North America/Central Europe Airport Issues Conference
October 20-22, 2025 | Poland
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About the Conference
In partnership with the International Association of Airport Executives (IAAE), we are pleased to present the 28th Annual North America/Central Europe Airport Issues Conference, to be held in Poland, October 20-22, 2025.
As in past years, key aviation officials from throughout the region will participate in the conference, including representatives from Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Montenegro, Poland, Romania, Serbia, and the Slovak Republic. In addition, U.S. Commercial Service officers from U.S. embassies throughout the region will participate.
Reunite with your airport, airline, and government colleagues, and come away with solid, practical information and new contacts that can help you work more efficiently, now and in the future.
Who Should Attend?
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Airport CEOs/Directors from Central Europe, Eastern Europe, the U.S., and others with interest in these regions.
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Government officials from the U.S., and Central and Eastern Europe
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Airport planning, business development, marketing, and international affairs professionals
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Airline executives
- Industry suppliers, consultants, and partners
Conference Agenda
The 2025 agenda is coming soon. For planning purposes, refer to the 2024 agenda below.
Monday, October 21
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Registration
8 a.m.-2 p.m. (Olympia Hall foyer)
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IAAE Board of Directors Meeting
9:30 - 11 a.m. (Attica Hall)
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Special Activity for Foreign Airports (closed event)
11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. (Attica Hall)
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City Walking Tour: Acropolis Mythology and Culinary Journey
12:30 - 3:30 p.m. (meet in hotel lobby)
Sponsored by Rhode Island Airport Corporation and Jeanne Olivier, AAAE, IACE, Past Chair AAAE and Principal, JMOlivier LLC
Step into the enchanting world of ancient Athens, where myth and history intertwine at every corner. This immersive tour begins with an expert-guided exploration of the archaeological site of the Acropolis, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion, and the Parthenon. Discover the gods, heroes, and mythical tales that have shaped Greek culture and continue to inspire the world. After absorbing the historical ambiance, transition from ancient to modern with a culinary adventure through Athens’ vibrant food scene. Savor traditional Greek meze, souvlaki, and local sweets as you explore the bustling Varvakios Market, a favorite among locals. This experience offers a unique blend of history and gastronomy, providing a comprehensive taste of Athens' rich cultural heritage.
Learn more.
Dress Code:
For your comfort and enjoyment, we recommend wearing casual, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes, as there will be some walking involved during the tour. -
Opening Reception
5:30 - 6:30 p.m. (Roof Garden)
Sponsored by San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
Tuesday, October 22
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Registration
7 a.m. - 3 p.m. (Olympia Hall foyer)
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Networking Breakfast
7:45-8:30 a.m. (Olympia Hall foyer)
Sponsored by United Airlines -
Welcome and Conference Overview
8:30-8:50 a.m. (Olympia Hall)
Speakers:
Heba Gouda, Vice President, Global Operations, AAAE
Kevin Bumen, A.A.E., C.A.E., IAAE Chair, Chief Finance and Commercial Officer, San Francisco International Airport
Dr. Yiannis Paraschis, Managing Director (CEO), Athens International Airport
Dr. Christos Tsitouras, Director General, Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority
Riccardo Lambiris, Member of the Organizing Committee IAAE and Former Chair of the Board, Athens International Airport
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Keynote Address
8:50 - 9 a.m. (Olympia Hall)
Speakers:
H.E. Karine Asselin, Ambassador of Canada to Greece and High Commissioner to Cyprus
Maria Olson, Chargé d'affaires, U.S Embassy, Athens
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Global Aviation Outlook
9 - 9:15 a.m. (Olympia Hall)
Speaker:
Gonzalo Velasco, Director, Aviation Matters, Steer Infrastructure and Asset Advisory, Steer Group
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Session 1: Aviation, Tourism, and the Regional Airports
9:15 - 10:15 a.m. (Olympia Hall)
Join us for an informative session for developing airport infrastructure to serve tourism or develop tourism as an industry, including an analysis of the economic impact of aviation on tourism.
Moderator:
Matija Bračić , Assistant Professor, Head of Laboratory for Modelling and Simulation in Aviation / Air Traffic Management, University of Zagreb
Speakers:
Ioanna Papadopoulou, Director Communications, Athens Airport
Perry J. Miller, A.A.E., IAP, AAAE First Past Chair, President and CEO, Richmond International Airport
Grzegorz Bykowski, Chief Executive Officer, Poznan Airport
George Vilos, Executive Director of Commercial and Business Development, Fraport Regional Airports of Greece Management Company
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Networking Coffee Break
10:15 - 10:45 a.m. (Olympia Hall foyer)
Sponsored by Michael Baker International -
Session 2: Environmental Sustainability
The Environmental Sustainability session, parts 1 and 2, will focus on addressing the most critical environmental challenges facing the aviation industry today. It aims to explore innovative strategies and best practices for promoting sustainability in airline operations and airport infrastructure development.
10:45 - 11:30 a.m. (Olympia Hall)
- Part 1: Airline Sustainability Issues
Part 1 will address topics such as carbon neutrality targets, Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs), electrification and hybridization, sustainable procurement practices, and circular economy initiatives.
Moderator: Dr. Kostas Iatrou, Director General, Hermes - Air Transport Organization
Speakers:
Kevin Bumen, A.A.E., C.A.E., IAAE Chair, Chief Finance and Commercial Officer, San Francisco International Airport
Gregoire James, Commercial Director, International Aviation Waste Management Association (IAWMA)
Marina Spyridaki, Corporate Affairs Manager, AEGEAN Airlines
11:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. (Olympia Hall)
- Part 2: Airport Sustainability Issues
Part 2 will address topics such as net-zero airport infrastructure, sustainable terminal design, green ground operations, biodiversity conservation, and resilience and climate adaptation.
Moderator: David Full, AICP, Vice President, Aviation Environmental Service Group, RS&H
Speakers:
Dr. Guillame Burghouwt, Head of Strategy, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
Emmanouil Moustakas, General Director of Business Development and Executive, GEK TERNA Group of Companies
Josip Klišmanić, General Manager, Zadar Airport
Tonci Peovic MBA IAP, Consultant, Dubrovnik Airport, Croatia
- Part 1: Airline Sustainability Issues
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Competency Building Service Overview
12:15 - 12:30 p.m. (Olympia Hall)
Speaker:
Tonci Peovic, MPA IAP, Consultant, Dubrovnik Airport (Croatia)
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Networking Luncheon
12:30 - 1:30 p.m. (Kalliroe Hall)
Sponsored by Birmingham Airport Authority -
Session 3: Navigating the Future of Urban Air Mobility
1:30 - 2:30 p.m. (Olympia Hall)
This discussion will focus on the forefront of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), with a special lens on Urban Air Mobility (UAM) and its seamless meld into urban infrastructures. Leveraging the insights from Paris's air mobility endeavor during the Olympics, this session will aim to dissect the initial flight ventures and the successful strategies that marked their integration. The dialogue will navigate through the multifaceted challenges and vast opportunities that UAM presents, spanning technological, regulatory, logistical, and environmental domains. The session is crafted to equip aviation professionals with an in-depth understanding of how urban landscapes can evolve to accommodate this innovative mode of transport, emphasizing efficiency, safety, and sustainability in the aerial domain.
Moderator: Kevin Bumen, A.A.E., C.A.E., IAAE Chair, Chief Financial and Commercial Officer, San Francisco International Airport
Speakers:
Tomislav Lang, Managing Director, Flyvbird
Wendy L. O'Connor, Executive Director of Advanced Air Mobility Integration, U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
Matija Bračić, Assistant Professor, Head of Laboratory for Modelling and Simulation in Aviation / Air Traffic Management, University of Zagreb
Verity Richardson, Director, Business Development, Archer Aviation
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Session 4: Navigating the Path to Privatization
2:30 - 3:30 p.m. (Olympia Hall)
This session will provide a comprehensive examination of the current trends, challenges, and opportunities surrounding airport privatization initiatives in both regions. We will explore the unique regulatory, economic, and operational considerations relevant to airport privatization efforts, with a focus on fostering dialogue and sharing insights among stakeholders from Central Europe and North America.
Moderator: Paul Hollingshead, Vice President, International Strategic Partnerships, S2 Global, Inc. - Sister company Rapiscan Systems
Speakers:
Rick S. Crider, A.A.E., AAAE Chair, Airport Director, Prescott Regional Airport/Ernest A Love Field
Riccardo Lambiris, Former Chair of the Board of Directors, Athens International Airport
Crawford Burden, Managing Director, Global Aviation, Europe and India, AECOM
Teta Karachaliou, Corporate Planning Director, International Airport Heraklion Crete Airport
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Networking Coffee Break
3:30 - 3:45 p.m. (Olympia Hall foyer)
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One-on-One Meetings
3:45 - 4:45 p.m.
Organizations hosting tables:
• Department of Commerce, Greece
• Commercial Service, Croatia
• Department of Homeland Security, Greece
• Department of State, Greece
• U.S. Department of Homeland Security - Transportation Security Administration- Embassy of the United States of America – Warsaw, Poland
• TSA Area Representative Belarus – Bulgaria - Estonia – Latvia – Lithuania – Moldova – Poland – Romania - Russia – Ukraine
• Commercial Service, Embassy of Canada, Greece
• U.S. Federal Aviation Administration Greece -
Host Dinner: Acropolis Museum & Dinner with a View - Discovering the Ancient World
6:30 - 9:30 p.m.
Hosted by Athens International AirportImmerse yourself in the rich tapestry of ancient Athens with an exclusive evening at the Acropolis Museum. This guided tour offers a unique opportunity to delve into the daily lives of the ancient Athenians, as told through the artifacts and relics preserved in one of the world’s most renowned museums. The tour is thoughtfully designed to be both educational and engaging, connecting the past to the present in a meaningful way. Following the museum experience, indulge in an elegant gourmet dinner at the museum’s restaurant, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the illuminated Parthenon. This evening promises to be a perfect blend of culture, history, and fine dining, making it an unforgettable experience.
Welcome Remarks
Michail Kefalogiannis, Chairperson of Athens International Airport's Board of DirectorsKevin Bumen, A.A.E., C.A.E., IAAE Chair
Dress Code:
For this evening event, we kindly suggest dressing in smart casual attire, reflecting the sophisticated ambiance of the evening.
Wednesday, October 23
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Registration
7:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. (Olympia Hall foyer)
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Networking Breakfast including Keynote Speaker: Dr. Debora Cazzani, Marketing & Export Manager, MC Solutions
8 - 8:30 a.m. (Olympia Hall foyer and Olympia Hall)
Sponsored MC Solutions & Marcos Costilla Aviation Consulting Group LLC -
Session 5: Mastering Aviation’s Regulatory Landscape
8:30 - 9:30 a.m. (Olympia Hall)
This session will focus on the dynamic regulatory landscape governing the aviation sector, providing attendees with essential updates on regulatory frameworks and compliance requirements. With a spotlight on harmonization efforts within the European Union and the United States, this session aims to explore the complexities of regulatory compliance and its impact on airlines and airports. Participants will gain valuable insights into the latest regulatory developments, challenges, and opportunities shaping the aviation industry.
Moderator: Wendy L. O'Connor, Executive Director of Advanced Air Mobility Integration, U.S. Federal Aviation Administration
Speakers: Pepi Lykou, General Director Economic Oversight, Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA)
Nicholas Robinson, Associate Assistant Deputy Minister (AsADM) of Safety and Security, Transport Canada
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Session 6: Airfield and Airspace Safety Management: Innovations and Collaborations
9:30 - 10:30 a.m. (Olympia Hall)
During this wide-ranging session, we will delve into critical safety issues and advancements in both airfield and airspace management within the aviation industry. Attendees will gain insights into the challenges, innovations, and collaborative efforts aimed at improving safety and efficiency in airfield operations and airspace management. With a focus on technological advancements and cross-border collaboration, this session aims to foster discussions on the modernization of airfield and airspace management systems and the promotion of seamless operations.
Moderator: Jeff Mulder, A.A.E., Former IAAE Chair, Airports Director, Will Rogers World Airport (Oklahoma City, Okla.)
Speakers:
Michael Meyers, P.E., Manager, Airport Engineering Division, Office of Airport Safety and Standards, U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
Irakli Karkashadze, CEO, United Airports of Georgia
Marcos Costilla, President and CEO, Marcos Costilla Aviation Consulting Group LLC
Debora Cazzani, Marketing and Export Manager, MC Solutions S.r.l
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Networking Coffee Break
10:30 - 11 a.m. (Olympia Hall foyer)
Sponsored by United Airlines -
Session 7: Enhancing Aviation Security - Strategies for Cyber Resilience and Collaborative Security
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (Olympia Hall)
This session will focus on the critical aspects of aviation security and cybersecurity, addressing the evolving threats and challenges faced by the industry. Attendees will explore measures to enhance aviation security in the region and the United States, with a particular emphasis on cybersecurity challenges in air transportation. The session will also highlight collaborative efforts aimed at fostering a secure aviation environment through information sharing, partnership building, and technological innovation.
Moderator: Jeanne Olivier, A.A.E., IACE, Airport Management Advisor
Speakers:
Brian Krenzien, Senior TSA Official Operating in Eastern Europe, Direct Representative to the TSA Administrator, and Attaché, Department of Homeland SecurityLance Lyttle, IAP, Managing Director, Aviation, Port of Seattle
Darren Large, A.A.E, Director, Facilities & Operations, Morristown New Jersey Airport
Vangelis Morfis, Security Go-To-Market Manager, Enterprise, Cyber and Electromagnetic Activities, Microsoft
Paul Hollingshead, Vice President, International Strategic Partnerships, S2 Global, Inc – Sister of Rapiscan
Tomasz Majewski, Director, International Sales, Hertz New Technologies
Arnaud Laroche, West Europe Sales Manager, Security Enterprise Solutions (SES), Leidos
Tim Stelkens-Kobsch, Aviation Security Researcher, Project Manager at Wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiter bei DLR (German Aerospace Center)
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Session 8: Synergies in the Sky - Reinventing Aviation through Collaborative Dynamics
12:30 - 1 p.m. (Olympia Hall)
How we are dealing with different passenger trends, Gen Y concession impact, efficiencies with ANSPs, integrated and dynamic aviation system can reduce carbon emissions.
Moderator: Ronald F. Mathieu C.M., President and CEO, Birmingham Airport Authority
Speakers: Olga Toki, Air Traffic Controller and Vice President of the Board, GATCA, Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA)
Dario Vrancic, Head of Air Traffic Services (ATS), Air Traffic Controller, Instructor, Assessor, BHANSA
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Session 9: Reenergizing Talent in the Airport Sector
1 - 1:30 p.m. (Olympia Hall)
Explore the challenges and opportunities, focusing on the trend of people leaving the workforce and the imperative to engage younger generations. address the evolving needs and expectations of the workforce. Share success stories, from both sides of the pond!
Moderator: Riccardo Lambiris, Former Chairman of the Board, Athens International Airport
Speakers
Mark D. VanLoh, A.A.E., Chief Executive Officer, Jacksonville Aviation Authority
Prof. Dr. Andreas Papatheodorou, FHEA, FTS, Director - Laboratory of Tourism Transport, Infrastructure and Destination Development and Board Member, Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA)
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Conference Adjournment and Invitation to the 2025 Conference
1:30 p.m.
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Networking Lunch
1:30 - 2:30 p.m. (Kalliroe Hall)
Sponsored by Jacksonville Aviation Authority -
Athens International Airport Tour
2:30 - 5:30 p.m. Meet in hotel lobby
Registration Fees & Deadlines
2025 registration fees are coming soon. Please check back for updates.
You acknowledge that in registering for and attending this AAAE event, you agree to adhere to the cancellation policy noted below, AAAE's Duty of Care, and AAAE's Code of Conduct and Terms and Conditions.
2024 REGISTRATION FEES
If you are not seeing the correct pricing appear for your member type, please contact member.services@aaae.org to complete your registration for this event.
| On/Before September 6, 2024 |
After September 6, 2024 |
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| IAAE/AAAE Member | $750 USD (~€699*) | $850 USD (~€792*) |
| Non-Member | $850 USD (~€792*) | $950 USD (~€885*) |
| Exhibit Tabletop Additional Personnel | $495 USD (~€461*) | $550 USD (~€512*) |
| Guest** | $300 USD (~€279*) | $350 USD (~€326*) |
*Exact Euro amount will be determined by your individual bank at time payment is processed. Fees are charged in U.S. dollars. Registrant responsible for any foreign transaction fee.
**Guest refers to a spouse, significant other, or personal friend, NOT a business associate or staff colleague affiliated with the aviation industry. Guest registration provides access to the welcome reception and evening event only.
AAAE accepts registration regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, sex, physical disability, and national or ethnic origin. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment and educational services. If you require any special assistance to participate or have special dietary requirements, email aaaemeetings@aaae.org.
Accredited Airport Executives:
The course is worth 12 credits in the AAAE Continuing Airport Management Education Unit (CEU) program.
Cancellation Policy:
Registrations, cancellations and refund requests must be submitted in writing. All cancellation requests for registrations received on or before Friday, Oct. 4, 2024, are subject to a $175 cancellation processing fee; approved refunds will be processed after the meeting takes place. There will be no refunds of any kind after this date. Cancellations with outstanding invoices received within two weeks of the start of the conference, will require full payment on the balance due. Refunds will not be provided, and balance dues will not be forgiven for no-shows. Substitutions within the same conference will be accepted without penalties. The difference between member and non-member price will be charged if a non-member replaces a member. Substitutions will be accepted with a written request to AAAEmeetings@aaae.org. The individual substituting for the original registrant is responsible for all financial obligations (balance due; difference in fees due to membership type) associated with that substitution. For all inquiries regarding cancellations, refunds and substitutions, please contact the AAAE Meetings Department at 703.824.0504 or email AAAEmeetings@aaae.org. By submitting a completed registration form, you acknowledge that you have read and understand the cancellation policy. Please note failure to receive a confirmation letter before an event will not be grounds for a refund or credit.
NOTE: AAAE reserves the right to postpone or cancel an event if the number of registrants is insufficient; due to acts of God; or any other reason beyond AAAE’s control. In this event, we will notify all registrants and credit the full registration fee towards another AAAE meeting, product or service. However, any costs incurred by the registrant, such as hotel cancellation or airline penalties, are the responsibility of the registrant. Confirmation letters will be emailed to attendees within two weeks of receipt of registration. However, if you have not received a confirmation email two business days prior to the meeting, and you enrolled at least two weeks prior to the meeting, please contact the AAAE Meetings Department at 703.824.0504 or AAAEmeetings@aaae.org. Please note failure to receive a confirmation letter before an event will not be grounds for a refund.
Media Access Policy:
AAAE reserves the right to grant at its sole discretion access to TV, radio, and print media organizations or individuals that have registered and received prior authorization from AAAE at least 72 hours prior to an AAAE event they wish to cover. Due to the sensitive nature of some discussions, not all sessions at some AAAE events will be open to media. AAAE retains the sole right to grant or refuse media access for any event or section of an event it operates.
Photo/Video Disclaimer:
By registering for and attending any AAAE event, you agree that your image may be used at any time, without further notification, for printed materials, web sites, social media and other marketing purposes.
Hotel & Travel
Hotel Accommodations
Hotel information is coming soon. Please check back for updates.
Travel
Traveling to Greece from outside the country? Be sure the check visa requirements and apply early!
Airline Information
United Airlines and Delta Air Lines have been selected as the official air carriers for this meeting. When booking United, refer to the offer code ZNSQ375349. When booking Delta, refer to meeting code NM36J.
United Airlines has been selected as one of the official air carriers for this meeting. United Airlines is pleased to offer discounts of 2% to 10% off published fares. Save an additional 3% by booking your own reservations at www.united.com. Choose your flight times, and access your meeting discounts by inserting ZNSQ375349 in the Promotions and Certificates Offer Code box. Or Call your travel professional or United Meetings at 800.426.1122 for reservations. Refer to Z Code ZNSQ and Agreement Code: 375349.
Delta Air Lines is pleased to offer special discounts for American Association of Airport Executives Please click here to book your flights! You may also call Delta Meeting Network® at 1.800.328.1111* Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. (CT) and refer to Meeting Event Code NM36J.
*Please note there is not a service fee for reservations booked and ticketed via our reservation 800 number.
Ground Transportation
Check back for ground transportation information.
Make a Lasting Impression by Sponsoring!
This conference is designed to provide business executives with an edge in developing meaningful working relationships in the U.S./Central European airport/aviation market. Increase your company's visibility by sponsoring. You will be demonstrating your company's dedication to promoting excellence through education with your target audience.
Don't see an event or option that meets your needs? Contact Holly Ackerman to discuss other alternatives.
Sponsor Benefits:
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Listing as an exclusive sponsor of conference event
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Thank-you signage prominently displayed
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Verbal recognition during the program
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Advance and final roster in Excel
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Listing on AAAE mobile app during conference
Thank you to Our 2024 Sponsors!
Contact Information
Questions? Contact Us!
Program:
Heba Gouda
+1.703.797.2545
Registration & Hotel:
Jonna Thoma
+1.703.797.2578
Sponsorship:
Holly Ackerman
+1.703.578.2507
Press & Media Inquiries:
Brian Kalish
+1.703.575.2461
