Later, I met a 747-cargo pilot, and his success stuck with me. At the same time, a friend recommended Miramar College and told me studying aviation was the best decision he ever made. Hearing that was enough for me to enroll.
What was your first impression of the program?
I came in not knowing what to expect. Starting with general education and introductory aviation courses, I learned the fundamentals of aircraft maintenance, and flight operations. That experience gave me a strong foundation and helped point me in the direction I wanted to go.
How did your automotive background help?
It gave me mechanical awareness, but aviation is on a different level. You learn precision, safety, and accountability. I started focusing on general aviation and worked toward my (Airframe and Powerplant) license, which opens a lot of doors in this industry. Your career options become limitless.
What’s next after graduation?
The aviation industry is highly competitive; I am fortunate to already have gained entry work with a local avionics shop. It’s come full circle, my employers are Miramar College Aviation alumni from the 1980s. Long term, I’d love to work with composite aircraft and advanced systems, maybe even with small jet repair stations with Gryphon Aircraft.
What has been your favorite course?
Reciprocating Engines. We took a piston engine that didn’t work, cleaned it, rebuilt it, and got it running again. Seeing something you worked on come to life — it’s an incredible feeling. It gave me a lot of pride.
How would you describe your experience with faculty and classmates?
We come from all walks of life: military, hospitality, different careers, but we’re all working toward the same goal. The professors bring real-world experience and hold us to a high standard. It’s an environment where precision matters and doing things right, every time, is essential. I felt supported to give 100% every day.
Tell us about Verticon 2026.
It was a helicopter-focused competition. We competed against military teams and other schools. We didn’t win, but we learned a lot. It was about exposure; being there and understanding the industry. I’m proud we showed up and even more proud that we were invited back for next year. Southwest Airlines also took an interest in our team, which made the experience even more meaningful.
Would you return to Verticon?
Absolutely. We’re already talking about next year, and there’s even potential sponsorship support on the horizon. I want to stay as involved as possible with Miramar College; I owe them a lot. They’ve changed my life, and I want to mentor the next group of aviation students.
How has Miramar College prepared you for a career in aviation?
I scored an 87% on my FAA exam which is above the national average. I almost cried. I was never good at school, so that meant a lot. For the first time, I feel proud of myself. I found something I’m passionate about.
Learn more about Miramar College's Aviation Maintenance Techology Program