Associate Professor and Chair of the School of Business Jules Yimga brings a powerful combination of research, industry engagement and global perspective to Embry-Riddle’s College of Business, Security and Intelligence. His work centers on air transport economics, regulatory policy and performance metrics that define the future of aviation.
Yimga holds a Ph.D. in Economics from Kansas State University, where he focused on airline competition and product quality. He also earned an M.S. in Business Administration with distinction from Alabama A&M University, as well as a B.S. in Banking and Finance with honors from the University of Buea in Cameroon.
In addition to academia, he serves on the Board of Directors for the Arizona Business Aviation Association and consults on economic modeling for the aviation and financial sectors.
At Embry-Riddle, Yimga teaches courses designed to equip students with career-ready skills, including EC 330: Air Transport Economics; BA 102: Introduction to Aviation, Aerospace and Global Business; and BA 395T: Commercial Aspects of UAS/Advanced Air Mobility.
His teaching blends applied economics with active industry engagement. By integrating current data, consulting projects and regulatory case studies, he empowers students to uncover the complex realities of modern aviation.
“What makes my style unique is the seamless integration of my own research and consulting experience into the curriculum, making abstract theory tangible for students,” Yimga said.
What initially drew you to Embry-Riddle?
Embry-Riddle’s aviation and aerospace focus, combined with its strong undergraduate engagement and opportunities for interdisciplinary research, made it a perfect fit. The ability to directly shape aviation business education while also collaborating with engineering, cybersecurity and aeronautics faculty was especially appealing.
What are your favorite topics to teach and research?
I particularly enjoy teaching Air Transport Economics, as it provides a platform to discuss pricing strategies, market structure, regulatory impacts and operational behavior in aviation. My research focuses on airline competition, on-time performance, schedule padding, code-sharing, and the effects of regulatory changes on consumer welfare and market dynamics.
What should students know about the future of the security industry?
Security is becoming increasingly integrated with data analytics, cybersecurity and uncrewed systems. The boundaries between physical and digital security are dissolving, and future leaders must be comfortable navigating both. Regulatory frameworks are also evolving rapidly, and students should anticipate a dynamic landscape that values adaptability, cross-disciplinary knowledge and ethical decision-making. Understanding how AI integrates with existing infrastructure and the ethical implications of that integration will be critical.
What is one piece of advice you would give to today’s college students?
Invest in relationships and curiosity. The most successful students are those who seek mentorship, explore ideas beyond the syllabus and apply what they learn through internships, research or entrepreneurship. Don’t be afraid to fail smart, as it’s part of real learning.
What are your interests outside of Embry-Riddle?
I enjoy international travel, particularly connecting with academic partners across Europe, Asia and Africa. I’m also passionate about mentoring, community engagement and exploring intersections between economics, policy and innovation. When I get a break, you’ll find me hiking or gardening with my family.