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Matthew Thornton
Master of Public Administration, Auburn University '26

Matthew Thornton
Master of Public Administration student focusing on Economic Development
(334) 750-5094
About Me
MY BACKGROUND
Born and Raised in Auburn, Alabama, I graduated from Auburn High School in 2020. I attended Auburn University for my undergraduate degree in Aviation Management while working two jobs: a part-time Line Crew Technician at the Auburn University Regional Airport and a full-time Student Firefighter at the Auburn Fire Department. These positions taught me the value of public service through interacting with the Auburn community in many settings and capacities. Influenced by those experiences, I am pursuing a Master's in Public Administration while continuing my efforts in the fire service. I plan to graduate in the Spring of 2026 and aspire to use my knowledge and expertise in an administrative role within the government.
Education
WHAT I’VE LEARNED
Auburn University
Auburn, AL; Class of 2026
Master's of Public Administration - MPA; Economic Development
Experience
WHERE I’VE WORKED
Firefighter
Auburn Fire Department, May 2022 - Present
Line Crew Technician
Auburn University
Auburn, AL; Class of 2024
Bachelor of Science - BS; Aviation Management
Auburn University Regional Airport, April 2021 - May 2024
Food Handler/Cashier
Bow & Arrow, November 2018 - December 2019
Auburn High School
Auburn, AL; Class of 2020
Certificate of Achievement: Business Management and Administration
Awards, Honors, Associations
Eagle Scout, Boy Scouts of America
Dean's List, Auburn University College of Liberal Arts
Student Member, American Association of Airport Executives
Student Member, International City Management Association
Student Member, American Planning Association
Certifications
Firefighter I & II, Alabama Fire College
Emergency Vehicle Driver & Apparatus Operator: Pumper, Alabama Fire College
Hazardous Materials/WMD - Awareness & Operations, Alabama Fire College
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ICS-100, ICS-200, IS-700, & IS-800, Federal Emergency Management Association
Intro to Fuel Quality Control, Ramp Operations, and Aircraft Towing, National Air Transportation Association
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