Trainer's Forum
June 8, 2025 | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. ET | Atlanta, GA
The countdown to this event is over!
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About the Course
Join us at the Trainer’s Forum during the 97th Annual AAAE Conference & Exposition for a high-impact day focused on the future of aviation training. This year’s theme, Charting New Courses, dives into how we adapt education for evolving workforces—from engaging young professionals to leveraging AI for better retention and performance.
Through interactive sessions, expert panels, and networking opportunities, we’ll explore leadership development, certification success strategies, and innovative training tools reshaping the industry. Whether you’re building new programs or fine-tuning existing ones, this forum will equip you with actionable insights and fresh perspectives.
Come connect, learn, and lead the next wave of aviation education.
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Course Agenda
Sunday, June 8, 2025
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Training Committee Meeting
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Explore AAAE’s strategies and key training initiatives to enhance current programs and identify areas for growth.
- Discussion of key training initiatives
- Analysis of current programs and areas for improvement.
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Session 1: Leadership Development Training
10:30 Am - 11:20 AM
Leadership Elevation: How do we equip today’s leaders for today’s workplace challenges?
Speaker: Mindy Price Chief Pace Setter, Direct Effect Solutions
- Discussion of today’s leadership needs and skills
- Using AAAE Leadership Development Training
- Key industry resources for professional development
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Session 2: AI Use Case - The Science Behind Retention: The Forgetting Curve
11:30 AM - 12:20 PM
The forgetting curve is costly for workforces, leading to operational mistakes, lost productivity, and training that doesn’t stick. The learning sciences give us powerful strategies to combat forgetting, and AI makes delivering these strategies efficient and effortless. Organizations using Blank Slate’s AI-driven learning platform have seen measurable workplace improvements through the use of dynamic, year-round reinforcement. Research has shown that this technology can detect and close knowledge gaps across workforces and can teach employees new material in the absence of lectures. AI paired with cognitive science presents a modern alternative to cram-and-dump training: A smarter, more efficient way to close knowledge gaps across workforces and keep critical knowledge top of mind.
Speaker: Amy Smith, PhD | Scientific Officer, Blank Slate Strategies
- AI applications in training programs
- How AI enhances knowledge retention and engagement
- Insights into future trends in AI-driven learning
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Lunch & Networking
12:20 PM - 1:05 PM
Lunchtime Synergy : Connect and Rejuvenate
Take a break with a delicious lunch while networking with fellow professionals to build lasting connections.
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Session 3: Yo Pros – How Training Must Adapt
1:05 PM - 1:55 PM
Understand how young professionals prefer to learn and adapt training methods to fit their unique needs. Dive into generational shifts and AI-driven training solutions.
Moderator:
Sean Moran, C.M., ACE, IACE | Airport Operations and Compliance Manager, King County International Airport – Boeing Field
Panelist:
Tanner Way, C.M., ACE, IACE | Manager Training and Certification, AAAE
- Understanding the preferences of Yo Pros in training
- Exploring how their preferred learning methods differ from traditional approaches
- Discussion on generational shifts and AI adaptations in training
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Session 4: Panel Discussion - Certification Mastery: Success Through Preparation
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Certification Mastery: Success Through Preparation. Tackle the challenges of professional certification programs with best practices for preparation. Learn how DFW and others formed study groups, utilized AI resources, and achieved certification success.
Moderator: Syed Mehdi, A.A.E., | Vice President, Airport Planning, Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority
Panelists: Cathy Haggerty, CPLP | VP Training, AAAE
Jim Nilo, C.M., ACE, IACE | Owner, JRN Consulting
- Challenges and opportunities in professional certification programs
- Best practices for certification exam preparation
- Strategies for forming study groups and utilizing available resources
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Exhibit Hall Open
5:00 PM
Visit the Exhibit Hall to uncover the latest innovations and cutting-edge technologies shaping the future of aviation.
Registration Fees & Deadlines
2025 REGISTRATION FEES
Registration Type |
Rate |
Non-Member Registration |
$95 |
Member Registration |
$75 |
The last day to register is 6/7/2025.
Please note: Forum registration fees are separate from the 97th Annual AAAE Conference & Exposition. To register, please visit here.
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.
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About the Speakers

Amy Smith, Ph.D.
Chief Scientific Officer
Blank Slate Technologies

Mindy Price
Chief PACE Setter
Direct Effect Solutions
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.
CANCELLATION POLICY: Training registration fees are non-refundable.
For all inquiries regarding registrations, cancellations and refund requests, please contact the AAAE Training Department by email at training@aaae.org. All inquires must be submitted in writing. All cancellation requests for registrations received on or before Monday, May 12, 2025, are subject to a $150 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 Training@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 Training Department at 703-824-0500 Option 4 or email Training@aaae.org. By submitting a completed registration form, you acknowledge that you have read and understand the cancellation policy.
NOTE: Confirmation letters will be emailed to attendees within one business day of registration. If you have not received an email confirmation of your registration within 1 day of registering, and you enrolled at least two hours prior to the online event, please contact the AAAE Training Department at training@aaae.org. Please note failure to receive a confirmation letter before an event will not be grounds for a refund.
DUTY OF CARE: AAAE is committed to continuing to provide a safe and healthy environment for all event participants and staff. The responsibility for a safe and healthy event environment is shared among the event organizers, event venues, and event attendees. By registering for this event, you acknowledge and agree to AAAE's Duty of Care.
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
Civilian/Military Airport Connection (CMAC)
What is CMAC?
The Civilian/Military Airport Connection (CMAC) program helps separating military personnel and new veterans acclimate from managing military airfields to the dynamic and complex commercial-use airport environment.
There are four components to the program:
- Professional transition workshop
- One airport certification course - choice of ACE Airfield Operations or Certified Member (C.M.)
- One year membership in AAAE
- Airport job shadowing
Program Benefits:
- Ensure a smooth transition from military to civilian airport operations and management.
- Earn the Airport Certified Employee (ACE) Airfield Operations certification or Certified Member (C.M.), that will put you ahead of other candidates for potential jobs.
- Network with airport executives around the country through communities and events.
- Explore various airport positions through the shadow program.
- Receive discounts on other AAAE trainings and events.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Extend your reach and maximize exposure to a powerful audience by sponsoring the Industrial Aviation and Military Operations Workshop. From the opening networking reception, to breaks, lunches, and sessions, we have multiple tiers of sponsorships available. Your sponsorship will reinforce brand loyalty and show potential clients your company is a major player in the industry. Sponsorships are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so act now before these opportunities sell out!
Don’t let your competition get all the attention, become a sponsor today!
Available Opportunities
Items
Wi-Fi Sponsorship
Exclusive Sponsorship: $1,500.00
Events
Wednesday, March 27
Airbase Tour Transportation
Exclusive Sponsorship: $1,500.00
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Networking Reception
Exclusive Sponsorship: $2,500.00
5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Thursday, March 28
Continental Breakfast
Exclusive Sponsorship: $1,000.00
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
AM Refreshment Break
Exclusive Sponsorship: $750.00
10:00 AM - 10:15 AM
Luncheon
Exclusive Sponsorship: $1,500.00
12:15 PM - 1:15 PM
PM Refreshment Break
Exclusive Sponsorship: $750.00
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM
Friday, March 29
Continental Breakfast
Exclusive Sponsorship: $1,000.00
7:15 AM - 8:00 AM
Grab and Go Lunch
Exclusive Sponsorship: $1,000.00
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM