Competency Three

In POLI 7000, I conducted an original research study examining the relationship between federal Airport Improvement Program funding, airport performance, and resilience to disruptions. This project required me to combine data from the Federal Aviation Administration, Bureau of Transportation Statistics, and Federal Emergency Management Agency into a dataset of 1,444 observations and use regression analysis to evaluate the relationship between funding, delays, cancellations, and disaster exposure. This assignment strengthened my ability to move beyondcollecting information and instead use quantitative methods to answer a meaningful public-sector question. I also learned the importance of interpreting statistical findings carefully, particularly when working with observational data that cannot establish causation. As I pursue a career in airport administration, these skills will help me use operational and financial data to evaluate performance, support funding decisions, and make more informed management recommendations.