Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable fall 2024 graduates.
Dahlia Ropke's decision to attend Arizona State University was heavily influenced by her father — an alumnus who completed the aviation program and became a Boeing 777 captain, a position Ropke aspires to attain herself.
She has dedicated her academic journey to pursuing her passion for aviation, majoring in aeronautical management technology with a focus on professional flight in ASU's Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering.
“I chose to attend ASU specifically for its aviation program,” says Ropke, noting that the professional flight focus provided her with a unique, accelerated opportunity to progress in the industry.
In The Polytechnic School, part of the Fulton Schools, Ropke discovered an inclusive community at ASU that encouraged her personal growth and career confidence. She attributes much of her early success to Assistant Teaching Professor Jimmy Kimberly, who welcomed and inspired her in a field traditionally dominated by men.
As an advocate for women in aviation, Ropke served as treasurer of Women in Aviation International at ASU, where she organized events such as a Phoenix Sky Harbor Air Traffic Control Tower tour and a visit to the Pima Air & Space Museum.
She found that the advanced facilities available on the Polytechnic campus and throughout the ASU community provided one-of-a-kind learning opportunities.
“I have access to many simulators, including a multi-million-dollar CRJ regional jet simulator,” Ropke says. “I am so glad to have had the privilege of such an exciting educational experience.”
By age 19, she had earned her certification as a flight instructor, demonstrating her commitment to aviation and supporting fellow aspiring pilots. This experience reinforced her desire to give back, prompting her to become an aviation tutor to provide educational support to new students.
Ropke’s commitment to excellence is reflected in her numerous accolades, including being named ATP Flight School’s ASU Student of the Month in January, and repeatedly making the dean’s list. She is also a recent recipient of the Moeur Award.
After graduation, she plans to accumulate flight hours as an instructor and, eventually, fulfill her dream of piloting wide-body jets for a major airline. Through her achievements and involvement, Ropke aims to set an example for future female pilots, proving that with hard work, “they, too, can accomplish their goals.”
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