Tanner Way serves as the Manager of Training and Certification Programs at the American Association of Airport Executives, where he collaborates closely with airport professionals nationwide to deliver high-quality training, certification, and continuous professional development programs. His work emphasizes operational excellence, safety, regulatory compliance, and the thoughtful integration of technology to enhance program delivery and member engagement.
A dynamic, results-driven professional, Tanner brings extensive experience in airport operations, management, security, and education. He is highly skilled in delivering industry-aligned training programs. Tanner has completed specialized training through the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency in Counterintelligence and Counter Proliferation, as well as advanced training with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office for Bombing Prevention.
Tanner is a distinguished alumnus of Southern Illinois University, where he earned both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Aviation Management, with dual undergraduate minors in Airport Planning and Air Traffic Control. He graduated Summa Cum Laude with Highest Honors and is a licensed private pilot, bringing practical aviation experience into his professional work.
Prior to joining AAAE, Tanner worked in Operations and Communications at Southern Illinois Airport, one of the busiest airports in the State of Illinois. His professional background also includes experience in data analysis, internal auditing, quality and regulatory compliance, system development, graphic design, and marketing. Tanner holds multiple industry certifications, including the Certified Member Professional Airport Management Certification, Airport Certified Employee - Safety Management Systems, Airport Certified Employee - Law Enforcement Officer, and International Aerodrome Certified Employee, further reinforcing his broad expertise and leadership within the aviation industry.