SWAAAE 2023 Hybrid Summer Conference  

John Giles is the 40th Mayor of Mesa, Arizona in his second full term. He oversees a growing economy that has added tens of thousands of new jobs, billions of dollars in new capital investment, and employers like Apple, Amazon, Boeing, Google, Gulfstream, Meta and Virgin Galactic. He spearheads the Mesa College Promise which provides qualified graduates with a free community college education, and he encouraged the development of Mesa’s Climate Action Plan which includes the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Mayor Giles is Chair of the Immigration Task Force and trustee for the U.S. Conference of Mayors, Co-Chair of Mayors and CEOs for U.S. Housing Investment, and Chair of the Mayor’s Alliance to End Childhood Hunger. The City of Mesa is home to Falcon Field Airport, a site once used to train pilots for WWII that now operates as one of the most active general aviation airports in the United States. The city is also home to Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. The former Williams Air Force Base is now a significant regional economic driver and developing international aerospace center. Before becoming Mayor of Mesa, Giles practiced law full-time. Mayor Giles and his wife Dawn have five children and eight grandchildren.

Col Jessica L. Hastings is the Commander of the 161st Air Refueling Wing, Goldwater Air National Guard Base, Phoenix, Arizona. She is responsible for more than 850 Airmen and eight KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft based at Goldwater Air National Guard Base. The wing’s mission is to train, equip, and maintain units and individuals to meet worldwide requirements in support of the larger Air Force mission of global reach through rapid mobilization, airlift, aeromedical evacuation and aerial refueling operations for United States and partner nation air forces.

Rosemarie S. Andolino is a proven executive in both the private and public sector. She currently serves as President of Andolino Global Advisors, LLC and is an Independent Board Member and Advisor to various for profit and not for profit organizations; including the Chicago Parking Meters, LLC, FetchyFox, The Concord Group, Epstein and JDRF Illinois.

Quinn Annelin joined the Ontario International Airport Authority (ONT) in January 2022, where he serves as Director of Air Service Development. The team at ONT is proud of the success the airport has achieved in its growth – in 2022 it welcomed more than 5.7 million travelers, fully recovering from the effects of the pandemic. Prior to joining ONT, Quinn spent more than a decade in the airline industry, where he held various roles in sales, alliances, and regional strategy at Continental Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and United Airlines. Quinn received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Claremont McKenna College in Claremont, California, and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Texas at Austin. Quinn resides in Orange County, California and in his free time enjoys hiking, traveling and finding new restaurants to try.

James Bennett, A.A.E., is a Principal with the Paslay Group having joined the firm in December 2020. Prior to joining the Paslay Group, James served as the Director of Aviation Services for the City of Phoenix. He has also served as the Chief Executive Officer for the Abu Dhabi Airports Company, President and CEO of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, Assistant Aviation Director for the City of Phoenix, Director of Airports for the Shreveport Airport Authority, Director of Aeronautics for the City of Flint and Manager of Technical Services for Airport Operators Council International (ACI-NA today).

Alice Bimrose is Executive Program Director at PSM Squared, Inc., a woman-owned small business providing strategic communications and guest experience services during capital development. Alice leads the development of project communication plans and project start-up activities including contract requirements, project management plans, and customized processes, procedures and standards for clients experiencing disruptions due to construction and change. Prior to joining PSM², Alice spent nearly 25 years at America’s Friendliest Airport, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). Her PHX experience included capital projects and budgets, airline affairs, public relations, stakeholder outreach, employee and organizational development, process improvement, and maintenance management. She has also worked for 13 years in the nonprofit sector in the Phoenix area. Alice earned a Master of Arts degree from Ottawa University, a Bachelor of Arts degree from Marquette University, and completed the Certificate of Airport Management from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. She is an Accredited Airport Executive and an Airport Certified Employee in Airfield Operations through the American Association of Airport Executives, and a Certified Airport Executive through the Southwest Chapter of AAAE.

As VP of Sustainability & Resilience for RS&H. She leads sustainability and resiliency planning and processes, strategic sustainability planning and policies, and is creating the Sustainability Action Plan for the firm. She has served as lead sustainability and resiliency consultant on projects for federal, state, and municipal clients over the course of her more than 18 years of experience.

T. J. joined Sacramento County Department of Airports in 2015 as the Department’s Chief Administrative Officer/Deputy Director for Planning and Development. T.J. embarked on his airports career more than 20 years ago as an airport engineering intern with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). In the 20 plus year span, T.J. held various project engineering, program management and leadership positions in both public and private sectors and in the US and abroad and had the opportunity to establish a joint-venture company in China. T.J. received his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Civil Engineering from San Jose State University and is a licensed civil engineer in the State of California. T.J. also served in the US Marine Corps Reserves and is a graduate of FAA’s Program for Emerging Leaders.

Mark Crosby is Vice President of Aviation for McCarthy Buildering Companies. He is a recognized industry authority in the areas of aviation and operations, security, public safety, and emergency management. Prior to joining McCarthy, Mark had a diversified 23-year career as an airport and seaport executive holding various positions in operations, contracting, security and public safety in the Portland and Sacramento Airport systems and worked for six years as a consultant for a design and engineering firm.

Joe is a project manager and architect who served in the US Air Force for 9 years as a civil engineer officer. Post-military, Joe has focused on aviation, federal, and military projects leveraging his Air Force background as a foundation for client and partner relationships. When not pointing out all manner of military and civilian aircraft in the skies above San Diego, Joe enjoys paddle boarding, roller skating, cooking, and any beach where dogs are welcome.

Angi Daus has served as the Marketing Coordinator for the Santa Barbara Airport for the past 2 years. Although this is her first “airport gig,” is very familiar with the on-goings and management of government organizations. Angi has her MPA from Metropolitan State University in St. Paul, Minnesota and her BA from the University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh. Prior to joining SBA, Angi founded LL Bird Consulting, an organizational development consulting practice. She also services on the Board of Directors for A Different Point of View, The Arts Fund of Santa Barbara and Channel Islands Restoration, all nonprofit organizations Angi has great passion for. Angi grew up in Wisconsin but has been grateful to call beautiful California her home since 2014. It serves her needs to be outside running, hiking, backpacking, walking her dog and read in the sunshine.

Sarah Demory, A.A.E., ACE is the Assistant Aviation Director/Chief Operating Officer for the City of Phoenix Aviation Department. Sarah leads the Aviation Facilities & Services, Operations, Public Safety and Security Divisions, Aviation Fire and Police Operations as well as the Phoenix Deer Valley & Goodyear Airports. Sarah has more than 25 years of extensive experience. Previously, she was the Airport Deputy Director of Operations and Security at the Boise Airport. Prior to her role in Boise, Sarah held leadership positions in airport operations and emergency management with Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Sarah also has held positions at Omaha’s Eppley Airfield and Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.Sarah has a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Creighton University as well as a Master of Science (MS) in Aviation and a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Aviation Management from the University of North Dakota. Sarah also has a commercial pilot license with instrument and multi engine ratings and is an Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.) with the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE). She is also an AAAE Certified Airport Security Coordinator (ASC) and Airport Certified Employee (ACE) – Operations

Jon Faucher, PE, PMP is in his 31st year at Mead & Hunt and serves as Mead & Hunt’s National Aviation Services Group Leader. Mead & Hunt is a 1,200-person AEC firm which includes over 350 aviation professionals. Jon is passionate about Aviation and has made many contributions both inside his firm and within the industry. He has served on the board of directors for Mead & Hunt since 2011, he is the current Chair of the ACC Foundation Board, and he is a member of AMAC’s Membership Committee. Jon served on the AAAE Board as vice-chair and chair of the Corporate Committee from 2018-2021, as well as having been a SWAAAE Board Corporate Director from 2008-2014. Jon is a graduate of ACEC’s Senior Executive Institute, Class 18 in 2014. Jon is a private pilot and lives with his wife, three children (19, 15, 11), Mother-in-Law, and three dogs in Chandler, AZ. When not traveling Jon enjoys yard work or OHV motorcycle riding with his children.

Brett is the Airport Manager at the Salinas Municipal Airport. He is responsible for the safe and efficient operations, maintenance, and capital development of the airport. He has managed and supervised airports for over 20 years, including Page Municipal Airport, AZ; County of San Bernardino Airport system, CA; and Los Angeles County Airport system, CA.

Todd Hauptli is President and CEO of AAAE. He is the third CEO in the Association’s history. Todd joined AAAE in 1991 and prior to becoming CEO was responsible for overseeing AAAE’s interactions with Congress and the Executive Branch agencies. Before joining AAAE, Todd served as a Congressional Relations Officer handling aviation issues at the Department of Transportation. Prior to his service at the Department of Transportation, Todd served on the White House staff of President Ronald Reagan as Associate Director of Cabinet Affairs. He also worked at the Department of Commerce, first in the Congressional Affairs office, then directly for the Secretary of Commerce. He began his career on Capitol Hill working on the staff of the House Republican Research Committee. He is a graduate of the University of California at Santa Barbara. Todd is married with three sons. He and his family reside in McLean, Virginia.

Jeff is the Director of Development for Alpha Resource Center of Santa Barbara. Alpha Resource Center of Santa Barbara empowers individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout Santa Barbara County by supporting families, creating opportunities, and fostering belonging.

Robin is currently the Manager of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Branch, for the FAA Office of Airports. She is responsible for implementing the $15 billion Airport Infrastructure Grants and the $5 billion Airport Terminal Programs.

From 2014-2021, Robin served as the Deputy Director for the Western Pacific Region Airports Division. She was responsible for the planning, direction, implementation, and evaluation of Airports programs in the Western Pacific Region (Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada and the Pacific).

Robin joined the FAA in May 2008 as the Manager of the San Francisco Airports District Office. As the Manager of the FAA San Francisco Airports District Office, Robin was responsible for implementing Airport Improvement Program and Passenger Facility Charge Programs at airports in Northern California and Nevada.

Prior to joining the Federal Aviation Administration, Robin spent over 19 years with the Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General (DOT-OIG). At the DOT-OIG, Robin served in various Senior Executive Service (SES) and regional management positions, including Deputy Assistant Inspector General for Aviation and Special Program Audits.

Robin received her Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Kansas and is a Certified Fraud Examiner.

Sara is the Airport Development Manager at Santa Barbara Airport (SBA). She is responsible for execution and management of Airport development efforts, including planning, design, construction and activation. She manages projects and programs necessary to deliver complex development projects related to the Airport Master Plan, facility improvements, tenant improvements, and Airport Improvement Program (AIP) federally funded projects.

Sara is a graduate of the University of South Carolina where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Science and a Master’s degree in Environmental Resource Management. She began her career working for the South Carolina Army National Guard as an Environmental Compliance Assessment Manager before she moved to Santa Barbara to work at SBA as a Planner, ultimately leaving to work at SAIC/Leidos and the City of Goleta as Project Manager and Associate Planner respectively. She returned to the City of Santa Barbara Public Works Department as a Project Manager working on large public infrastructure projects, then promoting to Senior Planner before returning to SBA in 2021.

Chad Makovsky was named City of Phoenix Director of Aviation Services in March 2021. He provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the Phoenix system of airports, including Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), Phoenix Deer Valley Airport (DVT), and Phoenix Goodyear Airport (GYR). In his role, Mr. Makovsky leads one of America’s largest airports with 23 airlines providing nonstop service to more than 140 destinations across North America and Europe. Mr. Makovsky returned to Phoenix after serving as the Executive Vice President of Operations at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). Prior to DFW Airport, Mr. Makovsky held a variety of roles with the City of Phoenix Aviation Department, Burbank Airport, John F. Kennedy International Airport, and America West Airlines over his 33-year professional career.

Perry is an airport executive who has distinguished himself by completing years of training to become an accredited member of the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), and the Global ACI-ICAO Airport Management Professional Accreditation Program (AMPAP). After graduation from Texas Southern University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Airway Science and Master of Science degree in Transportation Planning and Management, Perry spent the next 25 years working with the Houston Airport System. Perry has served in a myriad of airport arenas, including airport operations, maintenance, properties management and business development. In the intervening years since his undergraduate internship, Perry has served in the capacity of Airport Manager of Ellington Airport, (EFD) William P. Hobby, (HOU) Interim Airport Manager of George Bush Intercontinental, (IAH) and was a ranking member of the Houston Airport System Management Team. In October 2015, he accepted the position of Chief Operating Officer for the Jackson Municipal Airport Authority in Jackson, Mississippi; and, in July 2019 he moved to the Richmond, Virginia Region to accept the position of his current role as President and CEO of the Capital Region Airport Authority. Perry is a passionate student of all things airport related, who has spent his life building powerful leadership skills, while balancing strong family bonds with his wife Tanya and four sons: Shane, Nekoda, Jachin, and Jahleel.

Ken began his aviation journey as an Army air traffic controller serving in Kentucky, South Korea, and Alabama from 1977-1981. In 1982, Ken was hired as an air traffic controller with the Federal Aviation Administration while earning BS Professional Aeronautics and Aviation Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Following retirement from the FAA in 2009, Ken spent a year at Baghdad International Airport training Iraqi controllers and supporting US Military operations with Washington Consulting Group. Ken began his civilian airport career in 2011 at the Reno-Tahoe International Airport advancing through airport operations and administration. Ken completed his AAE airport management accreditation in July 2016. In March 2018, Ken assumed the airport manager position at the Carson City Airport (CXP) until his retirement in March 2021. In April 2021, Ken was hired by Armstrong Consultants as a Special Projects Manager and Airport Planner. Ken serves as the SWAAAE Legislative Committee Chair and is the President of the Nevada Aviation Association. Ken has been married to Denise for 40 years…in a row! Ken is a father of two and grandpa of one.

From general aviation to commercial service airports, Kelly Moulton has nearly 20 years of aviation sustainability, environmental, planning, and project management experience. As a Director of Aviation for C&S Companies she assists airports with airport master plans, airport layout plans, land use and facility planning, environmental planning under NEPA & CEQA, regional system planning, sustainability planning, FAA grant coordination, alternative project delivery, and airport capital improvement planning. As a former airport employee, Kelly also provides an unique perspective and insight having worked at airports of varying size of facilities.

Ms. Platt joined Campbell-Hill Aviation Group in 2022 as a Director. She brings twenty years of diverse aviation planning experience to Campbell-Hill.

Prior to joining Campbell-Hill, Ms. Platt served as the Air Service Program Manager for San Diego International Airport, helping to sustain current air service as well as bring new carriers and destinations to SAN. She was responsible for developing and promoting strategic partnerships with key business, community and economic development organizations. At her time at SAN, she worked on various airport projects including gate reallocations and the redevelopment of a new air service incentive program. She also served as the Vice Chair on the ACI-NA Air Service Steering Committee and Co-Chair of the Air Service Policy Subcommittee.

Her specialties include revenue forecasting, competitive analysis, cost modeling and profitability projections. Ms. Platt has established a reputation for a direct, numbers-driven approach which has proven successful to create one of the most profitable airlines in the world. Prior to joining SAN, Robyn was the Sr. Manager of Network Planning at Spirit Airlines. She helped grow the network from 60 to 125+ airplanes and evolve from a small carrier to the leading ULCC of the Americas. In her time at Spirit, she evaluated and added hundreds of routes and most of the cities you see in their network today. She has also held various roles at US Airways with experience in planning, revenue management, sales analytics, and vacation packaging.

Dave Nafie, C.M. currently serves as Deputy Director for the Ventura County Department of Airports where his responsibilities include the planning, development, and day-to-day administration of the business functions for two very active GA airports in Southern California. In addition to programming ongoing and upcoming runway and taxiway reconstruction projects, the Department of Airports is also busy conducting FAR Part 150 Noise Compatibility Studies for both Camarillo and Oxnard Airports. Prior to joining Ventura County in his current government role, Dave enjoyed 25 years in the private sector leading aviation projects at airports across the lower 48 states and Alaska.

Steve is a neurodivergent Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion professional with nearly 20 years of experience in the field. He previously co-led disability inclusion efforts for Walt Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products and has worked as an accessibility consultant for zoos, museums, and schools in the United States, France, and Asia. In 2021, Steve pivoted to the airline industry and relocated from Central Florida to Seattle, Washington to join the DEI team at Alaska Airlines. Today, he leads the domestic airline industry’s very first Disability Inclusion Office.

Judi is the Director of Airports for the Myrtle Beach International Airport. Prior to Myrtle Beach, she was the CFO at Charleston (SC) International for 15 years.

She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Bryant University in Rhode Island and a Master of Business Administration from the University of New Haven in Connecticut. An Accredited Airport Executive, Judi is the past president of the Southeast Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), past chairman of the AAAE Finance & Administration Committee, and a past member of the AAAE National Board of Directors. She is currently a member of the AAAE Board of Examiners. She is the founder of the Goal Digger Leadership Workshop Series, primarily serving the Southeast Chapter of AAAE.

Recently selected to Airport Business “40 under 40,” Matt has contributed to all elements related to airport planning for Coffman Associates. He has more than 16 years of experience in airports and aviation. Prior to joining Coffman Associates, his experience includes five years in airport management where he was involved with administration, capital improvement projects and fixed-base operations. He also worked at a Part 139 reliever airport and was involved with all facets of airport activities. This experience, coupled with his involvement in special airport studies related to rules and regulations, rates and charges, safety area improvements, and wildlife hazard management, gives Matt a thorough understanding of the different aspects involved with the development and operation of an airport.

As Vice President in the HMMH Aviation Environmental Services Group, Gene Reindel oversees a wide range of aviation noise consulting projects, offers industry experience to those projects and provides technical support to airport community noise forums throughout the U.S. His professional experience includes environmental projects, including National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and state equivalents in California, Oregon and Washington; Airport Noise Compatibility Planning studies (Part 150); Airport Noise and Access Restriction projects (Part 161); airport ground noise studies, residential sound insulation projects, and noise modeling of aircraft operations. He is often involved in preparing for and directing major field measurement programs and advising on the acquisition and analysis of data. Mr. Reindel is a trained facilitator and leads public outreach programs associated with controversial noise studies and programs.

Aurora Ritter has 13 years of experience in the commercial real estate industry with industry leaders such as Prologis, CBRE and now with the Reno-Tahoe Airport authority (RTAA). Her responsibilities have included the management of large, multi-tenant industrial and commercial property portfolios including the oversight of multi-discipline owner and tenant improvement projects. For the past 8 years, Aurora’s responsibilities have included the negotiation of long-term land leases and development project oversight at both the Reno-Tahoe International Airport and the Reno-Stead Airport for third party development of RTAA-owned land. Aurora has been involved in projects such as hotels, new FBO terminal and hangars, industrial and mixed-use industrial and commercial developments

Russ Sanders, AIA is a licensed architect with over 30 years experience. Over the past 10 years, he has been focused on aviation projects, most notably Sky Harbor Terminal 3 Modernization and T4S1, where he served as project manager for the design team on both. In his new role as Vice President of Design Integration for McCarthy’s Southwest Region, Russ leads a team of architects, interior designers, and technology experts to coordinate the design phase of McCarthy’s projects with a focus on design quality and team performance.

Corey Schultheis has been with Los Angeles World Airports since 2010 and is currently the Chief of Operations responsible for overseeing compliance with Airport Certification requirements in 14 CFR Part 139 at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Duties include overseeing the airports federally regulated into-plane fueling program, reviewing operational impacts on proposed airfield leaseholds, working with the ground service providers regarding space and safety concerns, executing special projects, periodically reviewing construction plans with the LAX Construction Office and working closely with the Airfield Safety Manager to administer the airfield enforcement program and review safety protocols and incidents. Corey is also responsible for reviewing appropriate Advisory Circulars and providing regulatory interpretation when it comes to airfield situations when needed. Corey’s most significant assignment is to liaison and maintain an excellent working relationship with the Federal Aviation Administration in addition to maintaining the LAX Airport Certification Manual. Corey was assigned to Van Nuys Airport (VNY) from 2015-2018 and during his tenure was involved in a variety of duties including maintaining the airport’s drivers training program, monitoring wildlife reports and was a founding member of the airports Safety and Security Committee. Corey obtained has a Bachelors of Science in Aviation Operations from San Jose State University, a Masters in Leadership Management (MSLM) from the University of La Verne, became an International Airport Professional (IAP) through the ACI-ICAO Airport Management Professional Accreditation Programme (AMPAP) and obtained the Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.) designation with AAAE.

Kevin Schutzenhofer is an accomplished Stakeholder Manager with over two decades of experience working for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) where he has been instrumental in building and maintaining relationships that have supported the freedom of movement for people and commerce. Prior to joining TSA, Kevin spent several years in the airline industry and developed a deep understanding of the industry. Kevin has been instrumental in creating and implementing successful outreach programs that have fostered collaboration and cooperation between TSA and its Stakeholder Community. Kevin always believes that positive and trusting relationships lead to success in any realm.

Alex Smith serves as the Terminal Operations Manager for the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport Authority in Mesa, Arizona. Currently, Alex leads Terminal Operations, the Badging office, as well as various programs across the airside and landside environments. Alex has over ten years of progressively responsible experience in airport operations and security. Alex holds a bachelor’s degree in Air Traffic Management and a master's degree in Criminal Justice, both from Arizona State University. In addition, he is an Accredited Airport Executive with the American Association of Airport Executives and a Certified Airport Executive with the Southwest Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives.

Matt Smith moved to Arizona in 2001 to “do something in aviation.” He got his start making sandwiches at the legendary Flight Deck Café at Williams Gateway Airport and was soon hired by the airport as a fueler. He then became the airport draftsman and studied airport planning with Larry Gessell at ASU. Over the years he worked at America West, TSA, Yuma International Airport, and ADOT Aeronautics. He was the manager at the Grand Canyon National Park Airport for nearly five years before becoming the Airport Administrator at Glendale Municipal Airport in October 2022..

Laurie has had an extensive career in Aviation, and more particularly with the FAA’s Airports organization. Laurie began her career in airport management, spending the first 14 years of her career managing general aviation and commercial service airports. Since coming to the FAA, Laurie has worked as Airport Certification Safety Inspector, Lead Safety Inspector, Compliance Inspector, Program Analyst in Headquarters, Assistant Manager of the MSP-ADO, Manager of the BIS-ADO, Deputy Manager in the DMA-ADO organization, Assistant Manager of the SFO-ADO and now as Manager of the SFO-ADO. Laurie has worked in AAL, ANE, AGL and now AWP. Laurie holds an Associate’s degree in Computer Science, a Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Administration, and a private pilot’s license, with a preference in flying gliders and a J-3 Cub.

As Dibble’s Airport Development Business Unit Leader, Ryan provides leadership and oversight of operations, critical opportunity positioning and growth strategy for the firm’s aviation consulting services, which include airport planning, environmental/NEPA clearance, capital programming, engineering, and construction administration services. Ryan’s 19 years of experience include many different responsibilities rooted in a solid foundation of in-depth airfield engineering and construction phase services for clients across the United States. This wide client base has provided him exceptional experience, which he has brought to elevate his clients’ airports to regional recognition. Deeply familiar with regional FAA policies, funding approaches, and personnel, Ryan has come to be known as a reliable and creative partner to the FAA and airport sponsors.

Over the course of his career, Jeff has worked at a number of Arizona airports in managerial and operational roles including Scottsdale (1996-1998), Chandler (1998-1999), Mesa-Falcon Field (2006-2012), Prescott (1996, 1999-2006, 2012-2014, 2019-2021), and is currently managing the Cottonwood Airport (2021-present). He received a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Business Administration and a Master of Aeronautical Science in Aviation/Aerospace Safety Systems from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, served on the AzAA Board of Directors (2004 – 2011) including Association President (2009-2010), and has been an Accredited Airport Executive since 2006.

Lexie has spent her career in aviation public relations, air service development, and as a former Director of Communications for the Phoenix Convention Center. She is a 5th generation Arizonan, serves on the Board of Directors for the Tempe Tourism Office, is a graduate of Valley Leadership Ready Together, serves on the International Air Service Steering Committee for Airports Council International as well as on the Coordinating Committee for Phoenix Global Rising and a member of the Phoenix Committee on Foreign Affairs. She serves on the International Leadership Committee for the Greater Phoenix Economic Council providing guidance on key initiatives and strategies.

Mark Witsoe, A.A.E./CAE is an innovative leader and thoughtful contributor in the airport management field. He is currently the Airport Manager for Napa Airport (APC) participating in making Napa Valley an attractive tourism destination. Mark is implementing Napa County’s grand vision for improving and growing the facilities and achieving its potential to serve as the “Skyport to the Wine Country”. He was previously the Director of Airports for Kern County, CA managing the day-to-day operations of the six county airports including Meadows Field (BFL) and a professional staff bringing a vision for responsible growth, a strategy for fiscal sustainability, and long-term stewardship to a diverse community. Mr. Witsoe has worked in the airport industry his entire professional career. He has served at airports in California, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. Mr. Witsoe served on the AAAE Board of Examiners for six years supporting the growing number of accredited airport professionals. He was the 2021 recipient of the SWAAAE Airport Executive of the Year and a past president of the association.

Mr. Gordon Wong has been the Manager of the Honolulu Airports District Office (HNL ADO) for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Western-Pacific Region since 2018. He began his career as a Civil Engineer at the Airports Division, Western-Pacific Regional Office in 1987. Mr. Wong became a project engineer in the HNL ADO from 1990 to 2011 and Lead Program Manager until 2018 overseeing the airport planning and environmental projects. Mr. Wong also served as a part-time Airport Certification and Safety Inspector in the ADO until 2020. The Airports Programs include the Airport Improvement Program (AIP), Passenger Facility Charge Program (PFC), 14 CFR Part 139 Airport Certification Program, Airport Compliance Program, the Surplus Property Program, the Airport Data Program, the Noise Compatibility Program, Airspace Evaluation Program, and Technical Assistance Program. He currently manages the day-to-day operations within the ADO’s geographic area of responsibility that includes American Samoa, Hawaii, Midway Island, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau.

Deanna Zachrisson, C.M. currently serves as Director, Revenue Generation & Partnership Development at San Diego International Airport (SAN), where she also oversees the Small Business Development department. Supported by a talented and experienced team, she is spearheading the development of new restaurants, retail and passenger services in the Airport’s new Terminal 1 project, scheduled to open in 2025. She is a 23-year veteran of the airport industry and has been consistently involved industry organizations including previously serving as Chair for the ACI/NA Commercial Management Committee. Prior to SAN, she headed up business development efforts at Santa Barbara Airport (SBA), including marketing, air service development, property management and concessions. She also served in a variety of roles at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), mostly notably heading up that airport’s award-winning dining and retail program.