Surf Air co-founder, Wade Eyerly shares lessons on innovation, adopting an investor mindset, and career strategy with UVU students at the Reed and Christine Halladay Executive Lecture Series.
Wade began by briefly establishing his background before shifting his focus to the experiences that shaped his career. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in international economic policy and cross-cultural relations from the University of Central Missouri and later worked with the White House, the Pentagon and the U.S. Department of Defense. These roles deepened his understanding of leadership, economics, complex systems, and large-scale decision-making.
He later transitioned into entrepreneurship, co-founding Surf Air with his brother. Surf Air introduced a subscription-based airline model that allowed frequent travelers to pay a monthly fee instead of purchasing individual tickets. Wade used this example to illustrate how rethinking traditional business models can uncover significant market opportunities.
A central theme of his remarks was identity. Wade described growing up in an environment where tradition was common but exposure was limited. That experience shaped his belief that entrepreneurship and being a “misfit” often go hand in hand. He encouraged students to view uncertainty as an advantage, noting that those willing to question assumptions are often best positioned to innovate.
Wade emphasized the importance of the signals individuals send to employers, investors and team members. He advised students to clearly define their goals and work backward to align their actions with those ambitions. One of his most memorable insights was the concept of “hanging a lantern on it”: being transparent and intentional about who you are so others can more clearly understand your strengths and potential.
He also challenged students to evaluate themselves from an investor’s perspective. External decision-makers, he explained, often assess potential and risk differently than individuals do. Learning to see yourself through that lens can be a powerful career advantage.
Throughout the discussion, Wade used stories and analogies to engage the audience and illustrate key ideas. During the Q&A session, he offered practical examples and encouraged dialogue, creating a collaborative and interactive atmosphere.
Wade concluded by reminding students that sustainable careers are built around genuine fulfillment. He encouraged them to identify what brings meaning and satisfaction, then use that clarity to guide their professional decisions.
The Woodbury School of Business extends sincere thanks to Wade Eyerly for sharing his insights and experience. His message reinforced the importance of self-awareness, intentional positioning, and curiosity in building meaningful and effective careers.
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Watch Wade Eyerly's full lecture below.
