CSUMB accounting alums Nicole Velichko (Class of 2016) and Anthony Ukestad (Class of 2017) joined Professional Development Specialist Omar Perez-Sandoval and Senior Financial Analyst Chris Kage welcomed two groups of CSUMB accounting students in tours of Joby Aviation’s Marina manufacturing and research facility. Joby Aviation is based in Santa Cruz, California, and it designs and manufactures electric aircraft.

Finance Manager Ukestad explained the forward-looking focus of corporate finance: “We forecast every expenditure—from raw materials to indirect costs—as we develop our new aircraft designs.” Senior Tax Manager Velichko explained the importance of accounting systems in securing tax credits: “To claim tax credits, we use sophisticated accounting systems to track vast amounts of data, from purchase orders and labor costs to capital expenditures. I model all these costs into the system, verify them with each department, and submit the appropriate tax forms.”

Perez-Sandoval and Kage introduced students to Joby’s innovative vision: hydrogen-electric aircraft that can take off and land vertically in compact skyports—potentially as small as a neighborhood playground. Students were inspired by the passionate Joby employees and the company’s vision.

“It’s nice to see that [CSUMB students have] succeeded and are enjoying their careers!” said junior Lucas Lyon. Senior Jocelyn Carranza shared her enthusiasm: “I can’t wait for the future …[being]… able to Uber one of their aircraft!”

Junior Garima Gurung highlighted Joby’s sustainability efforts, remarking that she was “…very impressed by
[Joby’s] commitment to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing urban mobility.”

A huge thank you to Anthony, Nicole, Omar, and Chris for showing our students how accounting plays a vital role in making visionary ideas a reality!