My job entails using mathematical tools to create worldwide (short-term, medium-term, and long-term) computerized forecasts that measure fluctuations in aircraft ramp volumes.

My interest in mathematics and computers began as a young child. I enjoyed the challenge of solving puzzles—everything from jigsaw puzzles to brain teasers to word problems. Throughout my undergraduate studies, I specialized in mathematics. However, it was not until my last semester that I was exposed to operations research. During this course, I was introduced to using mathematical models and computers to solve real-life problems.

One of the problems that I was asked to solve was how to minimize the waiting times for individuals who want to ride Space Mountain at Disney World. Utilizing queueing theory, I was able to evaluate how dividing a line of people into one, two, three, or four smaller groups would affect waiting times throughout different times of the day based on crowd size. A second problem that we examined was determining how a farmer might maximize potential profit. Using linear programming, we were able to determine which crop (corn, wheat, or beans) would offer the greatest revenue after accounting for fertilization and harvesting costs.'

I was so inspired by that single course in operations research that I went on to obtain my master's degree in OR. I was already employed by FedEx as a senior service agent when I began my graduate work.