Bruce Melnick

UWF degree and year of graduation:
MS, Aeronautical Systems, 1975; Honorary Doctorate of Science, 2001

Why did you choose to attend UWF?
Great opportunity to earn MS degree while earning my wings with the USCG at NAS Pensacola.

What were your goals as a student?
Succeed at the dual challenge of flight training and obtaining an MS degree.

What is your best memory from your days at UWF?
Dr. Flederman’s style, both in teaching and apparel.

Who was your favorite professor and why?
He was my Aerothermopropulsion instructor. Can’t remember his name but I think it was something like Theisman. He was the smartest, most dynamic, capable of conveying the message instructor I’ve ever had.

What do you do now?
I am totally retired---fishing, racing, golfing, diving, hunting---and taking weekends off!

How did UWF help you progress to this point?
UWF was the launchpad of my career as a test pilot and Astronaut. Without it, who knows—I might have to be still working!!!

Outside of working, what activities and organizations are you currently involved in and what are your hobbies?
I mentioned the five above and I am also a certified observer for the International Game Fish Association (IGFA) where I participate/referee in fish conserving tournaments. I also participate in many fund raising fishing and golf tournaments for various charities.

How do you stay connected to UWF?
I have participated with the IHMC prior to retirement.

What advice do you have to current and future UWF students?
Give it all you’ve got! The sky is no longer the limit!!!

What quality makes UWF special or unique?
Relaxed atmosphere in paradise!

Visit Bruce’s NASA bio for more information:
http://www.jsc.nasa.gov/Bios/htmlbios/melnick-be.html

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