Brandywine

Penn State alum to speak at Brandywine commencement

Penn State Brandywine’s graduating class this fall will be ushered into the real world by one of their own, a Penn Stater with an impressive career under his belt. The campus’ Commencement Ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. Dec. 21, in the Commons Building Gymnasium.

Upper Darby native Mike Arata attended Penn State Brandywine for two years before earning a bachelor of science degree in aerospace engineering from the University Park campus.

He currently serves as managing director of engineering for United Airlines, a position he has held since April 2010. In his present role, Arata oversees the airworthiness and configuration of the fleet of more than 700 Boeing and Airbus aircraft for the world’s largest airline. His team defines the technical requirements and modifications that ensure the aircraft and engines are maintained to the highest levels of safety and reliability.

Arata began his career with United upon graduation from Penn State in 1991. His first assignment was as a liaison engineer supporting United’s airframe overhauls in San Francisco. In 1995, he transferred to Chicago where he moved into a line engineering role supporting United’s hub operation at O’Hare International Airport. Since then, Arata has progressed through various leadership positions in engineering and line maintenance at both the station and corporate levels.

Arata and his family live in the Chicago area. He is proud to be a die-hard Penn State and Philadelphia sports fan.

 

Mike Arata will speak at commencement Dec. 21. Credit: Penn StateCreative Commons

Last Updated November 30, 2012

Contact