State Aviation Journal Issue #19
Summer 2013
Cover Photo by Jack Tyson ‘Most Creative’ Category 2012 Iowa Aviation Photo Contest
NAA Presents Henderson Trophy to Colonel Joseph Kittinger
Chicago Executive Hosts GA Aviation Issues and Security Conference Summer 2013
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Cirrus Aircraft display at the AOPA Summit. Photo by Kim Stevens
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Publisher/Editor Graphic Design Vice President/Operations Layout Design Photography
Contributing Writers
Kim Jeffrey Stevens Andrew Stevens Deborah Stevens Andrew Stevens Shahn Sederberg Kim Stevens Andrew Stevens Carol Groff
On The Cover
Penny Hamilton Wendie Davis-Grauer Scott Malta Jenny Watts Lara Jackson Bill Withycombe
Publisher/State Aviation Journal 3535 S. Ball Street Arlington, VA 22202 623-326-1125 www.stateaviationjournal.com
Cover photo by Jack Tyson. His photo won second place in the 2012 Iowa Office of Aviation photography contest (Most Creative Category). Photo courtesy of Iowa Department of Transportation, Office of Aviation.
Contents From the Publisher
Memories and Po Siam
Page 4
Chicago Executive Hosts
GA Issues & Security Conference
Dog Is My Co-Pilot
Page 6
Cassandra Isackson Some Thoughts on Runway Safety
California’s Cathey Reports from Qatar
Page 14
Minnesota’s New Director
Page 8
Page 9
NAA Awards Henderson Trophy Page 12
Fredericks Leads
Page 20
Rhode Island Airport Corporation
Page 22
Knowing the Customer Key as Aviation Consultants Seek Market Share
Page 24
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From the Publisher
Closing the Door on Po Siam or... Letting Memories Stay Memories I’ve never really analyzed why I hang on to some memories more than others - the good ones that is. One reason I’m guessing is that the people associated with those good memories are, in some ways important to me and by that I mean that they hold a special place in my life. I won’t say “in my heart,” because then I’d have to explain to a few, what I mean by that. What’s kind of funny is that I’m not even sure that those folks represented in my good memories were even impacted by the same event or even remember it the way I do (or remember the event at all)! I do believe that memories need to be shared. Dave Brenner is quoted as saying, “Friends are the most important part of your life. Treasure the tears, treasure the laughter, but most importantly, treasure the memories.” Back in the early 1990s, I was introduced to a Thai restaurant in Arlington, Virginia named Po Siam. On a trip to Washington D.C. some good friends of the family introduced me to a couple of Thai restaurants in the area. The Colonel, as I will refer to him, had spent some time in Thailand during the Vietnam War and developed an appreciation for great Thai food. When he and his wife brought me to Po Siam for the first time, something clicked and I knew that this would be a special place for me - one that I would share with many friends over the coming years. Every time I found myself in D.C. I would make time to grab a lunch or dinner at the restaurant on Mount Vernon Avenue, just across the Potomac River. My most memorable meal was a dinner with several state aviation directors and a staff member of the National Association of State Aviation Officials, (NASAO) during the association’s Washington Legislative Conference. When I brought the Page 4
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group in, the owner recognized me from previous visits and welcomed us by saying “ah, Nebraska” (I was the Director of the Nebraska Department of Aeronautics at the time). Needless to say, we proceeded to indulge in Satay, Tom Kai Guy and other delicious entrees and of course washed it all down with plenty of Singha beer. That evening has always stood out as one of my most memorable times. After a couple of more years of steady visits, my trips to D.C. began to be less frequent and even though I never forgot the restaurant, I realized it had been over a decade since I’ve been back. I was amused to discover that I still have a dozen Po Siam business cards left over from the early days; I use to give them out everywhere I went, encouraging folks to dine at the best Thai restaurant in the U.S. Well, life takes some interesting turns and I found myself back in D.C., this time as a resident of the same community the restaurant was located in. I didn’t even think about it at the time, but as it turns out, I ended up living within a mile of Po Siam in Arlington. It’s an easy walk,
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so recently I made my way along a branch of the Four Mile Run trail and found my favorite Thai restaurant. It looked like I remembered it from the outside and for the most part the interior had a familiar air to it. I couldn’t identify the feelings at the time, but something was cautioning me to go easy as I was led to a table. As I waited for my meal, I tried to conjure-up the particulars of previous visits, but it wasn’t the same. It was then that I realized that perhaps I was trying to recreate an event from my past. I knew then that it wasn’t the event I was trying to recreate but the feelings; warm smiles, slaps on the back, laughter almost to the point of tears - creating lasting relationships, with people that for many reasons do indeed hold a special place in my life – OK, in my heart as well! As I came to terms with the knowledge that I miss these friends and the times we have shared together, I realized that I came back to Po Siam, not so much for the food, but to try and fill a void that has remained empty for some time - the camaraderie. As I paid the bill, I mentioned to the hostess that it had been many years since I had dined there and that I felt it was still the best Thai restaurant around. She smiled graciously and told me that they were pleased that I was able to join them one last time. You see, I discovered that they are closing soon. I almost missed the opportunity to realize some important things about myself and about life - that sometimes good memories should remain just that… memories. Someone was quoted as saying that it is strange how we hold on to pieces of the past while we wait for our futures. Jeremy Irons said, “We all have our time machines. Some take us back, they’re called memories. Some take us forward, they’re called dreams. One thing I believe (and I’m quoting here) is that every memory of friendship shared, even for a short time, is a treasure, like sunshine and warmth in our lives, like a cool breeze on a humid day, like a shower of rain refreshing the earth.
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700 Cats and Dogs Rescued by Dog Is My CoPilot After pre-flighting the aircraft, 30 dogs are loaded into a Cessna 206 (T206H). There is plenty of room in the back with all of the seats removed. Behind the wire doors of the crates, dogs smile, a little nervous about the unknown, but relieved to be given a chance at life. The dogs were at risk of euthanasia just hours earlier until the rescue organization partnered with the shelter to prepare the dogs for a flight to freedom. They settle down after the taxi out, and remain calm until a very gradual descent to the destination begins. Pilot Peter Rork will fly this route and others like it several times a month, saving hundreds of animals. On the ground, Judy Zimet, serves as Ground Control, planning and coordinating these life saving flights. They are part of an organization named Dog Is My CoPilot, Inc., a 501(c)3 approved nonprofit organization that rescues abandoned cats and dogs and flies them to “furever” homes. Dog Is My CoPilot (DIMC) decreases the number of animals killed in shelters and increases shelter adoption by flying animals to areas where they are more adoptable. DIMC is supported solely by donations. DIMC works with established nonprofit animal rescue organizations (AROs) to coordinate flights. AROs pull animals from open admission shelters and move them to safety in humane rescues, breed specific rescues, and foster/furever homes. When the distance the animals need to travel is too great for over-the-road transport, DIMC swoops in to fly them. DIMC flies as many animals on one flight as possible. This keeps costs down and saves more animals. DIMC coordinates with AROs with too many small dogs and too few large dogs, and AROs with too few small dogs and too many large dogs. By transporting large and Page 6
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Judy Zimet with dogs from Maricopa County Animal Control who are ready to board the plane headed to “furever” homes.
small dogs to areas where they are quickly adopted, and cats to areas where they are more adoptable, more animals reach furever homes. DIMC flies the Rocky Mountain and Pacific regions. As DIMC widens the geographic circle of potential homes, AROs will find homes for more abandoned animals. Also, by providing rescues with the types of animals adopters want, DIMC ensures adopters choose abandoned animals rather than purchase from online sellers and puppy mills. Most of the routes are well established. DIMC flies a route from Idaho Falls, ID to Oakland, CA to Merced, CA to Provo and Logan, UT and Missoula, MT ap-
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Pulled from an overcrowded California shelter, these 31 dogs were flown to Montana forever homes by pilot Peter Rork.
proximately twice a month, saving as many as 40 dogs each trip. DIMC also flies Idaho Falls, ID to Rawlins, WY to Ft. Collins and Denver, CO as well as Phoenix, AZ to Boise, ID and Elko, NV to Seattle, WA. Routes are “built” to maximize lives saved, which means that the plane is almost always full. However, when there is space available, DIMC will accept single transports on board as long as the source and destination rescues are also nonprofit organizations recognized as tax exempt by the federal government. Dog Is My CoPilot’s website is http://www.dogcopilot. org the Facebook page is at http://www.facebook.com/ DogIsMyCoPilotInc. Information for pet owners, stories of rescue flights, and opportunities to support the organization are available on both sites. Dog Is My CoPilot is the outgrowth of the generosity of Dr. Peter Rork, orthopedic surgeon, pilot, and dog lover who began donating his time and his Cessna 206 to animal rescue organizations in 2008. He envisioned a charitable organization that supports animal rescue organizations’ quest to find homes for animals. After the death of his wife, also an animal lover, Dr. Rork contacted Judy Zimet, an Arizona attorney and passionate animal lover with many years of experience launch-
ing, boosting and operating nonprofit organizations. They began Dog Is My CoPilot, in June 2012, received 501(c)3 status in August 2012, and by the close of its first year in operation, transported over 700 abandoned cats and dogs to safety. With an impressive Board of Directors passionate about aircraft and animals, Dog Is My CoPilot is fully committed to its mission of flying animals to safety. Please go to http://www.dogcopilot.org to see how DIMC saves lives and to support its mission.
One of the Chihuahuas from Phoenix’s HALO posing in the cockpit before climbing into his crate for a flight to a town with many people waiting to adopt him.
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Some Thoughts On Runway Safety By Bill Withycombe Looking back over my career with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as both a Flight Standards Division Manager and as one of FAA’s Regional Administrators I can recall many Runway Safety Incidents and Accidents which focused attention on the importance of Runway Safety at our nation’s airports. The world’s worst aircraft accident occurred in 1977 at Tenerife Island Airport located off the coast of Spain. The accident was caused by a runway incursion. This terrible accident involved over 500 fatalities following a take-off collision between two commercial airline Boeing B747 aircraft using the same runway. The accident reports sighted a number of contributing factors but communications, airport geometry and poor visibility were major factors. The troubling thought is that these conditions can exist at any airport. This places emphasis on the important need for continued vigilance, improved operational conditions and personnel training along with situational awareness. Considerable progress has been made towards improving runway safety since the Tenerife accident thanks to coordinated efforts by the aviation industry and the FAA. However, safe operation of airport runways must remain as a priority for both large and small airports throughout the country. It is the responsibility of the airport operators and the users of the airport who are conducting operations on the runways, surface taxiways and ramps. Runway incursions can result from aircraft, vehicles or pedestrians being in the wrong place at the wrong time near or on the airport’s runways especially where aircraft are taking off or landing. Today’s new large aircraft and jet operations at small single runway airports adds to the airport complexity and the possibility of a runway incursion. The FAA’s Airport’s Divisions and District Offices located in each of the nine FAA Regions are responsible Page 8
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for working closely with each airport sponsor at both large and small airports in the regional area. In addition, Special Runway Safety Program staff, from each FAA Region and Headquarters, provide focused evaluation of airports and analysis of airport “hot spots” which may contribute to the potential for accidents. The FAA has taken runway accidents very seriously and has invested in new technology to help protect runways throughout the nation. This includes the installation of Airport Surface Radar, Runway Status Lighting Systems and improved runway marking and lighting systems. Airport geometry remains one of the major problem areas at many airports throughout the country. As airports grow in complexity and new larger aircraft are operated from their runways it raises new safety and capacity challenges. In many cases the need for safety demands that the existing geometry of airport runways and taxiways be modified. This results in the need for major construction projects such as runway or taxiway relocation or modification. These changes can become very costly and in many instances problematic to implement due to environmental issues associated with them. Runway incursion problems can occur in a number of ways. Airport operators need to be aware of potential “hot spots” which are areas of the airport that may be prone to runway incursions. These problem areas can be caused by confusing or nonstandard airport signs or markings and even airport construction programs. I recall such a problem resulting from confusing runway hold lines being misunderstood by transiting pilots at a small airport where heavy weekend operations were taking place. The transiting pilots were not familiar with the airport and were being misled by confusing runway markings.
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In this case the FAA worked with the airport sponsor to reconfigure the surface markings and even worked with the airport to develop a pilot familiarization video for transiting pilots. Another area of concern can come from vehicles being operated on the operational surfaces of the airport. This can be aircraft towing operations or airport maintenance vehicles being in the wrong place near aircraft operations. At one airport I recall that grass mowing operations resulted in a runway incursion and collision between the mowing equipment and an aircraft. These situations call for corrective action in the form of improved communications and the training of ground equipment operators. Airports subject to Airport Certification by the FAA are required to have such approved programs and procedures. Giving the airport “hot spots” some thoughtful consideration and follow-up corrective action can go a long way toward prevention of dangerous operating conditions. The FAA’s Air Traffic Organization tracks runway incursions at airports. A rating system has been developed that places incursions into categories depending upon the severity of the safety problem created by the incursion. These categories are rated as A through D depending upon the potential collision hazard created by the incur-
sion - with Category A being the most serious situation. I know of no airport operator who wants to have the distinction of being rated as the airport with the most incursions or the most Category A incursions. Those airports with the highest number are singled out for special attention and inspection by the FAA to ensure corrective actions are taken to eliminate the risk of incursions. The bottom line is incursions are not acceptable and must be addressed. Over the years the FAA along with airport sponsors, industry representatives and the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO), have worked together in partnership to ensure continued safe airport operations. These organizations have focused upon the runway incursion problem and developed procedures and safety practices intended to reduce and eliminate runway incursions. The use of new technology and advanced analysis methods, have made significant advances in safety in our airport operating environment. My thoughts are that it will take this kind of continuous teamwork to ensure we never have another runway incursion accident like the one that occurred on Tenerife Island. Bill Withycombe is an aviation consultant and retired Regional Administrator of the FAA.
California’s Cathey Sends Greetings from Qatar Gary Cathey, Division Chief for the California Department of Transportation, Aeronautics Division, is an officer in the Air Force Reserve and was mobilized to Active Duty to perform civil engineering duties in support of Operation Enduring Freedom for 6 months beginning February 16, 2013. Although he is stationed at an airbase near Doha, Qatar, his area of responsibility (AOR) covers two continents and eight countries, ranging from Djibouti in northern Africa to Kyrgyzstan in southwest Continued on next page.
Cathey in Kandahar, Afghanistan
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Cathey Continued from previous page.
Asia. “I work for the Air Force Civil Engineer Center, Contingency Construction Management Branch based at Langley AFB, VA,” said Cathey. Its mission is to provide lead Air Force design and construction management oversight for “cradle to grave” execution for a wide variety of Air Force military construction projects in the region. Currently, according to Cathey, the branch manages more than 160 projects valued in excess of $2.5 billion, at sites throughout the Mid-East and surrounding areas. “The majority of the projects are located in the Central Command AOR, at nearly 20 joint-use airports and military airfields sited in Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, and Oman.” Cathey admits that his geographical knowledge of the area was somewhat limited before he was assigned to work there. “I bet I would have been challenged to tell you the difference between the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea,” said Cathey. But not anymore, since Cathey has already traveled to most of those countries carrying out his responsibilities to review the construction projects and to meet with U.S. and host nation project managers, construction managers, engineers and contractors. Projects range from the construction of parallel taxiways and aircraft parking aprons, to very large aircraft hangars, multi-story steel-framed buildings, and fuel farms. “The primary task of the Construction Management Office (CMO) where I work is to ensure that the scope, budget, schedule, quality, and functionality of each project is maintained throughout the construction process,” said Cathey. Although the CMO will soon consist of six Air Force civil engineers, all are not located in Qatar. To be efficient and effective, office staff is placed at locations where the majority of the work occurs. However, since Cathey’s job requires him to be familiar with all of the projects, he has had to travel to many cities, including Bagram, Kandahar, Istanbul, Kuwait City, Doha, Abu Page 10
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Inspecting a new fuel farm at an airbase in Oman
Dahbi, Dubai, Muscat and Djibouti. As might be expected, the weather there is generally very hot and humid – for example, Cathey says the average daily high temperature for the first week in June was about 105 F and the relative humidity ranged between 30 to 60 percent. “I’ve been told to expect the temperature to rise about 5 degrees F per month through August,” said Cathey. “In the course of my travels, I’ve seen a very large lizard, a couple of desert foxes, and a few camels, but no snakes, scorpions, or infamous camel spiders – yet!” So, according to Cathey, “life is good.” Cathey said he looks forward to resuming his duties with the Division of Aeronautics as soon as he gets released from his current assignment. When able, Cathey reads his Aeronautics email and communicates about aviation issues with Dennis Jacobs, the Acting Chief. “When I get back, I should be in the loop on most topics,” said Cathey. “I expect to return to the office around the second week of September.” In the mean time, Cathey extends his appreciation to everyone that has given Dennis Jacobs and Kome Ajise their support and for doing a great job promoting and sustaining aviation safety in California.
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Sherry Butcher, right, introduces Kittinger (to her right) to family and friends prior to the luncheon.
NAA Awards Kittinger with Henderson Trophy A luncheon sponsored by the National Aeronautic AsThe Henderson Trophy is awarded to “… a living insociation in June was the backdrop for the presentation dividual, group of individuals, or an organization whose of the 2013 Cliff Henderson Trophy, which was given vision, leadership or skill made a significant and lasting this year to Colonel Joseph Kittinger, USAF (Ret.). On Continued on next page. August 16, 1960, Joe Kittinger became an aviation pioneer with the “highest step in the world” when he made history as he ascended to 102,800 feet in a high-altitude balloon and jumped to Earth. Kittinger, who is enshrined in the National Aviation Hall of Fame, has also set several ballooning and parachuting records, was a noted test pilot and was held as a prisoner of war by North Viet Nam for nearly a year. Sherry Butcher, President of the United States Parachute Association provided introductory remarks and Tony Velocci, retired editor-in-chief of Aviation Week and Space Technology was the guest speaker. Colonel and Sherry Kittinger greet Henry Ogrodzinski, President of NASAO. Summer 2013
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Left to right are Steve Champness, Walter Boyne, Chairman of NAA and J.R. ‘Hotdog’ Brown.
Henderson Trophy Continued from previous page. contribution to the promotion and advancement, of aviation and aerospace in the U.S. The NAA Fall Awards Banquet is scheduled for Tuesday, November 12th.
Sherry Butcher talked about the impact that Col. Joseph Kittinger had on her life.
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Col. Joseph Kittinger and Sherry Butcher, President of USPA.
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Justin Towles, AAAE welcomes attendees to the conference.
Chicago Executive Hosts GA Issues and Security Conference The General Aviation Issues and Security Conference (GAISC) organized by AAAE, was held July 9 – 11 outside of Chicago in Northbrook, Illinois. More than 60 attended the event hosted by the Chicago Executive Airport. Immediately following the conference an Airport Sponsor Assurances, Leasing Policies, and Minimum Standards Workshop (SALPMSW) was also held. The conference is focused exclusively on general aviation issues and challenges – its prevailing theme and was developed to address key issues faced by the general aviation industry today and the key challenges the industry may face tomorrow. The GAISC provides the opportunity to discuss and debate key issues and challenges, more clearly define industry problems, exchange ideas,
Jamie Abbott, Chicago Executive
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and explore potential solutions. Additionally, participants are able to network with prominent leaders in the general aviation segment of the industry and with government officials. “When I think of everything that general aviation is about and how it all works together, it’s truly impressive,” said Paul Meyers, a principal with Aviation Management Consulting Group (AMCG). “From aircraft, engine, and avionics manufacturers to salespeople to flight instructors to pilots to FBOs and SASOs to airports and ATC, it’s an intricate and vital transportation network where the whole is greater than the sum of the parts.” For general aviation to thrive, Meyers said that all the parts need to work
Jeff Kohlman, AMCG
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Continued on page 16.
Barry Cooper, FAA
Ben De Leon, FAA
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Matthew Maass, Oregon State Airports Manager, left and John Kastens, Manager Airport Operations, Teterboro Airport.
Scott McMahon, Morristown Municipal, left and Paul Meyers, AMCG.
GA Issues Continued from page 14.
Neal Katz, Chicago Executive Airport Board Member, left and Robert Olislagers, Centennial Airport, Colorado.
together. “Most importantly,” said Meyers, “We need to stick together.” AMCG has played an instrumental role as a marquee sponsor since the event’s inception with Meyers, along with Jeff Kohlman, another principal with AMCG, participating as program and agenda planners, session moderators and presenters. Meyers and Kohlman worked closely with AAAE and the leadership of the General Aviation Airports Committee to make this year’s conference a success.
Attendees enjoy a lighter moment during one of the sessions.
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Attendees take a break with exhibitors between sessions.
General aviation security was of course on the agenda, with an update provided by Robert Olislagers, Executive Director, Centennial Airport in Colorado and Tina Gabbrielli, from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. A panel discussion on the state of the general aviation industry also took place the first morning with participants, Henry Ogrodzinski, NASAO, Bill Dunn, AOPA, Mike France, NATA, Dick Doubrava, NBAA
and Justin Towles, AAAE. Ogrodzinski also joined Ben DeLeon, FAA, later in the day to update attendees on the FAA’s ASSET Program, a study tasked to reclassify general aviation airports. FAA’s Great Lakes Regional Administrator, Barry Cooper along with Mark Fox, Flight Standards NextGen Branch, presented an update on NextGen. Generating a Continued on page 19.
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From left are, Dick Doubrava, NBAA, Mike France, NATA and Paul Meyers, Aviation Management Consulting Group.
Michael Toscano, President & CEO, Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International, left and Ashish Solanki, Maryland.
Elizabeth Nicholson, NATA, left and Lisha Harris, Tampa Int’l Airport.
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Tina Gabbrielli, Director, Air Domain Intelligence and Integration Element, Office of the Director of National Intelligence.
Larry Bowron, W.K. Kellogg Airport, left and Barry Cooper, FAA.
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GA Issues Continued from page 17. lot of interest was a session on Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), given by Michael Toscano, President and CEO, Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (UVSI). Other agenda topics included wildlife hazard assessments and management plans, aviation risk management and airport insurance and aeronautical and non-aeronautical revenue development. The SALPMSW workshop was conducted by AMCG’s Meyers and Kohlman. For 15 Justin Towles, AAAE years they have conducted the workshop on behalf of AAAE. Described by Meyers as dynamic and highly interactive, the workshop takes a best
Elisha Luyeho, FAA, left and David Washington, Memphis Int’l.
practices approach to the development, implementation, and enforcement of a number of critical primary management and compliance documents for airports including leasing/rents and fees policies, minimum standards, and rules and regulations. Justin Towles, AAAE, said that attendance was up for this year’s conference and that organizers were pleased with the outcome. Towles said even with all of the success this year, he believes next year’s conference will be even better.
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Tom Kaiser, left and Rob Nadr, Nation Air Aviation Insurance.
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Minnesota’s Isackson Brings Extensive DOT Experience to Position of Aeronautics Division Director By Lara Jackson After 15 years with the Minnesota Department of Trans-
portation (MnDOT), Cassandra Isackson was named the new Director of Aeronautics. Isackson officially began the position on April 24, 2013. Isackson held several positions before ascending to the Director of Aeronautics position, including most recently, the Director of the Office of Transportation Data and Analysis (TDA). The responsibilities of TDA include: • Fully utilizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and other technology and modifying business plans based on outcomes • Coordinating MnDOTS’s traffic monitoring and vehicle classification programs to produce average annual daily traffic volumes for trunk highways and local roads • Responsible for MnDOT’s Transportation Information System, an integrated database containing roadway and selected bridge, accident, traffic and pavement data. Isackson has also worked in other offices at MnDOT including the Office of Traffic, Safety and Technology; the MnDOT Metropolitan District Office; the Office of Project Management and Technical Support and Materials and Road Research. Before joining MnDOT, Isackson began her career at the Alabama Department of Transportation, where she worked in Materials and Tests for five years. She also holds a Bachelor in Science in Civil Engineering from the
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Cassandra Isackson
University of Alabama and is a registered professional engineer in Minnesota. “I believe my past positions have prepared me for this position. In addition to managing the state airports funding, which includes money for various projects including runways and terminals – I believe my materials and civil engineering background have given me a better understanding for such projects,” explains Isackson.
Planning for the Future Recently Isackson and MnDOT completed its 50-Year Vision for Transportation. Updated every four years, “Minnesota’s Statewide Transportation Plan establishes overarching guidance and priorities for making transportation decisions across all modes focusing on activities over the next 20 years.” Looking to the future, the MnDOT continues its part-
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nership with the University of Minnesota’s AirTAP program, a “...statewide program that helps Minnesota’s public and private-sector airport professionals improve the safety, quality, and efficiency of operation and increase the use of new aviation materials, practices and technology.” “This [AirTAP] is a great program – it provides a e like th . Just m ON e te s ic n sy cs off much-needed autiknowledge aviatio Aeron tics state’s fe, the eronau a A s e s h y . T tify n fe e a ighwa s id transfer between ts to ther, older system d, ligh viation anothe painte s to g rt in o ark e airp und and m om on ss aro tograthe younger w an fly fr cgeneration keep nd mo pilots a to le w p o eo low sn lified p nt to p of qua generation in aviation,” influx n have a explains Isackson, “Ase the inth ort to d supp ices an frastructure ages and the baby rv e s e provid fees to m: o fr d nerate are ge boomers continue to retire, we flight processes need to discover theirnew xes on ta r e th of o in lieu irlines and utilize new technology.” “I’m enjoying working with stakeholders in Minnesota – I’m very fortunate aeronautics has positive backing in the state. The basis of the Minnesota State Aviation System Plan, part of the 50-year plan is that aviation is a means to an ends – be it traveling for business or transporting for recreation.” In addition to her other responsibilities, Isackson will continue to T state monies and invest those maximize M n / Df AOe ro n a u ti c s ic e o O ffdollars into providing excellent and safe transportation for those who travel in Minnesota and utilize the state’s aviation infrastructure. inecreek Piney-P
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Some of the publications of the MnDOT Aeronautics Division.
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State Aviation Journal Page 21
Kelly Fredericks Taps Experience to Lead Aviation in Rhode Island By Kim Stevens Prior to being selected this year as the new President and CEO of the Rhode Island Airport Corporation (RIAC), Kelly Fredericks, had just come off a five year stint as Senior Vice President for the Corradino Group in Fort Lauderdale, Florida leading their efforts as Program Manager for the design and construction of a multi-Billion dollar airport expansion program at Fort LauderdaleHollywood International Airport (FLL). That experience, along with more than 30 years in the airport management and transportation industry, served as a good primer for what he now faces in Providence. “These past five years have allowed me to work closely with and observe FLL’s airport director, Kent George, who I think is as good as it gets in our business as an airport director,” said Fredericks. “Kent was the customer and it certainly gave me a whole new perspective on customer service.” That interaction, combined with the culture of his former employer, Corradino Group, really exposed him to a whole new level of stakeholder interac-
Kelly Fredericks
tion and putting people and the customer first. “[Those are] all things I will continue to do in Rhode Island,” said Fredericks. The transition to his new position has been “fantastic, because of the people,” said Fredericks. “I can definitely say that I have never felt more welcomed by the staff, my Board members and all of our stakeholders.” Fredericks
Gates at TF Green Airport in Providence.
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said he thought he had done extensive due diligence during the position selection process, however, “there are far more opportunities here in Rhode Island than I could ever have envisioned.” Fredericks, a native of Pennsylvania and a graduate of Penn State University, says that experience has helped prepare him in his current role. He is an Accredited Airport Executive, Registered Professional Engineer (PE) and a licensed private pilot. Fredericks has previously served as the executive Director/CEO at Erie International Airport, Tom Ridge Field; Deputy Aviation Director (COO) at Pittsburgh International Airport and Manager of State-Owned Airports/Improvements at Harrisburg International Airport. For Fredericks, the top priorities at RIAC will be air service development and successful completion of their airport expansion program. “We must maintain a ‘people first, strategy second’ attitude for our organization and I believe strongly that our best days are ahead of us,” said Fredericks. “As we continue to grow and improve all facets of our aviation system, I feel we can dramatically improve our overall economic impact to the regional economy.” The biggest challenges for Fredericks, who was a unanimous choice by the RIAC Board when selected, are to maintain a relentless pace in advancing air service development efforts while at the same time managing their quarter of a Billion dollar airport expansion program which will culminate with the extension of their primary runway in late 2017. “While we have a very good plan of finance in place for our airport expansion program, in light of the uncertainty of future FAA funding levels and timing of FAA grants, our project schedules will have almost zero tolerance for error or delay.” Fredericks says two things fire him up the most about coming to work each day; the people he gets to work with on a daily basis and the myriad of
different issues that managing a medium hub airport along with five other airports as part of the Rhode Island Airport Corporation presents. “It definitely never gets boring and I love the fact that our business leaders, elected officials and overall stakeholders place such high emphasis on the importance of our airports to Rhode Island’s economic future,” said Fredericks. When not at work, Fredericks loves participating in all sports, particularly golf, biking and skiing. “I love to kick back and read,” says Fredericks, who admits to being addicted to reading. Also, as a long time private pilot, he is looking forward to getting back to flying again on a regular basis. Finally, and most importantly for Fredericks, he says he loves spending time with his two grown daughters – “who I don’t get to see nearly enough.”
Summer 2013
State Aviation Journal Page 23
Knowing the Customer is Key, as Aviation Consultants Seek Market Share same things about differences but I think it’s the specific State aviation agencies and airports have a wide choice in firms to consider for the work at hand – whether that be an economic impact study, developing a master plan, creating a pavement preservation program, terminal design and construction or paving a new runway. And, the firms available, are not only numerous, they come in many different shapes and sizes. Whether looking for an engineering firm, a design firm, a specialized firm catering to one discipline or another or just picking a consultant to encompass them all… the question is sometimes - how do you pick the right one! Many firms, whether they are firmly ensconced in the industry or have just recently hung their e-shingle under the digital eave, are smart to anticipate that question and include it in their marketing plan. “We offer the industry something that is not easily found in the marketplace,” said Steve Baldwin, President and CEO of Steve Baldwin Associates. “Expert staff, that have extensive policy-level experience directly operating airports, possess significant private sector experience and have advanced degrees related to their specialty area of practice, including MBA, MPA or JD.” Baldwin says that most of the staff are certificated Baldwin pilots as well, allowing them to bring a users perspective to their assignments. “We focus on the quality not quantity, which has been successful for us.” Knowing the market, what the clients are looking for and knowing the value that is offered to the clients is important for Pamela Keidel-Adams, an experienced aviation industry consultant. “I think most consultants say the Page 24
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knowledge of technical work that is uncommon,” said Kiedel-Adams. “I think what separates firms, differs based on the project and client: location, history with client, specific technical expertise or experience.” In terms of enhancing and promoting the difference, Keidel-Adams says that it depends on what that client is looking for. “Some are looking for innovation and something new that hasn’t been done while others liked what someone else did and they want it replicated but made specific to the conditions in their state.” The key, according to Keidel-Adams is an understanding of what they’re looking for in order to determine what should be promoted. For Marr Arnold Planning (MAP), it’s recognizing that the aviation industry is a dynamic and ever changing environment. “Now, more than ever, we believe that it isn’t entirely “what you know” but “who you know.” The two founders/owners of MAP, Summer Marr and Sara Arnold, recognize that it sounds cliché, but relationships are a cornerstone to their strategy to win work. Whether that is cultivating new relationships with other consultants and potential clients or continuing to build on existing relationships with these same organizations. For the client, it’s still good to know what separates one company from their competition and how to identify that expertise. Steven Baldwin Associates identifies themselves as a niché firm that specializes in assisting governmental bodies, airport boards and airport management at the policy-level, with the objective of operating airports in the most efficient and effective manner as possible. “Currently, we are the consultant of record transferring the Syracuse Hancock International Airport from a mayor/ city council form of government to a newly created independent regional authority,” said Baldwin. “It is believed all parties will benefit from this transaction.” Because they are specialized, 90% of their work is based on their performance with existing clients and derived through word-of-mouth.
Summer 2013
Since their inception in 2011, MAP has taken a nontraditional route related to marketing their services. As a small woman-owned DBE company, they try to get as much value out of their marketing efforts as they can. According to the co-owners, fostering existing relationships and making new contacts is the key to their success and all marketing efforts. As a result when it comes to tradeshows, they make the conscious decision to attend those that support the relationships that they currently have in place as well as attend those that give them the most exposure to new and existing clients. They cite the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) Annual Convention as an example. Trade shows can be helpful to show potential clients that a firm is interested in the market and according to Keidel –Adams they can also help you to learn more about the current topics and/or meet a wide variety of potential clients. “Sometimes it’s good to meet people at a tradeshow instead of an office setting to get to know them in a more informal way,” said Keidel-Adams. “I also feel that going and meeting the client at their office is important to allow you to meet others in the client’s business and to show them that you are willing to travel and see them in their environment to learn more about what they are looking for and need from consultants.” For Baldwin, who has been involved in numerous aviation associations and organizations over the years, those affiliations has led him to attend (by his estimate) more than 200 trade shows over his career. “I think participation is very important for several reasons, with business development being one of them,” said Baldwin. “Remember, the conference or trade show for those who really participate is the culmination of the behind the scenes work.” He says that to offer expertise and help frame the policy dialogue of these organizations is important and something each of the airport consulting firms should be doing. Currently, they are engaged in a policy dialogue regarding changes occurring with ACI-NA, and are working with the New York Airport Management Association on issues regarding their home state. Baldwin likes their growth model and the track they are
MAP co-founders, Summer Marr, left and Sarah Arnold.
on and after working for a very large firm for more than 15 years, is glad to get back to focusing on what his company is best at. “As owner/CEO of the firm, I am in touch with each of our clients on a day-to-day basis, and directly involved with the design, management, and completion of their work,” said Baldwin. “It is refreshing to be involved in such a manner and as we grow, our goal is to not lose sight of these values.”
Summer 2013
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