Capt. Bruce Kayser, Endeavor Air’s most senior pilot, is proving that it is never too late to achieve your dreams. 

Bruce recently graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University with a bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Science BS and a minor in Aviation Safety, an achievement that was 42 years in the making. 

Bruce first started college in 1982 and completed two years of junior college, but his path changed as he began flight instructing. He became a pilot in corporate aviation before flying for Mesaba Airlines, and then Endeavor Air. 

“I always told myself that I needed to get the four-year degree,” said Bruce, who is based in Minneapolis. “But I also have two boys, and I always tell them that no matter how long it takes you, always finish what you start, and do your best at it.”  

In 2000, Embry-Riddle began offering online classes, which caught Bruce’s eye. Bruce had 73 college credits to go before receiving the cap and diploma, so he began. Since Bruce was a full-time pilot and father, he took one class every two years. In 2019, the school changed the requirement to having to take one class every year.  

Balancing life could be tricky, but Bruce always kept a positive attitude and tried to lead by example.  

“My kids were homeschooled while they were young, so they had their school day, and then there was Dad’s school day,” Bruce said. “I tried to lead by example by showing them how to study and stay disciplined. I made sure to set a time schedule to accomplish the workload in a timely manner.” 

Bruce’s favorite classes were the safety management system courses. With a hint of sarcasm, Bruce claimed he saved the best two classes for last.  

“I saved college algebra and statistics for the very end. My wife is very good at math and helped me survive the class.”  

 When Bruce finished his degree, his family traveled with him to the Daytona Beach campus for graduation. They had a social event the night before, where Bruce was able to meet his classmates and put a face to the name.  

“When I walked up to receive my diploma at graduation, they handed me red chords and I said, ‘What are these things?’ Turns out, I received honor chords for [graduating] Magna Cum Laude,” said Bruce.  “I was surprised at myself as I never considered myself an academic guy.”  

Bruce and his family had a fun celebration after the ceremony, and he received many congratulatory notes from his loved ones. 

“I got a hilarious card from one of my friends. It read, ‘No matter how long it took you to finish, they were never going to name a building after you.’”  

Bruce is proud to have achieved this important milestone, but he doesn’t see it as a finish line. Bruce is determined to continue learning and growing. 

“It has me contemplating getting a Master’s degree in Aviation Safety,” Bruce said. “I am very proud to say I completed what I started.”