Q&A with Chris Gatley
Where are you from? Tucson, Ariz.
What was your major? Business Management
Why did you choose Coastal? I loved the small class sizes, the interaction between students and professors, and the availability of both on-campus and online classes. Since I was a nontraditional student (well over the average student age (44 at the time) and already well into my career), I felt it was the best environment to continue my goal.
What was your favorite memory of Coastal and why? My first day on campus as a student and knowing I was taking the right steps to further my career. My second favorite day would be the day I gave my capstone presentation, knowing that I was on the final path to graduation and receiving my degree.
What was your favorite spot on campus and why? That would be a split answer. It was either the quiet of a study room in the library because it was one of the places where I could find solitude from the chaotic world that was swirling around me or the student veterans lounge because there was always a lively conversation, but also a willing person to help out at any time.
Who was/were your favorite professor(s) and why? My favorite professor was Henry Lowenstein. This was because he relayed real-world happenings into the curriculum in order to ensure students understood the topic. For me, he was a willing ear to listen to what was going on in my life and wanted to ensure that I succeeded. To me, that was invaluable. It also helped that we had a mutual love of aviation.
How did Coastal prepare you for your current career? As I stated before, I already possessed more than 28 years of professional experience (between military and civilian) and had a good base and skill set that served me well. Coastal helped me hone my skills and formalize many of the practices I was already utilizing. Additionally, I was able to take the traits of many of my professors and peers and help refine my skills as a leader to be a better productive member of the management team at wherever I was going to end up at after graduation.
What is your current career? I am an auditor with the Internal Evaluation Program within the Corporate Safety Division of United Airlines. We ensure all operating divisions within United (airport operations, flight operations, network operations, technical operations, etc.) are following all regulatory guidance both internally and externally (federal and international).
What is a fun fact about yourself? I have won many awards have been lucky enough to stay in a field (aviation) I have been passionate about for more than 20 years. I have many memorable memories within my life, but one of the most memorable was the afternoon I was able to take a flight over the Sinai Peninsula and observe firsthand many of the areas where the cradle of our civilization started.
How do you see yourself in 10 years? I would like to see myself as a managing director within one of our operating divisions here in the future. I love being a part of this airline and have valued every moment and experience I have had thus far.