Wilfredo Hernandez
First Officer at United Airlines
Guidance from Alum
"Do your research into commute, salary, hours, and fleet for each airline so that you can make the most informed decision."
Academic Program
Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics
Success Journey
Enrolled in the bachelor's degree in aeronautics program at CAU
Started as Mesa Airlines Cadet
Hired as CFI at CAU
Graduated from CAU
Hired at Mesa Airlines
Hired at Atlas Air
Hired at United Airlines
Steps to Success
I started as a Mesa Airlines Cadet through CAU before moving up to First Officer, then moved on to Atlas, before ending up at United in my current position.
Future Goals
I would like to fly more wide-body airplanes and work as an instructor at United for new hires eventually.
Certificates Earned
Student Pilot Certificate
Private Pilot Certificate
Commercial Pilot Certificate
Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument (CFII)
**Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate
Ratings Earned
Multi-Engine Pilot Rating
Instrument Pilot Rating
**CAU prepares students for the ATP certificate; the ATP itself is issued only by the FAA. Students younger than 23 or who have obtained fewer than 1,500 hours are eligible for the ATP with restrictions (Learn more about the R-ATP).




