Applying Machine Learning to Aviation Traffic Challenges

Posted December 20, 2024December 11, 2025 in Data Science, International Students, Students

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Growing up in Kenya and trained in applied mathematics, Beryl Ochieng first entered the world of data through her work with national vital-statistics records. Seeing how gaps in information affected real decisions pushed her toward further study, a direction that led her to Rutgers–Camden, where she is completing her Master of Science in Data Science. Her interests now extend from public data challenges to the complexities of airline traffic and route optimization, reflecting a focused effort to use data to address problems with practical consequences.

Building a Foundation in Applied Mathematics

At the undergraduate level, I earned a Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics and Computing at Maasai Mara University in Kenya. I applied my skills during my attachment and internship at the Department of Civil Registration Services, where I worked on analyzing vital statistics and providing insights on trends in birth and death rates, as well as how resources could be distributed in the future.

The biggest highlight of my time at Rutgers University–Camden has been serving as a tutor teaching mathematics…Working with professors has also motivated me to move from having broad research ideas to identifying specific approaches to real problems..
Beryl Ochieng

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How Data Gaps Inspired My Transition Into Data Science

I am currently completing a master’s in Data Science at Rutgers University. In my previous profession, during my internship at the National Registry, Department of Civil Registration Services, I realized that a significant amount of data was not being organized or utilized to support future solutions to community problems. This motivated me because there is so much work to be done in data analysis and developing detailed insights for future predictions and improvement of facilities and organizations.

Exploring Machine Learning in Aviation and Transportation

I am looking forward to using machine learning and AI to monitor airplane traffic and scheduling in relation to seasonal patterns. I am deeply interested in the transportation industry, and my research focuses on exploring different datasets in aviation, improving existing algorithms for route optimization, and identifying optimal solutions. Route optimization is a complex field, but it has meaningful potential to increase airline profitability, improve customer satisfaction, and help pilots fly routes and profiles that enhance safety and efficiency while saving time and fuel.

Teaching and Community Engagement in Camden

The biggest highlight of my time at Rutgers University–Camden has been serving as a tutor teaching mathematics at the LEAP Academy. Beyond the financial support, it has given me the opportunity to educate and inspire children in Camden. Working with professors has also motivated me to move from having broad research ideas to identifying specific approaches to real problems.