Hotel Accommodations
All events (except where noted in the agenda) are being held at the Desoto Savannah, 15 East Liberty Street, Savannah, GA; phone 866.810.5325. We have secured two separate room blocks. The first room block is for all Non-Federal or Non-Military attendees. You will receive a special rate of $239 single/double, plus tax. The second room block is a per-diem rate for Federal and Military attendees. You will receive a special government per diem rate of $147 single/double, plus tax. Please note, you must provide appropriate documentation at check-in or you will be charged the higher rate.
The last day to receive either of these discounted rates Thursday, March 14, 2024. Rooms may sell out before this date, so make your reservations early. You can call the hotel directly at 866.810.5325 and tell them you are with the Industrial Aviation Workshop or book online directly using the following links:
Recommended Hotel
Sheraton Suites Old Town Alexandria (a Marriott Brand), located across the street from AAAE, 801 N. Saint Asaph, Alexandria, VA 22314.
You may click here for the reservation link. If you wish to reserve via phone, you may also call the Marriott Central Reservations- US/Canada: 1(888)236-2427. To be included in the designated group, please provide the following group name: AAAE ROOM BLOCK AUG2025
James R. Nilo, C.M., ACE, IACE
Owner
JRN Consulting
Chief (Ret.) James “Jim” Nilo, C.M., ACE began his airport career in 1984 as a Crash Fire Rescue crewman in the U.S. Marine Corps and later served as a Firefighter/EMT with the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority at Washington National Airport. He continued his public safety career with the City of Manassas Fire and Rescue, while also serving as an Adjunct Instructor for the Virginia Department of Fire Programs—a role he still maintains.
In 1994, Jim became a regional training manager with the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, leading ARFF training development and helping secure the state’s first mobile aircraft live fire trainer. He earned the 1998 Virginia Aviation Person of the Year award for his contributions to ARFF.
In 1999, Jim was appointed Fire Chief at Richmond International Airport, eventually overseeing ARFF, Operations, Communications, Grounds, and Maintenance. He retired from public service in 2016 after 13 years in that role. Jim is now the founding partner of JRN Consulting, advising on airport operations, safety, and emergency services.
Jim has taught at the National Fire Academy and held leadership roles in organizations such as the ARFF Working Group. He resides in Virginia with his wife and their two dogs, Malcom and River.
