Adrian Solorzano

We are delighted to introduce alumnus Adrian Solorzano who overcame significant challenges during his time as a student at Broward College. Powered by his own determination to succeed and with supportive faculty at his side, he ultimately excelled earning both an Associate of Art and a Bachelor of Applied Science Cum laude. Building on that solid foundation, Adrian has continued to persevere and pursue his boundless intellectual curiosity, achieving multiple master's degrees and benefitting from valuable internships. Currently working at HCA Healthcare, Adrian has a vision to bridge healthcare and aerospace in his career journey.

Adrian, where did you grow up and what motivated you to pursue studies at Broward College?

I grew up in South Florida, and like many in our community, I faced both financial and personal challenges early on. Born in Venezuela, I had to provide financial support for my family despite living with disabilities but that only fueled my determination to keep pushing forward and become better.

What motivated me to study at Broward College was a strong desire to change the trajectory of my life and support my family without taking on massive debt. BC offered an affordable, high-quality education with flexible options that made higher education possible for someone like me.

Can you tell us about one or two moments that stand out about your time at the College?

One moment that stands out was being accepted into the Supply Chain Management bachelor's program. It was a pivotal milestone not just academically, but personally. I had finally found a field that aligned with both my curiosity and practical strengths at the time.

Another standout moment was my very first class at BC a developmental math course. The professor, affectionately known as "Teach" (Bowen), helped me rekindle my love for math and reignite my interest in science. He was incredibly patient with everyone, and you could feel that he truly wanted every student to succeed, no matter their hardships.

Did you have any favorite professors or people at the College who were important to you as a student?

Yes, there were several. One professor didn’t just teach the material he challenged us to think critically, analyze systems, and connect our coursework to real-world industries. His mentorship prepared me for the diverse, multidisciplinary environments I would later navigate in healthcare, aerospace, and beyond.

That said, the professor who had the biggest impact on me was Bowen. He made me believe that I could learn anything I set my mind to. His encouragement stayed with me throughout my academic and professional journey.

Were there any resources at the College that were important to you when you were a student?

The greatest resource I had at BC was the faculty. The professors who pushed me beyond my limits helped me grow not just academically, but as a human being. These were educators who weren’t just there for a paycheck you knew they were committed to helping you cross the finish line. That kind of support is rare and invaluable.

During my time at BC, I went through some of the most difficult experiences of my life going through a divorce, losing my daughter, being laid off, and even losing my home. Broward College accommodated me with empathy and flexibility. They didn’t just see me as a student; they treated me like a person going through something real. Their compassion and support made it possible for me to keep going when giving up would have been easier. That kind of care is something I’ll never forget.

Where did you go after Broward College? How did what you learn at the College prepare you for your next steps?

After graduating from BC, I went on to pursue multiple master’s degrees including an MBA, an MS in Management and Leadership, and currently a Master’s in Healthcare Administration.

Immediately after BC, I interned at Coastal Construction in Miami, where I supported logistics operations across several high-impact projects including the Aston Martin Residences, one of the most iconic developments in the city. That role helped me sharpen my skills in vendor coordination, material planning, and real-time problem-solving.

I then interned with the International Air Transport Association (IATA), where I had the privilege of attending global aviation summits and meeting directors from Boeing and Airbus, as well as CEOs of major airlines. I also participated in the Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC), where I worked on a planetary defense project alongside a NASA employee, focused on future space policy.

Through NASA’s L’SPACE Academy, I had the incredible opportunity to collaborate with top student scientists and engineers from across the country on real-world mission architecture, systems design, and planetary exploration projects. I also completed an astrodynamics internship with STAR in India, where I deepened my understanding of orbital mechanics using GMAT.

 All of these experiences were built on the foundation BC gave me especially in critical thinking, strategic planning, and cross-functional teamwork.

Tell us about your work now or plans.

I currently serve as an Equipment Coordinator at HCA Healthcare, where I oversee supply chain operations in a high-stakes medical environment. My role involves ensuring the timely availability of surgical equipment, optimizing operational workflows, and improving system efficiency.

Long-term, I plan to bridge the worlds of healthcare and aerospace by advancing into roles focused on human factors, systems engineering, and space medicine. I’m currently pursuing my PMP certification and plan to resume my analytics coursework at Georgia Tech. My ultimate goal is to earn a PhD in Human Factors Engineering at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

How would you encourage students interested in following a path similar to yours?

Start where you are and never let anyone define your limits. Take full advantage of everything Broward College offers—internships, join clubs (I joined 4) academic advising, mentorships, mental health services and accommodations. These opportunities can become steppingstones to something much bigger.

Stay open to pivoting into new industries and apply your skills broadly. I started in supply chain, but what I learned at BC has helped me thrive in healthcare, aerospace, and global research projects. Your degree isn’t a finish line it’s a launchpad.

How important was your degree from Broward College in getting you to your goals?

It was absolutely essential. My degree from BC wasn’t just a piece of paper it was the first time I truly believed in my potential. It gave me the confidence to pursue advanced education, opened doors to internships with major global organizations, and shaped the professional mindset I bring to every project.

 And most importantly, it helped me build lifelong connections that made all the difference.

What do you wish other people knew about Broward College—something that makes it stand out among other institutions?

Broward College is one of the most underrated institutions out there. It’s a place where first-generation students, working professionals, and ambitious learners can find a true path forward. The faculty genuinely cares, the programs are career-focused, and the support system is unmatched.

Finally, can you share a short testimonial about your thoughts or feelings about the College?

Broward College gave me more than just an education. From working on multimillion-dollar construction projects to collaborating with NASA-affiliated teams, meeting aviation leaders from Boeing and Airbus, and now supporting top physicians in healthcare none of it would have been possible without the foundation BC gave me.

 It taught me that no matter what your background or obstacles, greatness is possible when you're given the right tools, support, and belief.