Aviation for Ashley, Always

What would Ashley Udick’s life look like without aviation? Nearly impossible to distinguish, given that she has spent more than a decade establishing herself as a leader in aviation management.

The daughter of a retired aircraft mechanic for the U.S. Air Force, aviation has always been a central part of Ashley’s world. Attending a large air show with her father in Alaska significantly fueled her interest in aircraft, to the point where she considered pursuing her pilot’s license. However, a brief stint in flying lessons at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University allowed her to recognize her preference for serving the aviation industry on the ground.

After graduating with an associate degree from Polk State College in 2011, Ashley was hired by Flight Level Aviation as the Operations Manager at their Lakeland, FL location. Her aptitude was immediately recognized and rewarded, two years later, with the task of ensuring the seamless transition of Flight Level Aviation’s new fixed base operator acquisition in Cape May, NJ. When Sheltair Aviation Services took over operations at Lakeland Linder International Airport in 2014, Ashley was hired as a line service manager, and eventually transitioned to Sheltair’s Pompano Beach location to serve as general manager.

In 2019, Ashley earned the opportunity to serve as the interim director of Winter Haven Regional Airport, where she oversaw more than $6 million in capital improvement projects and managed daily airport operations. As if that was not enough responsibility, Ashley was simultaneously pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Sciences at Polk State College, with a concentration in Aerospace Administration. After roughly 420 days of service in Winter Haven and earning her diploma, Udick then relocated cross-country to California, where her skills were in demand at Sonoma Jet Center FBO at Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport.

Udick’s prowess and accomplishments have most recently afforded her the opportunity to serve as the General Manager of Aero Center Lakeland, the brand new fixed based operator at Lakeland Linder International Airport. Phase I of the Aero Center Lakeland build, which Ashley is overseeing, includes a new 3-acre air transport capable ramp, a 50K gallon fuel farm, and a modular/temporary FBO. In late 2021, Phase II will add an 11K square feet FBO and office space as well as two hangars of 15K and 10K square feet.

Ashley’s growth and experiences are a testament to the opportunities that abound from pursuing one’s passion and advancing one’s education. She has earned recognition from Aviation International News and is consistently recognized throughout the aviation industry for her commitment to providing superior customer service. Commitment, perseverance and a willingness to learn are essential elements for ensuring success. These attributes will help you spread your own wings and fly!