Emerging Leaders Conference

12:15-12:45 p.m. ET
Start your day with connection! Join us for a 30-minute networking session before the first session of the day to meet fellow attendees in smaller breakout rooms. We'll kick things off with a fun icebreaker or thought-provoking topic to spark conversations and help you build valuable connections in the aviation industry.

1:00-2:00 p.m. ET
Join us for an insightful fireside chat featuring industry leaders. These executives will share their experiences, challenges, and visions for the future of the aviation industry. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in a candid discussion, gain valuable insights, and ask questions about the strategies driving change in their sector. Whether you're an industry professional, policymaker, or aviation enthusiast, this session promises to illuminate the path forward for aviation in a rapidly changing world.

Moderated by:
Austin Wheeler, C.M., Airport Manager, Tulsa Riverside Airport
Aaron M. Williams, C.M., ACE, Airside Operations Officer, Norfolk Airport Authority

Panelists:
Beatrice Batty, Director, Fuel Operations, Signature Aviation
Chris Jones, C.M., Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, Norfolk Airport Authority
Robert M. Rottman, Executive Director of Aviation Policy, Plans, and Engagement, Transportation Security Administration

2:15-3:15 p.m. ET
Industry experts will explore the unique cybersecurity challenges faced by modern airports. The session will cover emerging threats, best practices for safeguarding critical infrastructure, and innovative technologies that enhance resilience. Participants will gain valuable insights and practical strategies to bolster their airport's cybersecurity posture in an increasingly digital landscape.

Moderated by:
Michael Zoia, CPP, PSP, RCDD, Business Development Manager, Aviation & Federal Group, Burns & McDonnell

Panelists:
Eric J. Bowerman, Assistant Vice President, Technology Security, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport
Kyle Miller, Senior Manager Management Consulting, Plante Moran, PLLC
Madison R. Strong, ACE, Information Security Analyst, Tulsa Airports Improvement Trust

3:30-4:30 p.m. ET
Industry experts will share insights on maximizing your potential in the aviation sector. This session will cover essential strategies for skill development, networking, and mentorship to help you navigate your career path. Whether you're just starting out or seeking to advance, you'll gain valuable tools to propel your career to new heights.

Moderated by:
Caleb Rosenberg, C.M., ACE, Graduate Airport Planner, Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc. (SEH)

Panelists:
Patrick A. Barnes, P.E., Staff Civil Engineer, Burns & McDonnell
Dillon P. Chado, C.M., ACE, Director of Facilities, Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport
Sierra L. LePore, Director of Planning, Tampa International Airport

1:00-2:00 p.m. ET
This session offers an airport-focused exploration of the air service development process, covering everything from marketing initiatives and engaging with potential airline partners to the planning and operational readiness required to successfully launch new services. Participants will learn about the complex relationships and cooperation needed to secure new air service.

Moderated by:
Brady Brewster, Senior Aviation Planner, McFarland Johnson, Inc.

Panelists:
Mitchell J. Barry, Analyst, Domestic Network Planning, American Airlines
Anthony Gilmer, Vice President, Air Service Development & Strategic Marketing, Louisville Regional Airport Authority
Laura Jackson, Vice President, Air Service Development, Denver International Airport

2:15-3:15 p.m. ET
This session will explore the critical role of accessibility and inclusion in airport design and operations. Expert speakers will discuss key accessibility programs, how resources are secured to implement these initiatives, and the technologies driving accessibility forward. Attendees will gain insights into the practicalities of executing projects, moving above and beyond ADA standards. This session highlights the broader impact of these efforts and the role of planning and project management in building a truly inclusive airport experience for every traveler. 

Moderated by:
Kristina Conklin, A.A.E., Assistant Manager, Terminal Operations, Metropolitan Airports Commission

Panelists:
Phil T. Burke, Assistant Director, Customer Experience, Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport
Kirk W. Goodlet, Ph.D., Senior Director, InterVISTAS Consulting USA LLC

3:30-4:30 p.m. ET
Hot topics for Emerging Technologies. This session will focus on 3 areas of emerging technologies that relate to all areas of the Airport. From the Aeronautical viewpoint, a member from Beta Technologies will be discussing the future of EvTOLs. From the Airport efficiency side, Joanne will discuss new technology in Airport SMS implementation, and from the passenger experience, 2 members from Grand Rapids Airport will discuss the new sign language video boards. 

Moderated by:
Angela Pitts, C.M., ACE, Airport Operations, Springfield-Branson National Airport

Panelists:
Tom Cizauskas, A.A.E., Business Manager, Gerald R. Ford International Airport
Joanne M. Landry, MBA, PMP, Principal, Landry Consulting LLC
Gerald D. Swain, Jr., C.M., IT Manager, Gerald R. Ford International Airport
Nate Ward, Lead of North American Charging Equipment Sales Team, BETA Technologies

4:45-6:00 p.m. ET
Wrap up the conference with fun and connections! Join us for the virtual closing reception, where you can unwind and network with your fellow attendees. It’s the perfect opportunity to celebrate the end of an inspiring event, share laughs, and make lasting connections in a relaxed, engaging atmosphere.