On The Cover
Jay DeWitt, Special Projects Administrator for the City of Phoenix on top of the PHX Sky Train construction. Terminal 4 station at Sky Harbor International Airport is in the background. Photo by Kim Stevens
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Arizona Aviation Journal May/June 2011
Contents From the Publisher...........................................Page 4 AviaEd/SSi.......................................................Page 5 PHX Sky Train Rolls - On Time......................Page 7 SPECIAL AzAA Coverage New President Leads AzAA............................Page 11 AzAA Annual Golf Tournament......................Page 12 AzAA Reception & Pool Tourney...................Page 17 AzAA Conference Sessions.............................Page 18 AzAA Break with Exhibitors...........................Page 22 President’s Reception & Banquet....................Page 25 Executive of the Year Award............................Page 27 Airport of the Year Award................................Page 29
Publisher/Editor/ Kim J. Stevens Graphic Design/ Andrew Stevens Layout Design/ Andrew Stevens Advertising Director/ Kate Stevens Photography/ Kim Stevens Contributing Writers
Claire Stern
Laughlin Casinos reflect in the Colorado River. Laughlin was the site of the 2011 AzAA Annual Spring Conference.
May/June April 2011 2011 Arizona Aviation Journal
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r e h s i l he Pub
T m o r F
Putting the Pieces Together Many years ago in what seems like another lifetime I was heavily involved in community theatre. As I reflect on those days one of the most satisfying and enjoyable things about the stage, was seeing all of the pieces come together, set construction, lighting design, the acting, the never-ending rehearsals, all culminating in a finished product. Our efforts to bring to you an electronic publication that focuses on aviation in Arizona has been a similar experience. Not unlike the producer or director of a play, the design of the magazine, its construction and the selection of the players involved has resulted in a similar pleasure and sense of accomplishment. But, as every good director knows it’s the magic that takes place on the stage and the response of the audience that dictates the length of the run! Directing the growth of this new business, the e-magazine, associated website and what we call the Arizona Skybrief, has truly been a labor of love. Most of the credit and hard work however, goes to a very talented team which includes graphics and computer savvy by my son Andrew Stevens, advertising sales and promotion by Kate Stevens, Andrew’s wife, a host of contributing writers, and a constant stream of good ideas and support by my wife Deb. A special thank you goes to photographers Clint Morris, Carol Groff and Jayme Kelter for providing some great photography in support of our ongoing efforts. We hope this issue whets your appetite for what’s to come as we explore and promote aviation in the state of Arizona. We will always look forward to your comments and suggestions and if there are any thespians out there, a rousing “break a leg!”
AviaEd/SSi Using Social Media and Technology to Reach Global Market The world is getting smaller for many businesses as technology improves and entrepreneurs expand their marketing globally. Such is the case for one Tucson businesswoman who has combined her love for travel and education to create a business that has taken her to other continents. “We are continually looking at ways to engage social media, our website, email and limited print marketing efforts into an increased reach for our services,” said Lorena de Rodriguez, President of AviaEd and SSi. However, according to de Rodriguez there truly is a lot of their work that comes by word of mouth and return airport clients who trust that they can create fair and accurate solutions whether they be training or one-time program revisions. After spending a decade working with airlines, starting out as a ramp agent, working in customer service and then training new hires, de Rodriguez has combined her love for aviation, mentoring and teaching to create Aviation Education: Adaptive Training Services (AviaEd) and Safety & Security Instruction (SSi). Although both companies are independent of each other, they do have some of the same clients. De Rodriguez, who holds a Masters Degree in Aviation Management from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University and has completed the Airports Council International Executive Leadership Program, still gets hooked on the interconnectivity to all facets of travel, transportation and rules and idiosyncrasies of this industry, which according to de Rodriguez, are different from any other. AviaEd, which has taught worldwide, consults airports on Department of Transportation (DOT), Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulatory compliance programs. “We are pleased to be a partner with ACI Global Training to support their APEX in Safety strategies,” said de Rodriguez. AviaEd is launching a new course this month which is designed to assist airport badging staff to understand the role they
AviaEd employee Scott Simpson and Lorena de Rodriguez play in credentialing and TSA compliance. The first class is scheduled to take place in Savannah, Georgia. AviaEd works with smaller airports, assisting them in writing and revising safety and security programs, which can be submitted to TSA or FAA for approval. “Smaller airports with fewer staff rely on us to create these documents,” said de Rodriguez. The company then turns the documents over to the airports, who revise them on an ongoing basis. “We update FAA required ACMs [Airport Certification Manuals] and TSA ASPs [Airport Security Programs] for airports that have been approved by the FAA or TSA in an expeditious manner,” said de Rodriguez. “Airports with small staff simply need assistance to get programs up and running and are very able and talented to keep their programs current. It is taking the time to write, rewrite or extensively revise the programs that the airports have asked us to help with.” AviaEd is also capable of providing Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) assistance if needed. SSi, on the other side of the coin, is a majority-owned business created by de Rodriguez in 2005 to address computer-base
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AviaEd Continued from previous page e-learning deliver for airports nationwide. “The purpose is to provide consistent training programs for more aviation personnel,” said de Rodriguez. “We have 45 courses being used by 19 airports in the U.S.” In order to ensure AviaEd and SSi are up to date and providing accurate information, de Rodriguez is actively involved in numerous aviation related organizations, and she consults with several regulatory officials, maintaining close relationships with the TSA, FAA and other associations. De Rodriguez started both companies with the hopes of initially contracting work to airlines, including those she had worked with in the past; however, she found that airports were more attracted to the training AviaEd and SSi provided. One of the greatest challenges she faced in the early stages of the business was understanding the industry, which is why she went back to get her Master’s Degree. The first couple years were also spent going to industry events and conferences to meet people and to fully understand what needs there were for training. Both companies have expanded extensively and have come a long way since they first opened. De Rodriguez described her greatest accomplishment at SSi as reaching several larger airports with competitive training programs that are utilized daily by personnel to ensure consis-
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tent and current training. “We have created a series of generally required safety and security programs for airports to use,” said de Rodriguez. “These programs are distributed over a secured website and airport management maintains access to all record keeping and usernames so they can create reports to TSA, FAA and auditors as necessary.” Although the companies are concerned that the industry has slowed due to the economy, de Rodriguez says they have not been instantly Lorena de Rodriguez affected, explaining she has seen a lag over the past couple of years in airports adopting new programs, similar to the ones they offer, due to budget constraints. The company is looking for innovative ways to do more for their clients without them having to expend more than was previously budgeted or from decreased budgets. “We, of course, are concerned that the industry has slowed; however most, if not more, of the same requirements exist for training.” Currently, AviaEd participates in educational career days and is involved with the small business association, with hopes of a continued market growth for both companies, focusing on assisting smaller airports. “I would love to do more work in my own ‘backyard’ as there are so many smaller airports in Arizona,” said de Rodriguez. “Most of our work is still in the US.” De Rodriguez said they have ongoing computer-based training being developed for 19 airports and are working on consulting projects at three airports. “It is enough to engage our small qualified staff while still allowing for us to look for additional growth opportunities,” said de Rodriguez. “I am impressed with the backgrounds, viewpoints and experience of the folks who work with (for) me. Every day I learn more from them; which bodes well if AviaEd is to become a learning company for the industry.” De Rodriguez’s advice for future aviation enthusiasts is to “learn as much as you can about various aspects of the industry. You’ll never know when the information will come in handy or when a previously unknown area takes on a spark of interest that becomes a new career,” said de Rodriguez. In addition to overseeing the operations at both AviaEd and SSi, de Rodriguez is an adjunct faculty at Embry-Riddle and enjoys spending her free time working on home improvement and yard work projects. “As much as I love my work, I’ve been fortunate enough to take my teenagers on several of my international travels,” said de Rodriguez. “We have benefited by the ability to see the world together and enjoy the tribulations of travel together.”
Arizona Aviation Journal May/June 2011
DeWitt, right, points to the West towards Terminal 4 at Sky Harbor.
PHX Sky Train Project Keeps Rolling - On Time By Kim Stevens The Phoenix (PHX) Sky Harbor International Airport’s $1.5 Billion Sky Train project continues to roll, staying on the track and meeting projected deadlines and budget numbers. “On time, on budget - it’s the Phoenix way,” said Jay DeWitt, Special Projects Administrator, managing the airport’s overall PHX Sky Train project. “We don’t start construction on anything unless our plans are well within our budget, and unless we have adequate contingencies to cover unforeseen conditions.” When an organization or business embarks upon a project whose future depends on a successful completion of that project, its important to have a clear vision, careful planning and sufficient resources. In the case of Sky Harbor’s Sky Train project, it also doesn’t hurt to have a little luck! Consultants and contractors were selected based on qualifi-
Artist rendering of Sky Train. cations, and according to DeWitt, they were able to secure a highly qualified team of professionals who have performed
before on projects like this one. “While it’s easy to identify qualifications,” said DeWitt, “we were lucky to assemble a team that gets along well and stays focused on the goal.” For three years now, the project has been the only responsibility for DeWitt. But now that the project is more than half done and completely bid out, DeWitt has taken on some additional responsibilities in the business office working with their commercial and general aviation tenants. “We have some of the best construction professionals in the business working on the train,” said DeWitt. “Because we have a terrific team and the resources to work with, I know we’ll be successful, so I don’t have to worry too much.” Kyle Kotchou, also a Special Projects Administer for the City of Phoenix, said that working with the Hensel Phelps Construction Company and Bombardier Transportation on the PHX Sky Train project has been fantastic. “The employees working for both companies are very DeWitt explaines construction professional, extremely com- methods. petent and committed to the success of our project.” Well into Stage One of construction, the PHX Sky Train will move as many as 5 million passengers in the first year. The train will initially connect the 44th Street Station, with access to the cities METRO light rail system, to Terminal 4 via the East Economy parking structure. At 35 mph, passengers will cover that distance in about five minutes. For years Sky Harbor Boulevard and the surrounding roadway system, has accommodated the increasing traffic to the airport. Although they will continue to improve this roadway, airport officials recognized the need for a second mode of transportation to meet future demand to handle not only increasing pas-
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Sky Train
Above is the first transit bridge over an active taxiway. The span is 90 feet above the taxiway.
sengers, but employees and airport businesses as well. Studies have shown that an automated train is the best way to move people through the airport and according to statistics provided by Sky Harbor, will relieve curbside traffic jams, reduce wait times and take more than 20,000 vehicles off the roads each day, which is sure to please anyone who has personally navigated through the mix of taxis, limos and shuttle busses, while dropping off or picking up passengers. Although there hasn’t been any formal opinion polls conducted, according to an airport spokesperson, they are receiving very positive feedback from customers and local residents, mostly through the airport’s website, Facebook and Twitter pages. “Many of the comments we receive are from customers who are looking forward to PHX Sky Train’s seamless connection with METRO light rail,” said Julie Rodriguez, Public Information Manager for the City of Phoenix Aviation Department. With four key companies involved, employing nearly 6,000 people, there have been chalRodriguez lenges, but according to DeWitt they’ve been able to overcome them because of the level of trust that they share and the experience each team member brings with them. Train car system testing is scheduled to begin in April of 2012 with operations between 44th Street Station and Terminal 4 sometime during the first quarter of 2013. Stage Two, which will connect to the remaining terminals and the Car Rental
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Center is scheduled to be completed and operational by 2020. The project is paid for with airport revenue and passenger fees. There will be no local tax dollars used and the system will be free to use. “This has been a very rewarding and challenging project for the whole team in very unique ways,” said DeWitt, referring to the successful design of the first transit bridge over an active taxiway in the world. DeWitt said that for their architect it was the attractive and efficient design of train stations that blend into the existing airport facilities, yet establish a new sleek looking standard. “For our contractor it has been building all of these components on a large scale in the middle of a busy airport and doing it very well,” said DeWitt. “For the airport staff and me, it has been taking a vision that started many years ago and making it happen.” Kotchou said that the Sky Train project has broadened his
Left to right are Joel McWilliams, the Weitz Company, John Housely, Bombardier and Justin Curless, the Weitz Company. Bombardier is the Train System Provider/Operator.
Arizona Aviation Journal May/June 2011
knowledge of transportation facility design and construction. Prior to his involvement in the Sky Train project, his focus was managing large public works building projects for the City, including Phoenix Convention Center expansion. “The Sky Train project has opened up a whole new world to me,” said Kotchou. “It is exciting and I am proud to be a part the Aviation Department’s team!” “There is Airport-wide excitement about this project among employees,” said Rodriguez. “The PHX Sky Train will touch nearly every division in the Phoenix Aviation Department, from the planning, to the construction - to operations and maintenance.” According to Rodriguez, employees are looking forward to the increased convenience the PHX Sky Train will provide when it comes to traveling between terminals and to and from METRO light rail. “It will be good for everyone; customers and employees,” said Rodriguez. “This is an impressive project and it serves as a source of pride for those who work here at Sky Harbor.”
Kyle Kotchou signs a beam at the 44th Street Station.
Workers Celebrate Topping Out of 44th Street Station
In keeping with tradition, a small evergreen tree and a U.S. flag were placed on top of the structure.
Now with the structural framework complete, workers celebrated the topping out of the PHX Sky Train™ light rail connection near Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Employees marked the occasion on April 29, signing one of the 35,000 pound elliptical beams on the future PHX Sky Train station™ at 44th Street and Washington. In keeping with tradition, a small evergreen tree and a U.S. flag were placed at the top of the structure. Beginning in early 2013, Stage One of the PHX Sky Train™ will transport passengers between the regional METRO light rail system at 44th Street and Washington, East Economy Parking and Terminal 4, which serves 80 percent of Sky Harbor’s passengers. The 44th Street and Washington station will feature an arched roof, allowing for generous amounts of natural light inside of the building and will serve as a new gateway to the Phoenix Airport, allowing for passenger drop-off and pick-up and providing a seamless connection to public transportation.
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New President to Lead AzAA Through Change One sign of a strong and successful organization is the smooth and seamless transition between leaders. If the recent change in presidency of the Arizona Airports Association, (AzAA) is any indication, this organization falls into that category. Jennifer Maples, AzAA’s newest President was handed the gavel during the Annual “Dutch Bertholf” Spring Conference held this year in Laughlin, Nevada. “The most amazing thing about AzAA,” said Maples, “is not that it has been around for 32 years, or that we have consistently maintained a membership of 300 members for the last 5 years during a troubling economy, or even that we put on two conferences a year that rival those put on by the regional chapters of AAAE. What is truly amazing to me about AzAA is that many of the founding and early members are still actively involved, over half of our members have been involved in AzAA for five years or longer, and at least half of the 32 past presidents are still actively supportive of aviation and/or the association in some fashion. Add that all up, and you have staying power.” There were a number of past presidents in attendance at the banquet including Casey Denny, the outgoing president, Jeff Tripp, Lynn Kusy, Gary Mascaro, David Gaines, Michael Johnson, Liisa Federico, Mike Covalt, Larry Larkin, Bill Menard and the namesake for the conference – Dutch Bertholf. Maples, an Aviation Superintendent at Sky Harbor, joined the City of Phoenix 15 years ago while Mr. Bertholf was at the helm of the airport. “It was truly one of the best experiences of my career,” said Maples. “I am so grateful that Dutch was willing to share his experience, advice, and council over the years, and his encouragement and support are major contributing factors to my presence here today.” Maples, who admits a fondness for quotes, shared one by Charles Exley, Jr., CEO of NCR Corporation. Exley was quoted in the Wall Street Journal as saying, “I’ve been in this business 36 years, I’ve learned a lot - and most of it doesn’t apply any more.” Maples went on to say that she has been involved in aviation for more than 20 years and Jennifer Maples and outgoing AzAA having grown up President Casey Denny. with a father who worked in the airline industry, she has learned a lot about aviation, and “most of it doesn’t apply any more,” she said. “Our industry has changed so much over our life times and
careers,” said Maples, “that other than the basics that airplanes still take off and land at airports, not much is the same any more about how we do business.” The theme for this year’s conference according to Maples was “change – not just that it is coming, or that its here, not just that we need to prepare for it, but that we need to embrace it as an opportunity to take our airports and our association to the next level.” Maples said that in Jennifer Maples the midst of change and challenges, there is reason though, to celebrate in the coming year with many upcoming important events. National Aviation Day is on August 19th. AzAA is encouraging airports to partner with corporate and associate members to do something at every member airport to celebrate National Aviation Day this year to bring attention to airports and the positive impact they have on the economy and each community. Next January will be the 7th Annual Aviation Day at the Capitol. “The success of this event has increased every year,” said Maples, “and we cannot afford to rest on our laurels. Attendance and participation by all the member airports and our business partners is just as important as ever.” Next year is the Arizona Centennial. AzAA will celebrate the history of Aviation in Arizona and the Centennial at the organization’s Spring Conference, which will be held in Tucson next May. “Some of you may know that Tucson was the first Municipally-owned airport in the country,” said Maples, “and Bisbee-Douglas was the first international airport of the Americas, as declared by President Roosevelt.” Maples closed her remarks to conference attendees by saying that the next morning the board will be meeting to do a recap on the conference, and to lay the groundwork for the upcoming year. “I am excited about the incoming board,” she said. “We have an amazing amount of talent and diversity that will enable us to take on these challenges and be successful.” As far as her role over the next year Maples said she will continue investing in the association, the members, and our future leaders. Keep the association moving forward in the areas of leadership, communication, education, and organization. “And have a heck of a lot of fun in the process!”
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Over forty golfers played the Laughlin Ranch course.
Golfers Brave High Winds in Annual AzAA Tournament Forty golfers faced not only the usual traps and hazards associated with the game but faced strong winds as well at this year’s annual AzAA golf tournament played at Laughlin Ranch Golf Club in Bullhead City on the Sunday before the association’s annual Spring conference.
Jim Harris, left and Lynn Kusy.
Players and duffers alike faced the challenge head on with a little help from their pocket book. According to golf organizers, there was a brisk sale of mulligan’s and three-foot tapes. That must have helped, at least for the winning foursome, which came in well under par. The1st place team was made up of Greg Mead, Chris Read, Gary Mascaro and Chris Andres. 2nd place went to Steve Rao, Casey Denny, Patrick Murphy and Barry Staehs. Other standouts included Lorena de Rodriguez for “Women’s Longest Drive”; Ken Keatts for “Men’s Longest Drive”; Casey Denny for “Closest to the Pin” and Steve Coffman for “Longest Putt.”
From left are Jeanette Coffman, Stephan Coffman, Jim Harris and Lynn Kusy.
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Golf tourney organizers include from left, Claire Stern, Kevin Shirer, Sandy Kukla, Mike Hill and Derek Rogers.
Players warm up at the driving range.
Lynn Kusy prepares to tee-off.
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Laughlin Ranch Golf Course in Bullhead City, AZ
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Using the tape for a hole-in-one are from left Steve Rao, Barry Staehs, Patrick Murphy and Casey Denny.
Patrick Murphy eyes Casey Denny chip on to the green.
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Third place went to Stacy Howard.
Bruce Loev, billiards tournament director.
12th Annual AzAA Billiards Tournament For twelve years Bruce Loev has organized an annual Billiards Tournament in association with an AzAA Airports Conference. Loev, Principal Airport Engineer with the URS Corporation started the first tournament back in 1999 in Yuma, Arizona. “We had sixteen players that year,� said Loev. This year in Laughlin, Nevada, 32 participated in the event held at the Old Town Saloon. First place winner Scott Simpson.
2nd place winner, Steven Tyminski, with his wife Valley.
May/June 2011
Anne Roberts, left and Elissa Federico.
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AzAA President Casey Denny welcomes conference attendees.
AzAA Hosts 2011 “Dutch Bertholf” Spring Conference By Claire Stern More than 150 airport executives and contractors attended the 2011 “Dutch Bertholf” Spring Conference hosted by the Arizona Airports Association (AzAA) in Laughlin, Nevada. The conference was held May 1-3 at the Harrah’s Laughlin Casino and was sponsored by dozens of airport and aviation entities, contractors and consultants. On the agenda were some of Arizona’s most well-known names in the field of aviation. AzAA President Casey Denny and Mohave County Airport Authority Director David Gaines kicked off the conference by welcoming attendees and thanking the many exhibitors and sponsors. John Hastings, President of the Mohave County Airport Authority, provided an overview of the history of the Laughlin Bullhead International Airport and the audience applauded conference namesake Dutch Bertholf who makes a point to attend the event each year. The first session on the agenda John Hastings was a Transportation Board policy update given by Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) State Airport Engineer Holly Hawkins and Tucson Airport Authority Director of Design Services Mike Johnson. A stakeholder working group was formed in 2009 to make revisions to the State Transportation Board (STB) Aviation policy. Hawkins discussed the importance of making updates and revisions and Johnson explained the initial guidelines which were set in 2003. The new revisions, which are still in draft form, are similar but are more up-to-date and straightforward. The purpose of the revisions was to address a lack of detail related to project component definitions and references,
to eliminate the skewing of priority ratings of projects, and to align the guidelines with the State Airport Systems Plan (SASP). The proposed changes are aimed at incorporating all modes of transportation in a single STB policy, but created a separate Airport Development Guidelines and Procedures document which prioritizes safety, security, capacity, environmental, planning, and sustainability. The update introduced standards for users that are more specific and less general. It also changed the minimum amounts for projects. According to Hawkins and Johnson, the next step is to review the draft documents. Written comments must be provided to ADOT no later than May 16, 2011 and policies are expected to be adopted in July 2011. Gary Petersen, Director of Public Works for the City of Salinas, California and Manager of the Salinas Municipal Airport, presented on creative leadership. His presentation was a good reminder that the world is constantly changing and effective leaders need to be able to adapt. Changing issues related to airports include funding, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) guidelines, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) airport quality standards. He stressed the importance of teaching future leaders “how to do new things,” not how to do things the same way they’ve been done before. Petersen also encouraged attendees to “be the best version of yourself,” to remember that “being a manager matters” and that “the best leadGary Petersen ers are the best learners.”
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Robert Turton, Technical Director for Bridges and Structures for HDR, Inc. was the featured lunch guest speaker. Turton literally “wowed the crowd,” so to speak, with photos and details of the Hoover Dam Bypass project. The multi-state, multiagency and multi-contract project is the highest and longest arched concrete bridge in the western hemisphere. The bridge opened in 2010 and is 900 feet above the Colorado River. The first session Monday afternoon was a quick update on three current issues affecting airport management. First, ADOT Environmental Compliance Manager Chuck Howe gave an overview of stormwater regulations for airports. The SWPPP puts an emphasis on control measures such as inspections, good housekeeping, vehicle and equipment wash water, and monitoring during the deicing season. The second speaker featured during the Industry Snapshots session was Arlando Teller, Senior Transportation Planner for the Navajo Division of Transportation. Teller discussed the goal of promoting safe and secure airports for all users visiting the Navajo Nation. The tribal airports are used primarily for emergency evacuation flights, medical specialists, medical supply transport, official tribal business, forest fire Robert Turton fighting efforts, search and rescue, construction projects, and tourism. Teller explained that the Navajo Nation’s airports are seen as an untapped economic engine. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rounded out the session. Julie Augeri, Stakeholder Manager, TSA, spoke about the agency’s desire to strengthen its relationship with airports and stakeholders. Augeri explained TSA’s security functions which include technology upgrades, the national threat advisory system, and screening evolution. She also discussed TSA’s general aviation outreach which includes the promotion of positive security practices, stakeholder education and engagement, and local profile programs. Airports are encouraged to use the National GA SECURE Program phone number which is 866-GA-SECURE to report security issues in addition to working with the TSA at the local level. Monday afternoon also brought about a session focused on the ever-changing field
of social media. AviaEd and SSi, Inc. President Lorena de Rodriguez and Paula Winn Perino, Director of Information and Government Affairs with the Tucson Airport Authority discussed the growing popularity of social networking sites. Benefits of using social media include reaching a broader audience, connecting with a larger population, immediate and interactive feedback, cheap and easy communication, and its use as a crisis management tool. In order to get started using social
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Holly Hawkins
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fund. Three million this year and $700,000 the next. Tuesday sessions included an overview of the FAA’s Safety Management Systems (SMS) and the impacts to commercial and general aviation airports. Joanne Landry, Landry Consultants, David Fleet, Principal, Dave Fleet Consulting and Chad Makovsky, Deputy Aviation Director, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, also touched on how to conduct a Safety Risk Assessment (SRA) and an airport operator’s perspective on how the new requirements affect airport tenants, construction activities and airport operator liability. Rich Schuller, left and Steve Rao, listen to a confernce speaker. Later in the morning, Jennifer Maples, Aviation Superintendant moderated a session on the first transit bridge built over an active taxiway in the world, Continued from previous page. currently being constructed at Sky Harbor airport in Phoenix. media, the duo suggested “doing it your way,” posting only Participants in the session included Bennett D. Sloan, Projects relevant information, establishing parameters, assigning a gate- Manager, Jacobs Engineerkeeper, and evaluating effectiveness. ing, Mark Pilwallis, Senior Finishing up Monday’s lineup was a session on Legislative Associate with Gannett Affairs. Moderator Jeffrey Tripp, Airport Projects SuperviFleming, Inc. and Tim sor for Mesa Falcon Field introduced Michael Racy, Principal Muller, Southwest Regional with Racy Associates and Casey Denny, Deputy Director for Manager for Austin Bridge Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport to give an update on legislation & Road. impacting aviation in Arizona. Wrapping up Tuesday Racy gave an overview of legislative bills this past session morning was a session on that could have impacted aviation adversely had they passed or information management if effective lobbying hadn’t taken place to protect airports. He with Gary Mascaro, Aviaalso talked about the ongoing effort in the Legislature to baltion Director, City of Scottance the budget. sdale and Kevin Shirer, Although the amount will not be as much, Denny said the Geospatial Project Manager Legislature will continue to sweep funds, including the aviation with Woolpert, Inc. Michael Hill moderated the session which highlighted Gary Adams asks a question while ways airports can better Bill Menard ponders the answer. manage the information they need to both operate efficiently and make timely decisions. The presentation covered common airport IT problems, IT system types, and trends in managing data. The afternoon sessions included an FAA/ADOT update with Ruben Cabalbag, Assistant Manager of the Los Angeles ADO and Holly Hawkins, State Airport Engineer with ADOT and a presentation by Gladys Wiggins, Director of Operations, Yuma International Airport on the Southwest Airlines Boeing 737300 that experienced a hole in the fuselage during a flight from Phoenix to Sacramento and diverted to Yuma.
AzAA
Ruben Cabalbag, FAA, left, Casey Denny and Jennifer Maples.
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Session on State Transportation Board Policies
Gladys Wiggins
Arlando Teller
Chuck Howe
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Michael Racy
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Dave Ploeger, Delta Airport Consultants Jim Taylor, Crouse Hinds Airport Lighting
2011 AzAA Spring Conference Break with the Exhibitors Over thirty-five exhibitors and sponsors support this year’s AzAA Spring Conference held at Harrah’s Hotel and Casino in Laughlin, Nevada. Photos By Kim Stevens
Tim Winkelman, ADB Airfield Solutions
Lance McIntosh, Jessica Mullen and Michael Hotaling with C&S Engineers
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Pam Keidel-Adams, Landrum & Brown and Steve Brewer, Brewer Cote.
Len Swartz and Diane Hofer with Olsson Associates
Donna Ryder, left and Catherine Alcorn, CR Engineers Inc.
Shannon Simon and Floyd Peterson with CSW Contractors.
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Ken Keatts, Erect-A-Tube
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Barry Staehs, left, Steven Jensen and Amie Raser.
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Mr. and Mrs. Michael Hemesath.
Mac McCall, Gary Adams and Pam Keidel-Adams.
AzAA President’s Reception and Banquet
Art Fairbanks, Mr. and Mrs. Dutch Bertholf.
Sandra Kukla and Jessica Mullen.
From left, Melissa and Steven Hulland and Stacy Howard.
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AzAA 2010/2011 Board of Directors
Steve Johnston and Judy Skeen.
Casey Denny presents the President’s Award to Meredith Burdett.
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Lance McIntosh, left, places the “Green Hat” on Casey Denny.
AzAA Names Thompson Executive of the Year Darryl Thompson, Assistant Airport Director for Laughlin / Bullhead International Airport was recently named the 2011 “Executive of the Year,” by the Arizona Airports Association (AzAA) at the organization’s annual spring conference held this year in Laughlin, NV. Thompson is a 34 year veteran in the aviation industry, having served at Indianapolis International Airport for 29 years before moving to Arizona in 2006 to accept a position at Yuma International Airport as Deputy Director. In 2007 Thompson, moved North along the Colorado River to accept his current position with the Laughlin/Bullhead City airport. “Darryl’s selection as 2011 Executive of the Year by AzAA pleases me tremendously,” said David Gaines, Director for Laughlin Bullhead International. “Not only has Darryl made significant technical and material contributions to his career endeavors, he has a very effective leadership presence that impacts all who work with him.” Gaines said that as his assistant, Thompson has been invaluable in his oversight of operational and project management. Criteria for the AzAA award includes having a broad depth of knowledge and understanding of aviation issues, proven contributions to aviation facilities and airport improvement projects, and to be well respected in the local, state and federal aviation community. Groomed to ultimately become airport director, Gaines said that Thompson’s professional bearing is notable whether he is working with staff, management, the public or with government officials. “Darryl is a great asset to this airport, to the industry and is a worthy recipient of this recognition by AzAA,” said Gaines. James J. McCue, A.A.E., C.A.E., supervised Thompson in Indianapolis back in the early 1980’s. “When I arrived in Indy in ‘81, Darryl was a welder in the Field Maintenance section,” said McCue, who is currently retired. “I was able to hire him as an Ops Manager around 1982 or ‘83’,” said McCue. “He took to the job like a duck to water.” McCue involved Thompson in the budget process in those early years and was his eyes and ears during a major construction project; a 1850 space parking garage; a 13 gate new concourse and a total renovation of the terminal. Thompson was able to “smooth over” any conflict and according to McCue was always with him during Presidential or Vice Presidential visits. “In nearly 10 years I never heard a complaint on how he operated,” said McCue. “He was loved by the tenants.” As part of the nomination process Thompson received letters of recommendation from numerous organizations and businesses all impacted by his service to them and the airport. Darryl volunteered on the AzAA Board, first by filling a vacancy in 2009. He served as Committee Chairman of Membership and on the Legislative Committee. Darryl managed the AzAA store for a year until he passed the role to a successor when elected 2nd Vice President. He served as Conference
Darryl Thompson
Committee Chair until his recent resignation due to health in January of 2011. David Gaines and Jim McCue accepted the award on behalf of their colleague and friend on Tuesday evening. Although not known at the time of the presentation, Darryl Thompson passed away on Monday, the night before. “He was not just an employee, but also a friend, a cohort and was like a son,” said McCue. Publisher’s Note I had the honor of knowing Darryl briefly and even in that short time can testify of the warmth and strength of his character and the passion he held for aviation and for the Laughlin Bullhead International Airport. We will all miss him. KS
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Laughlin Bullhead International
2011 ADOT Airport of the Year The Laughlin Bullhead International Airport was named the 2011 Arizona Airport of the Year by the Arizona Department of Transportation, (ADOT). David Gaines, Airport Director accepted the award during the banquet of the AzAA Spring Conference held on May 1st through May 4th in Laughlin, Nevada. “It is an honor to be recognized by ADOT as the airport of the year,” said Gaines. “There are a multitude of efforts that play into an airport having a positive impact on the community, the traveling public, and aeronautical users of the airport.” Holly Hawkins, State Airport Engineer for the Arizona Department of Transportation presented the award to Gaines after ADOT Director John Halikowski, in a pre-tapped video, announced the winner. Gaines said that two groups of people have played an important role in achieving the level David Gaines accepts the award from Holly Hawkins. of standard that made the award possible. The first group is airport staff. “We have fifteen employees five years ago to a solid financial position today. In spite of the who give 100 percent effort to carry out our obligations to the recent economic downturn, the airport has maintained its level public,” said Gaines. “Their dedication speaks to the pride they of operations and has continued to grow its revenue stream. show in what they do and how they do it.” The airport management team meets regularly with airport Secondly, according to Gaines, the Mohave County Airport tenants, providing and exchanging future plans and project Authority has established policies that provide a direction information which has ensured minimal disruption to airport for achieving growth and development that ensures a viable business during airport construction efforts over the past four future that will meet the needs of the region. “Then they allow years. management to put those policies in action,” said Gaines. “My The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) presented sincere thanks go out to those two groups for helping achieve Gaines and his staff with a Certificate of Appreciation for the our goals.” positive cooperation between TSA and airport staff for efficient Selection criteria used by ADOT’s Aeronautics Group within passenger check-in and screening processes. the Multimodal Planning Division consists of accomplishments in the areas of community relations, airport management, airport maintenance activities, as well as innovative activities and programs implemented at the airport. Relevant improvements to the facilities at Laughlin Bullhead International include terminal renovation, adding over 5,100 square feet for passenger processing and screening, extensive runway rehabilitation and safety improvements, including asphalt replacement, taxiway extensions, new airfield lighting, and improved parking areas. An Automated Weather Observing System was also installed, providing airport personnel and aircraft operators with the most advanced weather data gathering technology. Hawkins said in a prepared statement that major changes in Laughlin Bullhead International Airport. business operations have taken the airport from near insolvency
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