Sarah Nilsson

Title
Associate Professor
Email
Department
Applied Aviation Sciences Department
College
College of Aviation

Areas of Expertise

Aviation Law

Drone Law

Advanced Air Mobility

Business Law

Fixed-Wing Pilot Training

Drone Pilot Certification

Business Administration

Sarah Nilsson

Dr. Sarah Nilsson is an associate professor teaching for both the Aeronautical Science and Applied Aviation Sciences Departments.

Dr. Nilsson holds a J.D. from Arizona Summit Law School, a Ph.D. in Business Administration from Northcentral University and an M.S. in Aeronautical Science. Additionally, she holds an FAA ATP certificate, remote pilot certificate and all CFI ratings. Prior to her academic career, she worked as a professional pilot.

Dr. Nilsson specializes in aviation law, global drone law, and advanced air mobility (AAM). She co-authored the 6th, 7th and 8th editions of Practical Aviation and Aerospace Law. In 2017, she authored, for the American Bar Association, Drones Across America, a text on federal, state and local drone laws. In 2023, through Pressbooks, she authored, and updates weekly, the eBook, Drones Across the World, a comprehensive tome on the world’s drone and AAM laws. Dr. Nilsson is also a Senior Academic with the Advanced Air Mobility Institute.

Throughout her tenure at Embry-Riddle, Dr. Nilsson has created two new courses, one in drone law and another in AAM, to better prepare the students for the global work environment.

She also presents at various drone and AAM conferences, sometimes with students and colleagues.

With 5 legal textbooks and over 50 publications in conferences and journals, Dr. Nilsson is widely recognized for her valuable contributions to aviation, drone and AAM.

Beyond her scholarly achievements, Dr. Nilsson actively engages with the FAA Safety Team, serving as a Safety Representative and DronePro. She frequently leads Wings Seminars to educate her fellow pilots.

  • Ph.D. - Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration, Northcentral University
  • J.D. - Juris Doctor (Doctor of Jurisprudence) in Juris Doctor, Arizona Summit Law School
  • M.A.S. - Master of Aeronautical Science in Human Factors Aviation Systems, Aviation Aerospace Safety Systems/Operations, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
  • B.S. - Bachelor of Science in Professional Aeronautics: Aviation Safety and Business Administration, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
  • Flight Instructor - Federal Aviation Administration
  • Remote Pilot - Federal Aviation Administration
  • Airline Transport Pilot - Federal Aviation Administration
  • Ground Instructor - Federal Aviation Administration
  • AS 405: Aviation Law
  • AS 495I: Concepts in Urban Adv Air Mob
  • AS 324: Global UAS Regulations

BA 390

BA 325

AS 395AA - AS 324

AS 405

AS 125

BOOKS, PAPERS, AND PRESENTATIONS

Nilsson, S. (2025, March 31). Crash and Burn or Lift Off” What do drones and AAM look like under Trump 2.0? Article for Autonomy Global Newsletter. https://autonomyglobal.co/crash-and-burn-or-lift-off-what-do-drones-aam-look-like-under-trump-2-0/

Nilsson, S. (2025, March 4). Women in the Industry. Panel Presentation with Ava Karr, SrA Ashley Bodnar, Audrey Davis, Isabelle Meboe, and Lilliam Sudkamp, Women in Aviation International (WAI) and Society of Women Engineers (SWE), ERAU Prescott Chapters

Nilsson, S. (2025, February 10). The Case of the Unexpected Lawyer. Presentation to Pre-Law Club at the ERAU Prescott Campus

Nilsson, S. (2025, January 20). The Future of Aviation: Becoming an eVTOL Pilot – FAA’s new regulations open up career opportunities. Article for Autonomy Global Newsletter. https://autonomyglobal.co/the-future-of-aviation-becoming-an-evtol-pilot-faas-new-regulations-open-up-career-opportunities/


Nilsson, S. (2024, November 21). The Future of Flying: An Exploration of New Aircraft Design and Energy Required to Support Advanced Air Mobility – Part 3. Presentation for Wesley U, Seattle, WA

Nilsson, S. (2024, November 19). The Future of Flying: An Exploration of New Aircraft Design and Energy Required to Support Advanced Air Mobility – Part 2. Presentation for Wesley U, Seattle, WA

Nilsson, S. (2024, November 15). Drones, Air Taxis, and Flight Safety in a Crowded National Airspace System. Safer Skies Panel Series, with Kevin Adkins and Ryan Wallace. Presentation at the Boeing Center for Aviation & Aerospace Safety, ERAU, Daytona Beach, FL

Nilsson, S. (2024, November 14). The Future of Flying: An Exploration of New Aircraft Design and Energy Required to Support Advanced Air Mobility – Part 1. Presentation for Wesley U, Seattle, WA

Nilsson, S. (2024, October 17). How to start a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Arizona. Presentation for Entrepreneurship Club, ERAU, Prescott

Nilsson, S. (2024, October 8-9). Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) is coming to a town near you…Are you ready? Presentation at the UAS Summit and Expo, Grand Forks, North Dakota

Nilsson, S., Coelho, M., Bee, L., Umoh, E., Mallick, R., Hufty, D., & Wieczorek, J. (2024, April 22). Global Drone Regulations Take Off! LawTechConnect, at Xponential 24. Presentation at San Diego Convention Center, California

Nilsson, S., and Canada K. (Mike). (2024, February 27-28). The Sky is Falling…Or is it? Poster on Advanced Air Mobility Societal Acceptance at ERAU, College of Aviation, Prescott Campus. Poster Presentation at National Training Aircraft Symposium, ERAU-DB, FL

Nilsson, S. (2024, February 6). Women in Aviation – My journey, mentors, and other advice. Women in Aviation, International, Prescott Chapter. Presentation at ERAU-PC in Bldg. 57A.

Nilsson, S. & Hamilton, J. (2024). Practical Aviation and Aerospace Law (8th ed.). Newcastle, WA, Aviation Supplies & Academics.

Nilsson, S. & Hamilton, J. (2024). Practical Aviation and Aerospace Law Workbook (8th ed.). Newcastle, WA, Aviation Supplies & Academics.


Nilsson, S. (2023, September 28). The Wings Program and the Compliance Program. FAASTeam Safety Seminar. Co-presented with Cary Grant, ERAU DLC, Prescott, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2023). Drones across the world. EaglePubs: ERAU. https://eaglepubs.erau.edu/dronesacrosstheworld/


Nilsson, S. (2022, September 24). Girls in Aviation Presentation. Keynote Speaker at Girls in Aviation Day (GIAD), ERAU, Eagle Gym.

Nilsson, S. & Reverdiau, G. (2022, July 27). ALC-803 sUAS: Regulations, Law, Airspace Ownership and FAA Enforcement. Presented online course that is available on demand on FAA Safety Team website, www.faasafety.gov


Nilsson, S. (2021, August 31). UAS Federal and North Carolina State laws. Presented webinar to North Carolina Justice Academy Law “Drone/UAS Basic Level Training Course for Public Safety Officers,” Prescott, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2021, June 2). Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) AZ UAS Virtual Workshop. Panel with Brian Hon (AZ DPS), Jim Robinson and Erica Frazelle (City of Tucson) and Eric Cylwik (Sundt Construction).

Nilsson, S. (2021, April 8). Women in Aviation International (WAI) Panel. ERAU, DLC, Prescott with Hannah Rooney, Dawn Groh, Merrie Heath, Michele Hight, and Jennah Perry.

Nilsson, S. (2021, February 10). Drone Law Kickoff 2021. American Airlines Tech Ops Drone Committee, Lorie Grabham, webinar presentation with Craig Tompkins, FAASTeam.


Nilsson, S. (2020, December 17). Drones. Law for Kids website through the State Bar of Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2020, November 18). Drone Safety Awareness Week: UAS Safety Beyond the Regs. FAASTeam Safety Zoom Webinar with Bryan Baker and Brian Stamper, Prescott, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2020, October 22). Commercial Drone Regulations. Panel presented virtually with Dawn Zoldi (P3 Tech Consulting, moderator), David-Uriel Ibarra, (AFS-300 UAS Division Representative, FAA), Ryan Alfonso (UAS Coordinator Liaison, AFS-300, FAA), and Mary-Caitlin Ray (Counsel Crowell and Moring). AZDroneFest & Education Expo 2020, Prescott, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2020, August 18). UAS Federal and North Carolina State laws. Presented webinar to North Carolina Justice Academy Law “Drone/UAS Basic Level Training Course for Public Safety Officers,” Prescott, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2020, July 8). An Introduction to Civil and Criminal Liability Aviation Basics. Presentation via GoToWebinar to the American Association of Defense Counsel.

Nilsson, S. & Hamilton, J. (2020). Practical Aviation and Aerospace Law (7th ed.). Newcastle, WA, Aviation Supplies & Academics.

Nilsson, S. & Hamilton, J. (2020). Practical Aviation and Aerospace Law Workbook (7th ed.). Newcastle, WA, Aviation Supplies & Academics.

Nilsson, S. (2020, May 2). Can the US Constitution survive the Covid-19 Crisis? ALPF panel moderator with 8 panelists, on live GoToMeeting platform.

Nilsson, S. (2020, March 4). UAS Federal and North Carolina State laws. Presented webinar to North Carolina Justice Academy Law “Drone/UAS Basic Level Training Course for Public Safety Officers,” Prescott, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2020, February 25). UAS Rules and Local Regulatory Considerations with emphasis on security concerns. Association of Former Intelligence Officers (AFIO) Chapter Presentation. ERAU Prescott Campus, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2020, February 8). UAS Rules and Local Regulatory Considerations. FAASTeam Safety Seminar. Copperstate Fly-in, Buckeye Airport, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2020, February 1). UAS Regulatory Update. FAASTeam Safety Seminar. ERAU, Prescott, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2020, January 29). Drone Law Update. Presented on a panel at the Emerging Technology Legal Update 2020, Arizona State Bar, Phoenix, Arizona.


Nilsson, S. (2019, November 7). Current and Future Drone Regulatory Landscape. Presented on a panel at the Unmanned Arizona Summit and Expo, Mesa, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2019, June 12). UAS Federal and State Laws Jeopardy Panel. Presented at the International Conference on Unmanned Aircraft Systems (ICUAS) 2019, Atlanta, Georgia.

Nilsson, S. (2019, May 17). UAS Federal and Arizona State laws. Presented webinar to Extreme Aerial Productions “Lunch and Learn,” Tempe, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2019, May 1). UAS Federal and North Carolina State laws. Presented webinar to North Carolina Justice Academy Law “Drone/UAS Basic Level Training Course for Public Safety Officers,” Prescott, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2019, February 14). UAS Federal and State laws. FAASTeam Safety Seminar. Salt River Police Department, Scottsdale, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2019, February 9). UAS Rules and Local Regulatory Considerations. FAASTeam Safety Seminar. Copperstate Fly-in, Buckeye Airport, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2019, January 4). ERAU Shared Governance and Learning your Faculty Handbook. A 1-hour presentation for new faculty orientation at ERAU, Prescott, Arizona.


Nilsson, S. (2018, December 5). Eye see you up there, Keynote Speaker and Panel for Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Day at Arizona Western College, Yuma, Arizona.  

Nilsson, S. (2018, November 28). Why Reinvent the Wheel or Drone Law in the Case at. Bar, Article in the American Leadership and Policy Foundation (ALPF) Quarterly Update for October 2018.

Nilsson, S. (2018, November 17). The FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 and how it Pertains to UAS. Presentation with Ernie Copeland and the FAASTeam at the Southern Arizona Rescue Association, Tucson, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2018, November 10). UAS: Today and Tomorrow. Presentation for the Ninety Nines Organization, at ERAU, Prescott, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2018, November 8). The FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 and how it pertains to UAS. Presentation at the Arizona UAS Summit and Expo, Mesa, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2018, November 8). Remote Pilots Council Meeting. Presentation and Panel at the Arizona UAS Summit and Expo, with Tina Buskirk and Ernie Copeland for AUVSI Sahuaro Chapter, Mesa, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2018, October 19). UAS: Today and Tomorrow. Speaker for the College of Aviation for Parent’s Weekend at ERAU DLC, Prescott, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2018, October 13). Progress not Perfection. Keynote speaker with Michelle Parker Hight during lunch at Girls in Aviation Day at ERAU, Prescott, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2018, September 18). Federal, State and local policies in UAS Workshop. Presentation for Arizona Geographic Information Council (AGIC) Education and Training Symposium, Prescott Resort, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2018, June 16). WINGs Seminar on Runway Incursion and Surface Deviation Avoidance. Presentation with FAASafety Team, Brian Roggow, Ernie Copeland, and Todd Underwood, ERAU, Lower Hangar, Prescott, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2018, April 23). Legal Matters: Dexter A & P. FAA Scottsdale FSDO. Airworthiness Newsletter. FY18 3RD Quarter.

Nilsson, S. (2018, April 10). Interview for article in The Embry-Riddle Newsroom by Katharina Lane entitled Turning a Hobby into a Business: Key Considerations for sUAS. Available at https://news.erau.edu/headlines/turning-a-hobby-into-a-business-key-considerations-for-suas/

Nilsson, S. & Ledermann M. (2018, April 6). ATC Privatization… Legally Speaking…A Good Idea? Paper and poster presentation. National Committee on Undergraduate Research (NCUR) in conjunction with the ERAU Undergraduate Research Institute (URI).

Nilsson, S. (2018, January 30). Planning for Death. A 1-hour Workshop for Leadership Engagement and Development (LEAD) at ERAU, Prescott, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2018, January 14). Interview for article in the Daily Courier by Cindy Barks entitled Got a drone for Christmas? Experts say new users should keep a few things in mind. Available at https://www.dcourier.com/news/2018/jan/14/got-drone-christmas/

Nilsson, S. (2018, January 18). UAS: Laws and AZ LEA Guidance, Public Use Info. FAASTeam Presentation for the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) with Ernest Copeland and Tracy Lamb, Polsinelli Law Firm, Phoenix, Arizona.

Kadah, J., Young. J., Perry, J.C., Nilsson, S. & Spencer, B. (2017). Joint Unmanned Air Traffic Team Working to Improve UAS Safety. The EMBRY-RIDDLE Newsroom. http://news.erau.edu/headlines/joint-unmanned-air-traffic-team-workingto- improve-uas-safety/ 

Perry, J.C., Nilsson, S., Young, J., Holt, T.B., Spencer, B., & Luedtke, J. (2017). An Economic and Feasible Solution to Integrating Unmanned Aircraft into the National Airspace System. Arizona UAS Summit & Expo, Mesa, Arizona.

Perry, J.C., Young, J., Nilsson, S., Holt, T.B., Spencer, B., Cook. B., & Wilkerson, K.C. (2017). Unmanned Air Traffic Control in a Manned Air Traffic World:  An innovative solution to integrating unmanned air traffic into controlled airspace. University Aviation Association Conference, Riverside, California.

Nilsson, S. (2017, December 13). UAS: Laws and AZ LEA Guidance, Public Use Info. FAASTeam Safety Seminar with Ernest Copeland, Prescott City Hall, Prescott, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2017, November 30). Interview for article in Williamsburg Yorktown Daily by Steve Roberts entitled Hundreds of drones are in Williamsburg’s skies, what are your rights from the ground? Available at https://wydaily.com/2017/11/30/hundreds-of-drones-are-in-williamsburgs-skies-what-are-your-rights-from-the-ground-tek/

Nilsson, S. (2017, November 30). Wheel of Life. A 1-hour Workshop for Leadership Engagement and Development (LEAD) at ERAU, Prescott, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2017, November 8). The Law of the Land: How UAS Regulations at the State, Federal Level Will Shape the 2018 Industry. Presentation and Panel with Adam Hawkins, at the Arizona UAS Summit and Expo, Mesa, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2017, November 7). Remote Pilots Council Meeting. Presentation and Panel at the Arizona UAS Summit and Expo, with Tina Buskirk and Ernie Copeland for the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) Sahuaro Chapter, Mesa, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2017, October 28). UAS: Updates in Congress and from Presidential Memorandum. FAASTeam Safety Seminar, Copperstate Fly-In, Mesa Falcon Field, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2017, October 27). ATC Privatization, Good or Not? Undergraduate Research Institute (URI) Presentation for ERAU Parents Weekend, Prescott, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2017, October 27). UAS: A typical law class. 30-minute Presentation for ERAU Parents Weekend, Prescott, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2017, September 30). UAS law Part 1; UAS Laws Part 2; FAA Compliance Philosophy; BasicMed. Four roundtable panels at the Angel Flight West Tri-Wing Fly-In, Lake Havasu, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2017, September 21). Drones: Not just Toys, Lunch Keynote speaker at the Arizona Geographic Information Council (AGIC) Education and Training Symposium, Prescott, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2017, July 25). Eye in the Sky. FAASTeam Safety Seminar. Co-presented with Tina Buskirk, John Nunes, & Ernie Copeland, Peoria Police Department, Peoria, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2017, July 18). Interview for article in Asbury Park Press by Andrew J. Goudsward entitled, As Drone Industry Grows, A Fight Looms for Control of the Sky. Available at http://www.app.com/story/news/local/communitychange/2017/07/18/drone-industry-grows-fight-looms-control-sky/460402001/

Nilsson, S. (2017, June 27). Interview for article in The Daily Courier by Sue Tone entitled Goodwin Fire closes Highway 69 – No Drone Zone. Available at https://www.dcourier.com/news/2017/jun/27/goodwin-fire-closes-highway-69/

Nilsson, S. (2017, June 7). Interview for article in UAS Magazine by Miller, P. C. entitled Attorney lists pluses, minuses of Drone Federalism Act. Available at http://www.uasmagazine.com/articles/1705/attorney-lists-pluses-minuses-of-drone-federalism-act

Nilsson, S. (2017, May 24). Interview for The Show on KJZZ, NPR Phoenix, by Mark Brodie, entitled Court Ruling Strikes Down Hobby Drone Registration Rule.  Available at http://theshow.kjzz.org/content/480124/court-ruling-strikes-down-hobby-drone-registration-rule

Nilsson, S. (2017, May 23). Hot Topics: UAS Law. 2017 AzAA Spring Conference. Co-presented with Jeff Stempihar and Jose Medina, Prescott Resort and Conference Center, Prescott, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2017, May 20). Updates to UAS Law in AZ. FAASTeam Safety Seminar. Co-presented with Tina Buskirk, Jeremy Grogan, and Ernie Copeland, ASU, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2017, April 6). Updates to UAS Law in AZ: How to Protect Yourself Legally. Co-presented with John Nunes, Tina Buskirk, and Ernie Copeland, Sierra Vista Police Department, Sierra Vista, Arizona. 

Nilsson, S. (2017, April 5). Updates to UAS Law in AZ: How to Protect Yourself Legally. Co-presented with John Nunes, Tina Buskirk, and Ernie Copeland. April 5, AZ GIC meeting, Phoenix, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2017, March 16). Interview for article in UAS Magazine by Miller, P. C. entitled Author says U.S. has a bewildering array of UAS laws, Regulations. Available at http://www.uasmagazine.com/articles/1667/author-says-u-s-has-a-bewildering-array-of-uas-laws-regulations

Nilsson, S. (2017, February 24). Game of Drones: Part 107 and the Integration of UAS into the National Airspace System. Panel Presentation at the American Bar Association (ABA) Air & Space Law Update Conference, Washington, D.C.

Nilsson, S. (2017). Drones Across America. American Bar Association (ABA), Air & Space Law Forum, Washington, D.C.

Nilsson, S. (2017, February 7). UAS Operations and Rules. Co-presented with John Nunes, Tina Buskirk, and Ernie Copeland, Arizona Western College, Yuma, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2016, December 15). Interview for article in The Embry-Riddle Newsroom by Lacey McLaughlin entitled The Future of UAS: Q & A with Embry-Riddle Aviation Law Professor Sarah Nilsson. Available at http://news.erau.edu/headlines/the-future-of-uas-qa-with-embry-riddle-aviation-law-professor-sarah-nilsson/

Nilsson, S. (2016, November 8). Federal Preemption on UAS Laws: Necessity or Intrusion? Presentation and Panel at the Arizona UAS Summit and Expo, Scottsdale, Arizona. 

Nilsson, S. (2016, November 2). UAV Law and Risk Management. Presentation and Panel at the Commercial UAV Expo, Las Vegas, Nevada.

Nilsson, S. (2016, October 29). Updates to UAS Law in AZ: How to Protect Yourself Legally. FAASTeam Safety Seminar, Copperstate Fly-in, Falcon Field, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. & Stuckenberg, D. (2016, October 14). Article in The Tampa Bay Times entitled Don’t Forget that Drones started as Military Weapons. Available at http://www.tampabay.com/opinion/columns/column-dont-forget-that-drones-started-as-military-weapons/2298119

Nilsson, S. (2016, September 23). UAS: FAA Memo to Law Enforcement Agencies and AZ State UAS law. Presentation at the Arizona Law Enforcement Legal Advisers’ Association (ALELAA) Chandler Police Legal Advisor Unit, Chandler, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2016, August 23). What the US can learn from international UAS law. Presentation and proceedings to the 10th Annual UAS Summit and Expo, Grand Forks, North Dakota. 

Nilsson, S. (2016, June 28). Interview for article in The Arizona Republic by Yara Georgann entitled Extreme Aerial Productions: Drone hobby takes flight into business. Available at http://www.azcentral.com/story/money/business/abg/2016/06/28/extreme-aerial-productions-drone-hobby-takes-flight-into-business/84856252/ 

Nilsson, S. (2016, June 26). Interview for article in The Daily Courier by Orr, Scott entitled New Drone Rules Mean New Jobs. Available at http://www.dcourier.com/news/2016/jun/26/new-drone-rules-mean-new-jobs/

Nilsson, S. (2016, June 10). UAS Law CLE. Arizona Office of the Attorney General. Co-presented with AG Michael Hrnicek, Tina Buskirk, Ernie Copeland, and Jeremy Groban, Arizona Attorney General’s Office, Phoenix, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2016, May 12). Interview for feature article on ERAU, Prescott Campus website by Tissot, M., entitled UAS Courses Take Flight in Prescott. Available at http://prescott.erau.edu/features/faa-memo-clarifying-uas-education

Nilsson, S. (2016, April 30). What a great time to be Alive: A look at the Commercial Space and Unmanned Aircraft Industries. Keynote Speech at the Aviation Explorers Fundraising Dinner, Air Force National Guard, Phoenix Sky Harbor, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2016, April 12). UAS: Regulations in the NAS. FAASTeam Safety Seminar. Co-presented with Ernie Copeland, ERAU DLC, Prescott, Arizona. 

Nilsson, S. (2016, February 5). Podcast on Federal, State, and Local Drone Laws, Property Rights and Privacy. The Drone Law Pro – Enrico Schaefer. Available at https://www.dronelaw.pro/field-preemption-faa-trumps-state-local-drone-laws/

Nilsson, S. (2016, January 28). UAS: Regulations in the NAS. Presentation at Honeywell Flight Technical Services Safety Stand Down as part of FAASTeam, Deer Valley, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2016, January). UAS: Regulations in the NAS. FAASTeam Safety Seminar. January 16, 2016. Proceedings to A3IRCon 2016, Chandler, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2016, January 15). 2015 Commercial Space Industry Snapshot as seen through the eyes of the ISPCS. Proceedings to A3IRCon 2016, Chandler, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2016, January 15). A3ircon in Chandler. FOX 10 News at 7.39am in the Morning Show, Phoenix, Arizona. Available at FOX 10 News

Nilsson, S. (2015, December 22). Interview for article in UAS Magazine by Miller, P. C. entitled Studying UAS Regulations Overseas. Available at http://www.uasmagazine.com/blog/article/2016/01/studying-uas-regulations-overseas

Nilsson, S. (2015, December 22). Interview for article in UAS Magazine by Miller, P. C. entitled FAA had to Assert its Regulatory Authority. Available at http://www.uasmagazine.com/articles/1379/aviation-attorney-faa-had-to-assert-its-regulatory-authority

Nilsson, S. (2015, November 17). UAS: Regulations in the NAS. Presentation at Sanders

and Parks Law Office, Phoenix, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2015, October 24). UAS: Regulations in the NAS. FAASTeam Safety Seminar, Copperstate Fly-In, Casa Grande, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2015, October 10). UAS: Regulations v. Policy. FAASTeam Safety Seminar, Mesa-Gateway Airport, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2015, September 17). Interview for article in UAS Magazine by Miller, P. C. entitled States continue to Pass Laws in Conflict with FAA’s Authority. Available at http://www.uasmagazine.com/articles/1245/states-continue-to-pass-laws-in-conflict-with-faaundefineds-authority

Nilsson, S. (2015, September). In the Aftermath of Pirker: Questions of Policy Versus Law on Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS). Proceedings to The Citadel 2015 Intelligence and Homeland Security Enterprise Conference, Charleston, South Carolina.

Nilsson, S. (2015, September 15). Pilot Enforcement Action Presentation for Prescott Airport Users Association, Prescott Airport, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. (2015, September 5). Podcast on UAVs and the Law. The UAV Digest. Available at http://theuavdigest.com/uav111-uavs-and-the-law/

Nilsson, S. (2015, July 10). Podcast on Drones, the Law and the FAA. The Drone Dude. Available at http://www.dronedudepodcast.com/e/010-interview-with-aviation-lawyer-sarah-nilsson-about-drones-the-law-and-the-faa/

Nilsson, S. (2015, May 23). UAS: Regulations v. Policy. FAASTeam Safety Seminar, Mesa-Gateway Airport, Arizona.

Nilsson, S. & Hamilton, J. (2015). Practical Aviation and Aerospace Law (6th ed.). Chapter

18: Commercial Space Operations. Newcastle, WA, Aviation Supplies & Academics.

Nilsson, S. & Hamilton, J. (2015). Practical Aviation and Aerospace Law Workbook (6th ed.). Chapter 18: Commercial Space Operations. Newcastle, WA, Aviation Supplies & Academics.

Nilsson, S. (2015 August). In the Aftermath of Pirker: Questions of Policy Versus Law on Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS). Proceedings to The Citadel Conference on Intelligence and Security. 21 pps.

Nilsson, S. (2015, February). Pirker and Beyond: Questions of Policy Versus Law on Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS). Proceedings to A3IRCon 2015 at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. 21 pps.

Nilsson, S. (2014 April). A Circle Takes No Sides. Dissertation. Arizona Summit Law School. 45pps.

Nilsson, S. (2011 June). Relationship between Recent Flight Experience and Pilot Error General Aviation Accidents. Dissertation. Northcentral University. 192 pps.

EMBRY-RIDDLE AERONAUTICAL UNIVERSITY, Prescott, AZ    

May 2020 – Present

Associate Professor of Aviation Law and Regulations with Tenure


EMBRY-RIDDLE AERONAUTICAL UNIVERSITY, Prescott, AZ 

January 2015 – May 2020

Assistant Professor of Aviation Law and Regulations ​


Embry-Riddle: Worldwide Campus - Office of Professional Education


FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION, Phoenix, AZ                  January 2015 – Present

FAASTeam Representative

Aviation safety volunteer who works closely with Federal Aviation Administration Safety Team (FAASTeam) Program Managers to actively promote safety. Training and support are given by the FAASTeam Program Managers. Duties include teaching safety seminars and assisting with organization and implementation of training.


ILSSON LAW, PLLC, Peoria, AZ                                                       October 2014 – Present

Founder and Managing Attorney

Opened solo practice law firm upon passing the Arizona State Bar Exam and being officially sworn in as a member of the Bar. Primary focus of the firm is business formation, contracts, estate planning, aviation and space law, mediation and circle justice. Unique aspect of the firm is the 24-hour access that clients have to a live attorney who is always on call! Additionally, most business is transacted over the phone or online for convenience of the client, and when documents need to be signed and notarized, the attorney and notary make business/house calls.


ARIZONA SUMMIT LAW SCHOOL, Phoenix, AZ             December 2014 – February 2015

Alumni Bar Prep Coach

Mentored five students who were preparing to sit the February Bar Exam in Arizona. Provided motivation, good study techniques, stress coping mechanisms, time management advice and academic preparation. Graded Multistate Essay Examinations (MEEs) and Multistate Performance Tests (MPTs). Met with school leadership throughout the process on a weekly basis to devise and implement best strategies for their success.


NEAL LAW FIRM, PLC, Scottsdale, AZ                                    January 2014 – August 2014

Law Clerk

Worked with Clio and WealthCounsel in the law office of Abigail Neal, specializing in estate planning (wills and trusts), informal probate and business formation (limited liability companies, limited partnerships and limited liability partnerships, corporations, nonprofit corporations and 501(c)(3) charities). Filed annual reports and worked closely with the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) on several business formations. Wrote a company-training manual.


ARIZONA SUMMIT LAW SCHOOL, Phoenix, AZ                        January 2014 – April 2014

Teacher Assistant

Assisted Professor Millar in the Spring 2014 trimester with two courses: criminal procedure and advanced legal writing and advocacy. Taught class presentations to help the students grasp the course concepts. Graded several quizzes and tests. Performed limited amounts of legal research.


INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, Phoenix, AZ                        December 2013 – April 2014

VITA/TCE Volunteer

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program generally offers free tax help to people who make $51,000 or less and need assistance in preparing their own tax returns. As an Internal Revenue Service (IRS)-certified volunteer I provided free basic income tax return preparation with electronic filing to qualified individuals in local communities. I could inform taxpayers about special tax credits for which they may qualify such as Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and Credit for the Elderly or the Disabled. VITA sites are generally located at community and neighborhood centers, libraries, schools, shopping malls, and other convenient locations. The Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) Program offers free tax help for all with priority assistance to people who are 60 years of age and older, specializing in questions about pensions and retirement issues unique to seniors.  


CURRY, PEARSON & WOOTEN, PLC, Phoenix, AZ     November 2012 – December 2014

Legal Externship

Assisted Attorney Michael Pearson with legal research and writing, drafted motions, and edited documents for distribution to clients. Learned 1&1 software and created web pages with legal content in the areas of FAA pilot enforcement and other aviation issues.


ARIZONA SUMMIT LAW SCHOOL, Phoenix, AZ                     July 2013 – December 2013

Mediator

Worked in the Law School’s Mediation Clinic and on site with the City of Phoenix and was assigned mediations dealing in dog-barking issues. Worked in the Maricopa County Justice Court assigned to mediate various cases involving contract disputes, debt collections, homeowner’s association (HOA) disputes and other small claims cases.


SOUTH MOUNTAIN HIGH SCHOOL, Phoenix, AZ                     July 2007 – February 2013

Program Manager of Aerospace Magnet

Provided leadership and support to approximately 2 to 3 other teachers and 200 students within the Aerospace Department each year. Managed the department’s budget and coordinated on a monthly basis with the district’s leadership and the other magnet of the Phoenix Union High School District. Sat on South Mountain High School’s Instructional Cabinet. Partnered with industry flight school, Chandler Air Service and coordinated flight training at Chandler Airport for the flight students enrolled in the Aerospace Magnet.


SOUTH MOUNTAIN HIGH SCHOOL, Phoenix, AZ                     July 2004 – February 2013

Flight Instructor of Aerospace Magnet

Provided flight and ground school training to approximately 50 students within the Aerospace Magnet each year. Partnered with industry flight school, Chandler Air Service and coordinated flight training at Chandler Airport for the flight students enrolled in the Aerospace Magnet. Sponsored the Flight Team, a high school club for future aviators.


US AIRWAYS, Phoenix, AZ                                                     June 2006 – September 2006

Intern

Interned with the Vice President of Flight Operations, Captain Joe Chronic. Worked within the aviation safety office while working on my Masters of Aeronautical Science Degree at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Performed a study comparing US Airways’ inadvertent emergency slide deployment with industry trends. This study, presented to the airline’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Doug Parker, was later published in their internal newsletter.


SPORTS CLUB AT CITY SQUARE, Phoenix, AZ                    September 2003 – July 2004

Assistant Director

Worked with Director, Al Ezrre of Pro-Fit Inc. Performed bookkeeping tasks, client billing and payroll services. Hired aerobics instructors and personal trainers. Managed the fitness center. Provided in-house training for the staff. Handled customer service issues with clients.

Personal Trainer and Aerobics Instructor

Provided personal training, one-on-one, to clients. Counseled clients on living a healthier lifestyle. Taught classes in Step Aerobics, Stretch and Strength Training, Senior Fitness, Kickboxing, and Low-Impact Aerobics.


CRM, Scottsdale, AZ                                                                      June 2003 – August 2003

Flight Instructor - CFI, CFII, MEI

Performed the duties of a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certificated flight instructor. Created and implemented a ground school class for Citation Ce-500 type rating training. Assisted in class presentations. Photographed aircraft parts and created PowerPoint slides for use during the ground school portion of the class.


EMBRY-RIDDLE AERONAUTICAL UNIVERSITY, Phoenix, AZ    May 2003 – August 2003

Assistant Center Director

Enrolled students into the various bachelor’s or master’s degree programs. Assisted the Center Director with regards to meetings, public relations, facilities, scheduling and staffing.


CUTTER AVIATION, Phoenix, AZ                                                  May 2003 – August 2003

Customer Service Representative

Provided interface between private jets and ramp personnel with respect to catering and fuel services. Drove the courtesy van between the fixed-base operator (FBO) and Sky Harbor’s main terminals.


AEX INC., Phoenix, AZ                                                                       April 2002 – April 2003

Part 135 Cargo Pilot

Flew air cargo missions in Piper Navajo, Piper Seneca III and IV aircraft between Arizona, California, New Mexico, Nevada and Utah. Primarily instrument flights, mostly at night and some day. Received Hazmat certification for the purpose of carrying radioactive isotopes to the VA Hospital in Albuquerque, New Mexico from Phoenix, Arizona.


CRM, Scottsdale, AZ                                                                     January 2002 – April 2002

Flight Instructor - CFI, CFII, MEI

Performed the duties of a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certificated flight instructor. Trained students for private, instrument, commercial, and multi-engine certificates.


WESTWIND SCHOOL OF AERONAUTICS, Deer Valley, AZ       Nov 2000 – January 2002

Flight Instructor - CFI, CFII

Performed the duties of a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certificated flight instructor. Trained students for private, instrument, and commercial pilot certificates.


PHOENIX PLAZA FITNESS CENTER, Phoenix, AZ            August 1999 – November 2000

Assistant Director

Worked with Director, Al Ezrre of Pro-Fit Inc. Performed bookkeeping tasks, client billing and payroll services. Hired aerobics instructors and personal trainers. Managed the fitness center. Provided in-house training for the staff. Handled customer service issues with clients.


PHOENIX PLAZA FITNESS CENTER, Phoenix, AZ      September 1997 – November 2000

Personal Trainer and Aerobics Instructor

Provided personal training, one-on-one, to clients. Counseled clients on living a healthier lifestyle. Taught classes in Step Aerobics, Stretch and Strength Training, Senior Fitness, Kickboxing, and Low-Impact Aerobics.


NATURALLY WOMEN FITNESS CENTER, Phoenix, AZ       September 1995 – June 1997

Personal Trainer and Aerobics Instructor

Provided personal training, one-on-one, to clients. Counseled clients on living a healthier lifestyle. Taught classes in Step Aerobics, Stretch and Strength Training, Senior Fitness, Kickboxing, and Low-Impact Aerobics.

- March 2024-Present, Senior Academic, Advanced Air Mobility Institute

- May 2020-2021, Angel Flight West, Command Pilot

- February 2018-Present, Phi Kappa Phi (PKP), invited by ERAU-Prescott Campus Chapter as part of Top Researcher Award

- 2016-2019, Transportation Research Board (TRB), The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, Medicine, Standing Committee on Aviation Security and Emergency Management, Committee Member

- January 2016-Present, American Leadership and Policy Foundation (ALPF), Senior Fellow

- 2015-2018, Women in Aviation, International (WAI), ERAU, Prescott Campus Chapter, Co-Advisor

- 2014-Present, International Air and Transportation Safety Bar Association (IATSBA), Member

- December 2014-Present, United States District Court of Arizona, Member

- December 2014-December 2014, Young Lawyers Division (YLD) of Maricopa County Bar Association (MCBA), Board Member

- October 2014-Present, State Bar of Arizona, Member

- August 2014-December 2014, Arizona Summit Law School Alumni Association, Board Member, Chair of Communications

- 2014-Present, Arizona Pilots Association, Member

- 2012-Present, Phi Alpha Delta (PAD) International Law Fraternity, Goldwater Chapter, Lifetime Member

- 2012-2013, Arizona Summit Law School, Student Bar Association, Evening Student Delegate

- 2012-2014, Arizona Summit Law School, Aviation Law Student Association, President

- 2011-Present, American Bar Association, Member

- 2011-2013, Arizona Summit Law School, Night Student Society, Member

- 2002-2003, 2012-Present, Women in Aviation, International (WAI), Member

- 2003-2004, 2014-2015, National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI), Member

- 2003-2005, Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), Member

- 1998-Present, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), Member

- May 2024, College of Aviation Class Marshal, Commencement

- November 21, 2023, ERAU CTLE, Innovative Teaching Grant (ITG) Award, for use in the Spring 2024 Semester

- September 27, 2023, ERAU, IT, Tracy Parodi’s Nearpod User of the Month (making COA-PC the winner too). Video at https://erau.instructuremedia.com/embed/757223e1-464c-4f9d-af11-4ca45cc8d587

- May 5, 2023, ERAU College of Aviation, Teaching Satisfaction Award

- March 9, 2023, Textbook Affordability Champion 2023, Open Education Resources and Eagle Pubs, DB-PC-WW

- May 2022, Open Textbook Creation Grant, CTLE, Pressbooks, and Hazy Library

- December 2021, College of Aviation Class Marshal, Commencement

- May 6, 2021, ERAU, College of Aviation John H. Jenkins, Faculty Service Award

- January 23, 2021, FAA Safety Team Rep of the Year Award for AZ

- January 23, 2021, FAA Safety Team Rep of the Year for Pink Region

- April 8, 2020, ERAU, Promotion to Associate Professor with Tenure

- April 17, 2019, ERAU, Strategic Implementation Team (SIT) 4 High Performing Research Member for College of Aviation

- April 2, 2019, ERAU, Service Award at the Prescott Campus

- April 2, 2019, ERAU, College of Aviation, Service Award

- February 28, 2019, ERAU, Scholarly Speaking Award

- April 17, 2018, ERAU, Top Researcher at the Prescott Campus Award and invite into Phi Kappa Phi (PKP) Honor Society

- April 17, 2018, ERAU, College of Aviation, Research/Scholarship/Design Award

- March 29, 2018, ERAU, Scholarly Speaking Award

- December 2017, College of Aviation Class Marshal, Commencement

- 2017, Arizona Geographic Information Council (AGIC), Special Recognition of my support and contribution at the 2017 Education and Training Symposium

- 2017, ERAU, Student Engagement, Certificate for dedication and service to the Leadership Engagement and Development (LEAD) Program, 2016 - 2017

- 2017, FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam), Scottsdale Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), Certificate of Appreciation, Aviation Safety Award, 2016 - 2017

- 2017, ERAU, College of Aviation, Faculty of the Year for Research Award, 2016 - 2017

- 2017, ERAU, Department of Student Engagement, Certificate of Appreciation for contribution as Organization Advisor

- April 13, 2017, ERAU, Scholarly Speaking Award

- 2016, ERAU, College of Aviation, Outstanding Faculty of the Year Award, 2015 - 2016

- September 2016, ERAU, Certificate of Appreciation for Outstanding Contributions in UAS

- March 31, 2016, ERAU, Scholarly Speaking Award

- 2016, FAA, Remote Pilot in Command (PIC) Certificate with small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) rating

- 2014 - Present, Arizona Secretary of State, Notary Public

- 2014, Arizona Summit Law School, Dean’s List since 2012

- 2014, Arizona Summit Law School, CALI Award in Business Associations

- 2014, Arizona Summit Law School, Order of the Quill Award

- 2014, Arizona Summit Law School, Merit Scholarship recipient since 2011

- 2014, Arizona Summit Law School, Community Service (Pro Bono) Certificate

- 2013, Arizona Summit Law School, Basic Mediation Certificate

- 2013, National Conference of Bar Examiners, Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination

- 2012, South Mountain High School, Over and Beyond the Call of Duty Award

- 2011, Northcentral University, College of Business and Technology Management, Dean’s List since 2007

- 2011, South Mountain High School, PBIS Staff Member of the Week Award

- 2011, South Mountain High School, Principal’s Top 3 Award

- 2008, Arizona Department of Education, Structured English Immersion K-12 Endorsement

- 2007, South Mountain High School, Teacher of the Week, Smoothie Award

- 2006, ERAU, College of Aeronautical Science, Dean’s List since 2003

- 2004, Arizona Department of Education, Standard Career & Technical Education Certificate, Business and Marketing

- 2003, ERAU, College of Professional Aeronautics, Dean’s List since 2000

- 2003-Present, FAA, Airline Transport Pilot Certificate, Airplane Multi-Engine Land

- 2003, FAA, Citation Ce-500 Type Rating

- 2002-Present, FAA, Basic Ground Instructor Rating

- 2002-Present, FAA, Advanced Ground Instructor Rating

- 2002-Present, FAA, Instrument Ground Instructor Rating

- 2002-Present, FAA, Gold Seal Flight Instructor Rating

- 2000-Present, FAA, Commercial Pilot Certificate, Airplane Single-Engine Land with Instrument Rating

- 2000-Present, FAA, Certificated Flight Instructor, Airplane, Single-Engine Land

- 2000, Civil Air Patrol, Charles E. “Chuck” Yeager Aerospace Education Achievement Award

- 1999, Kickfit Kickboxing Certified Instructor

- 1999, International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA), Fitness Therapy certified

- 1998, American Council on Exercise (ACE)-certified Aerobics Instructor

- 1998, Senior Fitness Association (SFA), Older Adult Fitness certified

- 1997, 1998, 1999, Healthcare Dimensions, Inc., Silversneakers Senior Fitness certified

- 1996, 1998, 2004, American Council on Exercise (ACE)-certified Personal Trainer

- 1996, 2004, American Council on Exercise (ACE)-certified Group Fitness Instructor

- 1993, Qigong Association, Malta, Level 1 Certification

- 1992, International Correspondence Schools (ICS) Learning Centers, UK, Fitness & Nutrition Diploma

- 1992, Bok-Chuan Pai Kung Fu, Nunchakus/Self-Defense

- 1992, Bok-Chuan Pai Kung Fu, Tonfas, Black Belt

- 1991, Bok-Chuan Pai Kung Fu, Blue Sash I

- 1990, Bok-Chuan Pai Kung Fu, Self-Defense/Street Fighting

- 1990, Bok-Chuan Pai Kung Fu, Green Sash I & II

- 1989, Bok-Chuan Pai Kung Fu, Orange Sash I & II

- 1989, Bok-Chuan Pai Kung Fu, Junior Instructor

- 1989, Bok-Chuan Pai Kung Fu, Yellow Sash

- 1988, Bok-Chuan Pai Kung Fu, White Sash

- 1988, Bok-Chuan Pai Kung Fu, Certificate of Merit

- 1984, British Theatre Dance Association, Malta, Gold Medal Ballet

- 1984, British Theatre Dance Association, Malta, Grade III Ballet

- 1983, British Theatre Dance Association, Malta, Grade II Ballet

- 1983, British Theatre Dance Association, Malta, Grade II Modern

- 1983, The Alison White Dance Studio, Malta, Certificate of Merit

- 1982, British Theatre Dance Association, Malta, Grade I Ballet

- 1982, British Theatre Dance Association, Malta, Grade I Modern