College life is more than academics. Student organizations, research and internships enhance the college experience and support career goals.
As a student, Alexanderia Crotts made the most of her university experience. Crotts graduated from the Hicks Honors College at the University of North Florida in the spring of 2024. She majored in both Transportation & Logistics and Economics, paired with a double minor in Leadership and Digital Marketing & Analytics.
Crotts is a Logistics Management Specialist at The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) in Jacksonville. NAVAIR’s mission is to provide full life-cycle support for naval aviation aircraft, weapons and systems. NAVAIR hires both military and civilian professionals. In her role as a logistician, Crotts serves as an integral part of NAVAIR’s capability to deliver and support airborne weapon systems used by the Navy and Marines across the globe.
“The most rewarding aspect of my work is knowing that my contributions help support the men and women who are serving and protecting our country,” Crotts said. “The work I do directly supports national defense, which is both meaningful and fulfilling.”
In addition to understanding logistics operations and management, Crotts’ role requires strong communication and time management skills, the ability to work well in a team environment and proficiency in tools like Excel for analyzing data and optimizing processes.
“The supply chain constantly evolves, and success lies in adapting to change,” Crotts said. “My role involves staying flexible and responsive to ever-changing demands and ensuring that the warfighter has what it needs to run smoothly and efficiently.”
Crotts was inspired to be a Transportation and Logistics major at UNF because she enjoys making processes more efficient and recognizes the value supply chains provide. As a student, Crotts was actively involved in on- and off-campus student organizations including as a liaison to the JAX Chamber Transportation and Logistics Council. Crotts completed five internships including with Magellan Transport Logistics, Crowley, Bacardi and Southeastern Grocers, among others. At UNF, which partners with industry leaders to ensure students are prepared for the workforce, these real-world experiences offered Crotts a way to learn beyond the textbook.
“My internships helped me gain understanding of the industry, identify what I’m most passionate about and discover the areas I want to pursue in my career,” Crotts said.
Crotts participated in the Intermodal Association of North America Case Competition three times, twice as the UNF representative in Jacksonville and once as the UNF Team Lead in California. She participated in the research project, “Leveraging Intermodal Capability to Build Port Capacity,” with Dr. Dawn Russell. For her Honors Capstone, Crotts worked to expand the relationships of the UNF Transportation and Logistics Society from two professional organizations to five in the Jacksonville community.
“These activities were enjoyable and allowed me to expand my network, connecting with peers, professors, UNF alumni and the Jacksonville business community,” Crotts said.
Crotts received the UNF Osprey Community Engagement Medallion, which recognizes students who demonstrate exemplary commitment to the community through their activities and engagement during their years as a UNF student. Crotts recommends all students make the most of their university experience.
“Getting involved allowed me to form relationships that I cherish and gave me the ability to learn academically and professionally during my undergraduate career,” Crotts said. “Involvement as a student helps you connect with professionals that you otherwise would not meet and build relationships that can support your career growth.”
The opinions and views expressed belong solely to Alexanderia Crotts and do not necessarily reflect those of the Department of Defense (DoD) or its components.