Dr. Aric J. Raus is an Assistant Professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and a researcher specializing in the integration of mental health, human performance, and organizational culture in aviation safety. His work focuses on understanding how psychological well-being influences operational decision-making and safety outcomes across the aviation community. A retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, Dr. Raus led aviation units in combat and peacekeeping operations, while simultaneously serving as a UH-60 Black Hawk Pilot-in-Command and Maintenance Test Pilot. His 30+ years of experience in civilian and military aviation operations inform his research and approach to advancing practical, system-level safety improvements. He currently leads the development of the Accident Investigation Mental Health Job Aid (AIMHJA), an international research initiative designed to help investigators identify mental health and human-performance factors in aviation incidents. Dr. Raus also collaborates with the U.S. Air Force’s Aircrew Brain and Mental Health Research Program, while contributing to aviation safety and human factors efforts through the Aerospace Medical Association and the Aerospace Human Factors Association. His work emphasizes reframing mental health as a safety factor and promoting help-seeking as a normal and necessary behavior within aviation organizations. Through research, teaching, and industry collaboration, Dr. Raus seeks to support safer operations and healthier aviation professionals. Dr. Raus is a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society, a Chartered Member of the British Psychological Society, and a recipient of the Order of Saint Michael from the Army Aviation Association of America.