Taking Flight: How Damien Grad Nicole Siu (’22) Turned Her Passion Into a Career
From the hallways of Damien to the skies above Arizona, Nicole Siu has always been driven by curiosity, discipline, and big dreams. This year, she reached a major milestone: earning her Commercial Pilot License—a turning point for any aspiring professional pilot.
“It’s a huge milestone,” she explains, “because it opens the door to turning aviation from a passion to an actual career.”
Now a senior at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, Siu is completing her degree in Aeronautical Science – Fixed Wing, a rigorous program that requires pilots to earn multiple ratings and certifications. She began her commercial training just days after earning her Instrument Rating; an achievement that allows her to fly solely by reference to cockpit instruments.
Her flight experience at ERAU has been transformative.
“My training shaped me into a confident, professional pilot through the amazing, supportive instructors and challenging curriculum.”
The opportunities that followed have been just as impressive. Siu’s accomplishments earned her sponsorship to attend the Women in Aviation International Conference in Texas in 2026, supported by school leadership, Blue Origin, Boeing, and ERAU’s Women in Aviation Chapter. She also secured a leadership role in the university’s new Aeronautical Honors Society, Alpha Omicron Alpha.
“ERAU guided me toward becoming a professional pilot, but also pushed me to expand my horizons, step out of my comfort zone, and take every opportunity to grow.”
How Damien Helped Her Take Off
Nicole credits her foundation at Damien as a key part of her success in college and aviation.
“Damien’s teachers supported my academics and personal growth and prepared me for university life.”
They challenged her, held her accountable, and instilled habits that still guide her today.
“The teachers pushed me to be the best student that I can and built a great foundation that I was able to build on during college.
A Memory That Still Makes Her Smile
Despite her busy schedule and impressive achievements, Siu still thinks back to simple moments at Damien.
“Eating lunch with my friends near the lockers—just having a great, fun time.”
From campus lunches to flight decks thousands of feet in the air, Siu continues to carry the Damien spirit with her.
Her story is more than a celebration of accomplishment—it’s a reminder of the power of community, support, and taking bold steps toward your future. And as she continues her journey in aviation, we’re proud to cheer her on from the ground.
