- May 7, 2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University celebrated the groundbreaking of a new ROTC complex at its Daytona Beach campus on Wednesday, May 6.
The state-of-the-art facility will serve Embry-Riddle's U.S. Air Force, Army and Navy ROTC programs, according to a press release. The programs have almost 800 cadets and midshipmen.
The new 28,000-square-foot, two-story building will house leadership-focused education spaces, including technologically advanced classrooms and a 100-seat auditorium. The facility will also include a computer lab, mission-specific simulators, program support offices and student collaboration spaces, as well as an outdoor plaza for drill training and ceremonies.
“When you see what these cadets and midshipmen accomplish, you understand that we are shaping the officers who will lead our military for decades to come,” said retired U.S. Air Force Gen. Jacqueline D. Van Ovost, who serves on Embry-Riddle’s Board of Trustees. “The new facility isn't just a building — it's an investment in their readiness and in expanded opportunities to grow, lead and serve. It is a visible, lasting commitment to the young men and women who will go on to defend our nation, and the entire Embry-Riddle community should take tremendous pride in making it possible.”
The complex will also have a memorial site honoring Embry-Riddle alums who have died while in the military. The university expects to open the complex in fall 2027, on the east side of Clyde Morris Boulevard at the Daytona campus.
“Embry-Riddle’s ROTC programs have a longstanding tradition of preparing some of the finest and most dedicated officers for our nation’s military,” Embry-Riddle President P. Barry Butler said. "This facility is not only a commitment to these students who go on to serve our nation but also shows our dedication to helping them reach their academic, military and leadership goals.”
Through Embry-Riddle's ROTC programs at Daytona, more than 750 graduates have been commissioned as officers in the Air Force, Space Force, Army, Navy and Marine Corps over the past five years, according to the university. Embry-Riddle has the second-largest Air Force program in the nation, with about 50 cadets; more than 313 officers have been commissioned over the past five fiscal years.
Since 2022, it has ranked among the top 10% of all 145 detachments nationwide.
Embry-Riddle's Army ROTC has more than 150 cadets and has commissioned 246 officers over the past five years. The Navy ROTC program has more than 100 midshipmen and has commissioned 198 officers in the same period. About 30 naval and 1 Marine officers are commissioned yearly.
“The state of Florida is a strong supporter of the brave men and women who defend America,” said Florida Rep. Jennifer Canady, who spoke at the groundbreaking. “This facility is a powerful investment by Embry-Riddle in their success and their commitment to serve our great nation.”
