Meet the Airports Conference Speakers!September 23 - 25, 2025
Isaac Mendoza
Isaac Mendoza has been passionate about aviation for as long as he can remember. He began his journey in airport operations in the summer of 2016 with an internship at General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. In May 2017, he launched his professional career as an Airport Operations Specialist at Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI). In September 2019, Isaac joined the Greater Rockford Airport Authority as an Operations Specialist. He was promoted to Operations Compliance Supervisor in September 2021, and in August 2023, he assumed his current role as Operations Manager. In this position, he oversees day-to-day airside operations, ensures regulatory compliance, and supports the airport’s continuous improvement initiatives. Isaac holds a Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
Andrew has 16 years of Airport Operations experience working at three different commercial airports. Andrew’s airport operations career started in 2007 at the Charles M Schulz - Sonoma County Airport (STS) in Santa Rosa, CA, as an Airport Operations Specialist performing Operations, ARFF, Airfield/Terminal Maintenance. Andrew then moved to Eugene, OR in 2015 and joined the Mahlon Sweet Airport (EUG) as an Operations Duty Officer and conducted Operations, Badging and Security. Currently, Andrew is an Airport Operations Officer at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) in Grand Rapids, MI. In addition to work his experience, Andrew is a USAF Veteran and has been ARFF certified, attended both basic and advanced Airport Safety and Operations Specialist courses from AAAE, and earned his Airport Certified Employee (ACE) - Airfield Operations certification form from AAAE.
Ben Jachim is the Airfield Maintenance Supervisor at Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids, Michigan. With over 11 years of experience in airport operations, Ben has developed a strong passion for airfield maintenance, safety, and continuous improvement. He has completed the Basic Snow Academy and is advancing his expertise by attending the Advanced Academy in Buffalo this year. Dedicated to professional growth, Ben thrives on learning and training others in his field. In addition to his aviation career, Ben has proudly served as a paid on-call firefighter for the past 20 years, achieving the rank of Captain. His leadership and commitment to public safety extend from the airfield to the firehouse. A lifelong aviation enthusiast, Ben enjoys sharing his love for all things flight with his four boys, ages 16, 14, and twin 4-year-olds and wife Caitlyn. Whether exploring the great outdoors, embracing Michigan's four seasons, or traveling to new places, Ben values adventure, family, and hands-on experiences
Ryan is a senior aviation engineer known for delivering pragmatic, executable solutions tailored to the unique needs of Department of Defense clients. With extensive experience evaluating, designing, constructing, and maintaining the full range of airfield infrastructure, he blends deep technical expertise with strategic foresight to solve complex engineering challenges. Ryan is the founder and chair of the Military Aviation Subcommittee with the Airport Consultants Council and maintains active collaboration with DoD experts across the services. He recently retired from the U.S. Air Force as a Civil Engineer officer, where he completed over 200 military consultations and led major airfield projects on five continents. He previously led, developed, and instructed the Air Force’s Airfield Design
Tim is an experienced airport professional working on the concept, design, review, implementation, and close-out of pavement and construction projects for over two decades. Tim holds an Associate’s Degree in Construction Management. He earned his Project Management Professional Certification from the Project Management Institute in 2008 and his Certified Manager designation from AAAE in 2016. Tim holds a Commercial Pilot certificate with an instrument-rating, and is a licensed Part 107 UAS pilot. He maintains the OSHA 30-Hour construction safety designation and has presented at numerous aviation conferences across the United States since 2008.
Tim retired from the Columbus Regional Airport Authority as a Project Manager, where he led teams on major programs at John Glenn Columbus International and Bolton Field Airports. After retiring from the Authority, he led the Florida Statewide PCR program as a consultant from 2015-2018 . He has managed airside and landside PCI programs across the country, and is currently on the Kimley-Horn team for the Ohio and Alabama Statewide PCI programs. Genevieve (Gen) Long has 22 years of experience in airport pavement engineering, focusing on pavement management, evaluation, design, training, and research. She has extensive experience conducting pavement management programs, with visual pavement inspections as an integral part of those projects. She has also overseen pavement evaluations and designs at airports of various sizes across North America, including assessing non-destructive testing data, establishing coring/boring plans and reviewing results of geotechnical investigations, and using the FAA’s evaluation and design tools as part of her work.
Gen is a graduate of the University of Illinois and a resident of Champaign, IL. She is actively involved with ACC and its Engineering Committee, including having served as an instructor for various webinars and in-person pavement evaluation and design workshops.
When not working, she enjoys spending time outside (running, hiking, camping, kayaking, and gardening) and with her family.
Bryce grew up in a small town in northern Missouri. He attended the University of Central Missouri to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Aviation Management. He has worked at Kansas City Interational Airport (MCI) for over 2 years, first as an Airport Operations Agent and now as an Assistant Manager of Operations. His passion for aviation comes from flying with his grandfather while growing up, which prompted him to get his private pilot's license.
Eddie has been around airports since 2017, when he got his start as an intern at MSP. From 2018 to 2019, he worked in ARFF operations at LSE before moving to CMH from 2019 to 2020. He then joined DSM, where he grew into a supervisor role and now serves as a manager. A graduate of Florida Tech, Eddie first found his passion for aviation through the Civil Air Patrol and has been dedicated to airport management ever since. A fan of aviation history, his favorite aircraft is the Lockheed Super Constellation.
Jeff Harken brings over a decade of experience at Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport, where he currently serves as Manager of FAA Part 139 Compliance. He began his tenure at MSP as an Assistant Manager of Airside Operations and now leads cross-departmental coordination on regulatory oversight, response, and compliance initiatives. Prior to joining MSP, Jeff held operational roles at two other airports, which built a strong foundation in airfield management and safety. His career reflects a commitment to collaborative problem-solving in complex airport environments.
Joey Castiglione is the Director of Operations & Maintenance for the Grand Forks Airport. He holds a bachelors of Airport Management from the University of North Dakota and an Associates of Fire Science from the Community College of the Air Force. Joey served in the 119th North Dakota Air National Guard Fire and Emergency Services flight with multiple overseas deployments. He is also a Certified Member (C.M.) of the American Association of Airport Executives and a private pilot.
University of Purdue AAAE President
Double Major in Aviation Management and Aerospace Analysis.
Luke Mawhirter has served as the Executive Manager of Airport Operations and Field Maintenance at Kansas City International Airport since March of 2024. Prior to that he was the Airport Operations Manager, and has been with MCI Airport Operations since 2015. Luke attended the University of Central Missouri from 2007-2009, and holds a B.S. in Flight Operations Management and a Private Pilot Certificate. Over his 18 year career, he has worked at many Kansas City Metropolitan Area airports, including the Lee’s Summit Municipal Airport (LXT), Kansas City Downtown Airport (MKC), and Midwest National Air Center (GPH) as the Assistant Airport Manager prior to joining the Operations Division at Kansas City International Airport. He holds an ACE – Airfield Operations Certificate and is a Certified Member of AAAE.
Captain Mark Foisy has a bachelor degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan. He started his flying career when he entered USAF pilot training in 1988. He flew the F-16 Fighting Falcon, for both training and real-world operations, in the US, Korea, and Italy. For the last 26 years Mark has flown air carrier for both a regional, and a major airline, as well as 7 years as an Aviation Safety Inspector for the FAA.
 Matthew Powers Matthew Powers is the Manager of Operations & Public Safety at the Dane County Regional Airport (DCRA) and has been with the organization for the past 12 years and is responsible for managing staff that conduct daily enforcement of FAA Part 139 and TSA Part 1542 as well as State, County, and Local regulations. Before joining DCRA, Matthew was an Operations Agent at the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. Matthew has a keen interest in wildlife mitigation, airfield construction management, and Irregular Operations, and their impact on the airport environment. Matthew holds a private pilot’s license and has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Aviation Management from Louisiana Tech University. Matthew has been involved with industry organizations such as Bird Strike Committee (BSC) USA and the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE).
 Megan Murray-MylesMegan Murray-Myles is the Operations and ARFF (Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting) Manager at MBS International Airport, where she oversees a variety of critical operations to ensure the airport’s safety and efficiency. A graduate of Western Michigan University, Megan has a degree in Aviation Management and Operations, with a minor in General Business. Megan plays an active role in the Great Lakes Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives. She co-chairs the AAAE GLC Inclusion in Aviation and OSPEM Committees. Megan resides in Bay City with her two children and husband.
Mike Waller, A.A.E., ACE serves as the Airport Planning Manager for the Kansas City Aviation Department. He is an airport professional with over 26 years of planning project preparation and management experience at general aviation and commercial service airports, including Reliever and Medium Hub facilities. In this role, Mike coordinates and implements the federal Airport Capital Improvement Program for the Kansas City International Airport (MCI) and Kansas City Downtown Airport – Wheeler Field (MKC). Since beginning his tenure with the Department in 2019, Waller previously served as the Aviation Department’s Senior Planner. He currently oversees the CADD systems and staff for the Planning & Engineering Division. In addition, he is responsible for the management of airfield and landside planning, engineering, construction, and architectural capital improvements at MKC and MCI. Mike earned his Bachelor and Master of Science degrees from the University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, MO (formerly Central Missouri State University). He previously served as an adjunct faculty member with UCM’s Department of Aviation instructing graduate level courses in airport planning and design and undergraduate courses in aviation law. Mike is an Accredited Airport Executive and serves as a AAAE Accreditation Program mentor. He is also an FAA-certificated Private Pilot.
Philip Hirst is a Senior at Kent State University pursuing a degree in Aeronautics with a concentration in Unmanned Aircraft Systems and a minor in Aviation Management. He has gained diverse experience across the aviation business, from serving as the Assistant Operations Supervisor at the Kent State University Airport, to working in business aviation as an Aviation Student Associate with Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp., and as a Summer Analyst with Sky Harbour Group. In addition, he served two terms as President of the Kent State University chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives (KSU-AAAE), leading initiatives that connected students with industry professionals and expanded professional development opportunities.
Racheal Benezette is the Airport Operations Manager at Kansas City International Airport (MCI). She brings over two decades of leadership experience from the United States Marine Corps, where she retired in 2020 as a Chief Warrant Officer 3. During her military career, Racheal served as Station Captain and Training Officer for Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) and later managed Expeditionary Airfield Services—overseeing the installation of arresting gear and the construction and lighting of airfields in austere environments. Her final assignment was as ARFF Fire Chief at Marine Corps Air Station New River. Racheal holds a BS in Management/Finance from Park University and a Master of Arts in Teaching from William Jewell College. She is pursuing an MBA in Airport Management at the University of Central Missouri.
Scott Volberding, C.M, ACE is the Assistant Airport Director for the Appleton International Airport (ATW) where he is responsible for all aspects of the daily operation, planning, innovation, airport security and capital improvement projects. He has 30 years of airport operations experience at both Part 139 and General Aviation Airports, including many Fixed Base Operations (FBO) functions. Mr. Volberding previously held positions at ATW as Operations and Maintenance Manager and Director of Operations. From 2009-2013 Mr. Volberding was responsible for Airfield Operations at Austin Straubel International Airport in Green Bay. Mr. Volberding is a Certified Member (C.M) and ACE accredited by the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE). He graduated from the University Of North Dakota (UND) with a Bachelor of Science in Airway Science Management. He also received his Private Pilot License while attending UND.
Tyler Davies is a native of Kennesaw, Georgia. He enlisted in the United States Navy in August 2000 as an Aviation Electronics Technician. In eight years spent as an enlisted sailor, he worked on a myriad of naval aircraft to include the F-14 Tomcat, F/A-18 Hornet, E-2C Hawkeye, S-3B Viking, EA-6B Prowler, C-2A Greyhound, P-3 Orion, and several variants of the SH-60 Seahawks helicopter. He has been attached to numerous aircraft carriers throughout his career as well as deploying on the USS George Washington (CVN-73), USS Enterprise (CVN-65) and the USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70). While attached to Fleet Readiness Center Southwest in Los Angeles, he attained a Bachelor’s of Science in Organizational Management and earned his commission as an Ensign. After completing flight training, he received orders to NAS Lemoore, CA flying the F/A-18F Super Hornet. From there, he transferred to VFA-106 in Virginia Beach, VA as an Instructor Pilot. During his tour at VFA-106, he was then selected to fly for the Blue Angels. Throughout his three-year tour, in 2016, he flew as #7 the Narrator, 2017 as #6 the Opposing Solo, and in 2018 finishing up as #5 the Lead Solo. Shortly after, he transitioned to a flying training squadron in Pensacola, Florida where he eventually retired as a Lieutenant Commander in 2020. At the completion of his career, he accrued over 2,500 tactical flight hours, 3 combat deployments, and totaled 228 carrier arrested landings spanning ten different aircraft carriers. After retiring from the United States Navy, he flew for Federal Express as an MD-10, MD-11 and Boeing 767 First Officer. Throughout his five years with Federal Express, he flew all over the world gaining part 121 international flying experience. He accrued over 1,800 hours of 121 time.
Recently, a unique career opportunity became available and after a discussion with his family, he joined American Family Insurance flying the Gulfstream 450 based in Madison, Wisconsin.
Nathanael Corrales Nate has always had a passion for precision, problem-solving, and all things mechanical. He got his start with the Indianapolis Airport Authority as a summer intern three years in a row, before stepping into a full-time role supporting airside infrastructure projects. Nate holds his Certified Associate in Project Management credential and is currently working toward his PMP certification. Outside of work, he’s a fan of cars with cult followings, is diving into the world of day trading, and always looking forward to his next time in Los Angeles. For Nate, success isn’t just about getting the job done—it’s about adaptability, continuous learning, and bringing people together to create something greater.
Noah is a senior at Eastern Michigan University pursuing a degree in aviation management with a minor in business. He currently serves as the president of Eastern’s AAAE student chapter. This past summer, Noah completed an airport operations internship in Minot, North Dakota, where he took part in the airport’s triennial emergency exercise, Part 139 inspection, and numerous airfield improvement projects. Previously, Noah worked as a ramp agent for Southwest Airlines in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Noah is currently working towards his Private Pilot License and Certified Member certification. Outside of aviation, Noah enjoys playing soccer and volleyball, biking, and camping.
Eric Hanson is a seasoned project manager and airport engineer with 28 years of experience in airport planning and design. He has led the management, design, and construction of aviation projects for both commercial service and general aviation airports throughout the Midwest. Eric’s role encompasses all phases of aviation project delivery—from initial planning and environmental review to final design, bidding, and construction oversight. He works closely with airport sponsors to define their vision, build stakeholder consensus, and coordinate with state and federal agencies to secure project funding. He also manages the NEPA process to obtain environmental approvals. Throughout design development, Eric guides technical staff through preliminary concepts, design reviews, and final documentation. During construction, he and his team collaborate with airport managers and operations personnel to supervise field activities, implement modifications, and ensure smooth execution. After project completion, Eric oversees post-construction documentation and grant closeout procedures.
Evan Barrett, AICP, CM, is an airport planning consultant, environmental review practitioner, and project manager with nearly 20 years of experience at airports throughout the U.S. He manages the Midwest Aviation Planning practice at Mead & Hunt. Evan holds a Master of Science degree in Urban and Regional Planning and a Bachelor of Arts in History and Communications. He is also a AAAE certified member and belongs to the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP). Evan lives with his wife and daughter in Minneapolis, MN.
Joshua Burger, A.A.E. is the Operations Manager for the Columbus Regional Airport Authority (CRAA) at Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK) and Bolton Field (TZR). In his current role, he has managerial oversite of the operations at LCK & TZR as well as responsibility for the FAA Regulatory Compliance programs at both Rickenbacker and John Glenn International Airport (CMH). Joshua has been with CRAA for twenty years all within Airport Operations holding positions as a Coordinator and Supervisor prior to his current position. Prior to CRAA, Joshua worked for the Operations Department at Denver International Airport. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management from Southern Illinois University.
Rich began his career with Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines before moving into management positions at La Crosse Regional Airport and Sarasota Bradenton International Airport. He holds a degree in Aviation Administration from Utah Valley University and maintains certification as a Certified Member (C.M.) of the American Association of Airport Executives. Throughout his career, Rich has been recognized for his strategic approach, collaborative leadership, and focus on continuous improvement. Above all, his work is driven by a dedication to the passenger, ensuring that every operational decision supports a safer, more efficient, and more enjoyable journey for travelers.
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Ben Jachim
Tim Mentel
Jeff Harken
Joey
Jonah Blake Goldberg
Luke Mawhirter
Mark Foisy
Chris Pollock, A.A.E., is the Senior Manager of Airport Operations for Columbus Regional Airport Authority (CRAA). Chris has been with CRAA for over 18 years. Prior to CRAA, he graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Aeronautics from Kent State University, and worked at the Elko Regional Airport. As it relates to AAAE, Chris was a founding member of the Kent State student chapter of AAAE in 2005, and achieved ACE-Security, Certified Member designation, IACE, and achieved Accredited Airport Executive status. He recently became the Vice President for the GLC Chapter of AAAE, and is part of the leadership team for the Wildlife Working Group. Outside of work, Chis enjoys spending time with his wife and daughters, watching his dog eat all the plants out of his garden, and in his free time can be found running or biking on central Ohio's nature trails. 
Rich VonIderstine, C.M., is the Assistant Vice President of Operations & Maintenance at South Bend International Airport, where he oversees all aspects of airside and terminal operations, regulatory compliance, and facility management. With more than a decade of experience across both airline and airport leadership, he is committed to ensuring operational excellence and delivering a seamless travel experience for passengers.Announcements
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