Spartans of UD - Jorge Rangel

Spartans of UD highlights what makes the University of Dubuque special - the people.

Jorge Rangel is an aviation dispatch and operations assistant at the Babka Aviation Learning Center for the University of Dubuque's Department of Aviation. His daughters also attended UD - Sidney (Rangel) Kohl (C'11, MBA'16), head strength and conditioning coach at UD, and Chelsea Rangel (C'16).

What drew you to a career in the aviation world?

"I just got lucky. I applied for a job at the University of Dubuque and a part-time campus shuttle driver position became available for transporting aviation students from campus to the Babka Aviation Learning Center. After six months as a driver, I became a full-time dispatcher and operations assistant at the Babka Aviation Learning Center."

What does a typical day look like for you as the aviation dispatch and operations assistant?

"Basically, I start work at 6:00 a.m. and start processing any flights that were taken the night before by checking in the aircraft, flight times, and keys. I then check the flight schedule for the day and make sure there is enough aircraft available for the flight blocks scheduled. When students come to dispatch, I assign them an aircraft, check that they have the proper credentials, and review the aircraft binder with them and their flight instructor before they leave. I also coordinate the campus and hanger shuttle schedules with drivers. If we have a prospective student visit, I greet the student and their families to make them feel welcome. In addition, I also post their name on the TV screen which gives that added touch."

What do you enjoy most about being a Spartan?

"Having my daughters attend UD and seeing how they flourished and grew with the campus community through being involved with sports, clubs, and studying abroad, I knew I wanted to be a part of this university to interact with young people on their path to a higher education."

What life motto or piece of advice do you like to share with aviation students?

"This is a tough one for me because each student is different so I do not have any one specific motto that I say to each one. I just try to provide encouragement and support and let students know I am there if they need anything whether it is their first day or their last."

In your opinion, what makes the University of Dubuque unique?

"Its Mission. Go Spartans!"