David Sperling
Senior Aviation Planner
C&S Companies, Inc.
Read more about David
When did you join SWAAAE and what motivated you to do so?
I joined SWAAAE in 2000 to connect with the airport and consultant community when I moved back to the Phoenix area.
What is your professional background?
I have been an airport consultant for 23 years; 18 years with a large multi-national firm, and the past 5 years at C&S. I have also taught the airport management and planning curriculum at Arizona State University for the past 7 years, and served on the Chandler Airport Commission for 7 years and am serving my third term as Chair.
Who was the greatest influence in your aviation career?
I had a professor in college for several courses whose passion for aviation affirmed that this was the field for me. Also, my first boss allowed me to grow by giving me responsibilities and project management assignments beyond what I expected.
Do you have any favorite past times or hobbies, and/or would you like to share about your family or pets?
Outside of work, I spend my time with family. My wife, Lee Ann, and I celebrated our 20 year anniversary earlier this year. We have two daughters, Amelia (16) and Sophie (13) who are active student-athletes, and we spend a lot of time at the soccer field and volleyball court. Our golden-mix, Ruby, and Stella the cat seem to get a lot of our attention, also.
What is your favorite seat in an airplane?
I recently switched from window to aisle.
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Jennifer Maples, A.A.E., C.A.E., A.C.E.
Aviation Superintendent
City of Phoneix Aviation Department
Read more about Jennifer
When did you join SWAAAE and what motivated you to do so?
I joined SWAAAE in 1997 when PHX was hosting the Summer Conference, and my boss, Debbie Klein, was the conference chair… and I’ve been grateful for it ever since!
What is your professional background?
I’ve been with PHX my entire airport career - 23 years and counting! I am currently the Facilities & Services Planning Superintendent overseeing several airport maintenance, operational readiness, capital planning, and asset management functions.
Prior to PHX, I worked for Evergreen Airlines, Cutter Aviation, American Express, and my favorite – as a station manager for Papillon Helicopters in Hawaii!
I have a B.S. in Aviation Business Administration with a Certificate of Emphasis in Aviation Safety from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and became an Accredited Airport Executive in 2007.
Who was the greatest influence in your aviation career?
Two important people instilled a love for aviation in me at a young age. My father worked in the industry my entire life, first as an A&P at North American Rockwell at LAX, and then he moved on to management at Hughes Airwest, then Republic, then Northwest Airlines. Later, a dear friend of mine from high school, David Santo, had his pilot’s license before he could drive! He flew gliders at Turf Soaring School, and I was a benefactor, getting to fly with him. He was the one who convinced me to go to Embry Riddle, and the rest is history!
Do you have any favorite past times or hobbies, and/or would you like to share about your family or pets?
I love to travel and explore new places! I also really enjoy hiking, photography, and believe it or not, I am a quilter. I’ve made several dozen quilts and never kept one – they were all gifted to others.
What is your favorite seat in an airplane?
First Class! But more often than not, I have to settle for a window seat.
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Danette Bewley, A.A.E.
Vice President of Operations/COO
Tucson Airport Authority
Read more about Danette
When did you join SWAAAE and what motivated you to do so?
I joined both AAAE and SWAAAE in the early 1990’s to learn from my peers and network within the industry. With the exception of a few years I spent in Jacksonville, FL, I have been a member of SWAAAE for the better part of 30 years.
What is your professional background?
My airport management career began in 1989 and has spanned 30 years.
- 1989 – 2003:
- I worked at San Diego International Airport in a variety of progressively responsible positions that provided me the opportunity to grow (operated by the Port of San Diego through 2002, then airport ownership transferred to the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority).
- 2003 – 2006:
- I worked for the Jacksonville Aviation Authority as the Director of Jacksonville International Airport.
- 2006 – 2011:
- I worked for the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority, operator of Reno-Tahoe International Airport and Reno Stead Airport, where I managed large capital programs and economic development, respectively.
- 2012 – Present:
- I joined the Tucson Airport Authority, operator of Tucson International Airport and Ryan Airfield. I serve as the Vice President of Operations/COO, and oversee Airside Operations, Communications, Safety Programs, Police, Fire, Airport Security, Maintenance and Custodial Services, Grant Programs and Regulatory Compliance.
Certifications and Education:
- Accredited Airport Executive, 1994
- Certified Airport Executive, 1995
- Private Pilot, 1987
- Bachelor of Business Administration in Aviation Management, 1986
- Master of Arts in Management, 1988
- Master of Public Administration degree, 2006
Who was the greatest influence in your aviation career?
My Dad, Jack Bewley. I am from San Diego, CA, where my passion for aviation began. My Dad was a decorated Navy fighter pilot, stationed at NAS Miramar, and later became a commercial airline pilot. This upbringing fueled my interest to pursue an aviation-related career path.
Do you have any favorite past times or hobbies, and/or would you like to share about your family or pets?
I love dogs! I am the proud “Dog Mom” of Hana, a German Short-haired Pointer, and retired Police K-9 (bomb dog). She medically retired 2 years ago, with a little bit of arthritis, and is now 8 years old. When I’m not working, I just want to be with Hana! She is an absolute joy!
What is your favorite seat in an airplane?
Over the wing. Stable!
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William J Critchfield, A.A.E., C.A.E.
