California Aeronautical University (CAU) honored its 2025 graduating class during a commencement ceremony held on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the University’s campus in Bakersfield, California.
The ceremony celebrated the achievements of graduates entering the aviation industry, many of whom have already secured opportunities with prominent organizations such as Endeavor Air, Robinson Helicopters, SkyWest Airlines, and Northrop Grumman.
This year’s keynote address was delivered by Lt. Colonel Carlos Pinedo, PhD, a decorated Air Force pilot and veteran with extensive leadership experience.
Most graduates received degrees in the University’s flagship Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics program, which prepares students for commercial pilot careers. Other degrees and diplomas awarded included Aviation Maintenance Technology, Associate of Science in Aviation Maintenance Technology, and Master of Aviation Science.
“Graduation is more than a ceremony—it’s a celebration of the relationships, resilience, and purpose that brought our students to this point,” said Matthew Johnston, President of California Aeronautical University. “Throughout their time at CAU, our graduates have developed not only their skills as aviation professionals, but also a deeper understanding of themselves and the people who support them. As they launch into this next chapter, they carry with them strong values, a sense of responsibility, and the tools to lead with confidence. We’re proud to have been part of their journey and excited to see where their careers will take them.”
Lt. Colonel Carlos Pinedo, PhD, a graduate of MIT and the University of Colorado Boulder, flew the B-1B aircraft in over 135 missions supporting Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. Selected in 2013 for the prestigious USAF Test Pilot School, he now serves as Director of Education at the school and has logged over 3,000 flight hours across more than 30 aircraft types. His deep experience in flight test engineering, combat operations, and STEM mentorship makes him a powerful role model for CAU graduates entering aviation and aerospace careers.
In his keynote address, Lt. Colonel Carlos Pinedo, PhD encouraged graduates to embrace the lessons of aviation—discipline, teamwork, curiosity, and resilience—as they prepare to lead in an ever-changing world. Drawing from his experience as a test pilot and combat aviator, he reminded them that attitude determines altitude, and that true success comes from supporting others, staying humble, and always remaining curious.
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