A Celebration of Legacy and Lift-Off: 40th Annual AMAC Airport Business Conference Recap | | Click the Above Image to Watch the AMAC Airport Business Conference 40th Anniversary Commemorative Video | | The 40th Annual AMAC Airport Business Conference took off in New Orleans with energy and purpose, celebrating 40 years of promoting equity in the aviation industry. Hosted by the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, the conference combined history, innovation and lively cultural energy into an engaging, multi-day event. Themed “Honoring Our Past, Forging Our Future,” this milestone gathering brought together over 1,500 aviation professionals, businesses, policymakers and emerging leaders to celebrate achievements and plan a bold future. Read the full recap. | | Click the Above Image to Watch the 40th Annual AMAC Airport Business Conference Recap Video | | Celebrating Excellence: 2025 AMAC Catalyst Awards Winners Announced | | |
Congratulations to the 2025 AMAC Catalyst Awards winners!
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Airport Design and Innovation Award: Smita Shah, Founder & CEO, SPAAN Tech, Inc.
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Airport Concessions Innovation Award: Nicholas Crews, Vice Chair, AMAC PAC Board of Directors; Managing Partner, Crews Hospitality
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Advocate of the Year Award: Bridget Biagas, First Vice Chair, AMAC Board of Directors; Vice President, Business Development, Hudson by Avolta
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Small Business Partner Award: Angela Booker, Principal, ISFAC, LLC
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Local Small Business Champion Award: Wendy & Winston Burns, Westwin
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Emerging Leaders Award: Lauryn Mangum Reed, Secretary, AMAC Board of Directors; Chair, AMAC Emerging Leaders Committee; Executive Vice President, TMG Hospitality USA
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Supplier Leadership Award: Shelia Hudson, Central Region Director, AMAC Board of Directors; Chair, AMAC Supplier Diversity Committee; Principal & CEO, Hudson and Associates
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Chapter of the Year Award: AMAC Los Angeles Chapter
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Hall of Fame Award: Nikki Tinsley Harland, At-Large Director, AMAC Board of Directors; Chief Operating Officer, Paradies Lagardère
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Airport Director of the Year William “Bill” Jennings Award: Jamie Rhee, Commissioner, Chicago Department of Aviation
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Airport of the Year Award: Denver International Airport
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President & CEO Award: Bridget Biagas, First Vice Chair, AMAC Board of Directors; Vice President, Business Development, Hudson by Avolta
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Charles “CJ” Johnson Award: Daniel Halpern, Member, AMAC PAC Board of Directors; President/CEO and Co-Founder, Jackmont Hospitality
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Chairman’s Award: Sunshine White, Chair, AMAC Foundation Board of Directors; Senior Director, Strategic Partnerships, Delaware North
| | Runway to Success: Taking Flight at the 40th Annual AMAC Airport Business Conference | | |
On Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at the 40th Annual AMAC Airport Business Conference in New Orleans, the Runway to Success Final Supplier Pitch Competition lifted off before a standing-room-only audience—spotlighting innovative, scalable products from minority- and women-owned businesses seeking to enter the airport concessions and retail marketplace.
More than just a pitch competition, Runway to Success is becoming a movement—an intentional platform where innovation meets opportunity. By elevating minority and women entrepreneurs at industry touchpoints, AMAC is rewriting the playbook on inclusive airport growth.
Read the full recap here.
| | Welcome Aboard: Introducing the New AMAC Houston Chapter | | |
We are proud to announce the launch of the AMAC Houston Chapter. This new Chapter provides tailored programming, professional connections, and a powerful platform in one of the nation’s top airport hubs. Become an AMAC National member and join the Houston Chapter today!
Meet the Chapter Officers
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President: Tamika Dickerson of HNTB
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Vice President of Finance: Raquel Olivier of Olivier, Inc.
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Vice President of Aviation: Michael Martin of Fronza & Francis
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Vice President of Public Relations: Thalia Andre-Noel of McKnight International
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Vice President of Corporate Relations: Rhonda Arnold of the Houston Airport System
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Vice President of Programs: Shanita Pettway of Fronza & Francis
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Vice President of Membership: Jerry Bustamante of RS&H
How to Get Involved
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Join Nationally – AMAC National membership is required to participate at the Chapter level and includes full member benefits.
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Opt Into Houston Chapter – Just $50/year, offering access to events, mentorship, committees, and local networking.
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Engage Actively – Attend orientation sessions (online and in-person), volunteer for committees, and participate in events.
| | Results of the 2025 AMAC Board of Directors Elections | | |
Check out the results of the 2025 AMAC Board of Directors Elections!
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Treasurer: William “Bill” Swift, Owner & President, Business Traveler Services, Inc.
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Secretary: Siobhan Higgins, Managing Director, Ten Thirty Media
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Northeast Regional Director: Indhira Figuereo Blaney, Senior Vice President, National Aviation / Market Leader, WSP USA
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Central Regional Director: Shelia Hudson, Principal & CEO, Hudson and Associates
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Northwest Regional Director: Jeannie Killebrew, President, Killebrew | Killebrew, Inc
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At-Large Director: Lauryn Mangum Reed, Executive Vice President, TMG Hospitality USA
| | She SOARS is Back — Elevate Your Aviation Journey with the Women Leading the Way! Registration and Sponsorship Opportunities Available | | |
We’re thrilled to invite you to the 2nd Annual She SOARS — Women in Aviation Summit, a dynamic gathering of trailblazers, changemakers, and future leaders shaping the future of aviation.
🗓 September 18–19, 2025
📍 Atlanta, GA
✈️ Hosted by Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport
🎟 REGISTER NOW: amac-org.com/wias-register
💼 BECOME A SPONSOR: amac-org.com/wias-sponsorship
Whether you're an aviation professional, student, executive, or advocate for women's empowerment #WIAS2025 is your runway to connection, inspiration, and action.
✈️ What to Expect:
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Powerful keynotes from leading women in aviation and aerospace
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Interactive workshops on leadership, innovation, and access
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Career networking & mentorship opportunities
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Industry panels featuring top voices from airlines, airports, and aviation tech
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Emerging professional development
🤝 Become a Sponsor:
Align your brand with equity, excellence, and innovation in aviation. Sponsorship packages offer:
- Premier brand visibility
- Exclusive engagement opportunities with attendees
- Recognition in event materials and programming
- A direct role in supporting women in aviation
Upcoming Deadlines:
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Registration Cancellation/Transfer Ends: Wednesday, August 18
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AMAC Discounted Room Block Hotel Booking Closes: Tuesday, August 26 (Before 6:00 PM ET)
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Sponsorship Purchase Ends: Monday, September 1
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Online Registration Ends: Wednesday, September 10
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Onsite Registration Begins: Thursday, September 18
Don't miss your chance to support the movement and take flight with us.
| | AMAC National Office Welcomes Tia Perry to the Team | | |
Please join us in welcoming the newest member to the AMAC National Office team! Tia Perry serves as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships & Membership at AMAC, where she leads the Membership and Sponsorship teams. With nearly two decades of experience in the construction and transportation association industries, she is dedicated to advancing engagement strategies and building impactful partnerships that drive organizational growth.
An accomplished and award-winning association executive, Tia has more than 18 years of success in membership growth, strategic partnerships, and business development across the nonprofit and association sectors. She combines vision, execution, and heart in every initiative she leads.
Most recently, Tia was Executive Director of AEC Unites, where she oversaw the launch of a national nonprofit dedicated to creating intentional opportunities for Black talent and Black-owned businesses in the architecture, engineering, and construction industry. Read Tia's full bio.
| | AMAC Members: Post RFPS/Jobs to the AMAC Opportunity Center | | |
Featured Jobs & Bids
View these Opportunities and More in the AMAC Opportunity Center!
| | AMAC Los Angeles Chapter Economic Inclusion Mixer | | |
The AMAC Los Angeles Chapter's Economic Inclusion Mixer hosted in May was a dynamic celebration of National Small Business Week — and a powerful reminder that when we come together with intention, we create real pathways for opportunity.
Three Great Organizations, One Collaborative Effort — that simple phrase carries deep meaning. This event wasn’t just a mixer; it was a testament to the power of collaboration as our most valuable currency in advancing equity, access, and inclusion.
Hosted in partnership with LAX COASTAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, NAMC SoCal, and AMAC LA, the evening was filled with high-energy networking, promising teaming opportunities, and impactful conversations about building a more inclusive business ecosystem.
AMAC Los Angeles Chapter President, Martha Valenzuela, proudly represented the Chapter and connected with small businesses and contractors who are actively seeking creative and innovative ways to bring new opportunities to AMAC members.
The AMAC Los Angeles Chapter believes in breaking down barriers and building up relationships — and last night was a reflection of that mission in action. Thank you to all who joined us and made the evening one to remember!
Top right photo from left to right: Mydria Clark from HNTB and Martha Valenzuela, AMAC Los Angeles Chapter President.
Bottom photo from left to right: Kunal G. Shah, President & CEO of PBS Engineering, Inc., James Long, from HNTB, Martha Valenzuela, AMAC Los Angeles President, Chad Maender, President & CEO of the LAX Coastal Chamber of Commerce, Traci Watson, President of NAMC SoCal and Rakiyah LeBeau, Board Member of NAMC SoCal.
| | AMAC Atlanta Chapter Skyline Soirée | | The AMAC Atlanta Chapter hosted a successful Member Mixer in May for an evening of connection and collaboration. Attendees had the opportunity to network, share industry insights, and learn more about the chapter’s ongoing initiatives while overlooking the Porsche race track. The event featured light refreshments, engaging conversations and a strong sense of community, reinforcing AMAC’s mission to advancing the full participation of minorities and women in employment and contracting opportunities throughout the aviation and aerospace industries. | | AMAC Baltimore-Washington Chapter: Springs Brings Opportunity | | The AMAC Baltimore-Washington Chapter hosted its Quarterly Membership Meeting in May, featuring an exclusive Meet and Greet with Shannetta Griffin, Executive Director and CEO of the Maryland Aviation Administration (MAA) at BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport. The event brought together industry professionals, AMAC members, and community leaders for an engaging evening of dialogue and connection. Attendees had the unique opportunity to hear directly from Ms. Griffin about her vision for the future of aviation and current BWI priorities. Sponsored by HMSHost by Avolta, McKnight International and Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority. | | AMAC Detroit Chapter 2nd Annual Golf Outing | | The AMAC Detroit Chapter had a fantastic day on the green during their recent Golf Outing! The energy, commitment and community spirit were sky-high. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who came out to support—whether you played, volunteered or sponsored. Your presence helped make the day a huge success and supports AMAC's mission to expand opportunities for women and minorities in aviation and aerospace. From early tee-offs to networking at the clubhouse, the event created memories and connections that go beyond the fairway. | | AMAC Baltimore-Washington Chapter: Meet the New MAA Director Shannetta Griffin | | In July, the AMAC Baltimore-Washington Chapter and COMTO Maryland hosted Shannetta Griffin, Executive Director and CEO of the Maryland Aviation Administration (MAA) at BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport, for an inspiring conversation on leadership, perseverance and innovation in aviation. From connecting prime contractors to emerging firms, we’re building bridges to opportunities in transportation. Special thanks to the partners, speakers and sponsors for making this transformative event possible. Sponsored by Jacobs, Parsons Corporation and Hensel Phelps. | | Areas to Acquire Travel Hospitality Services Delaware North’s Airport Hospitality Division in the U.S. | | |
Areas, a global leader in travel dining and retail, has reached an agreement with Delaware North to acquire its United States-based airport food, beverage, and retail business, Travel Hospitality Services (THS). The transaction is subject to regulatory approval in the U.S. and other customary closing conditions.
As part of the agreement, Areas will take over the management of 237 THS locations across 22 U.S. airports, supported by a team of 4,000 employees and generating over $500 million in annual revenue.
This acquisition marks a major milestone in Areas’ growth strategy in the U.S. With the integration of THS, Areas will increase its presence in the country and become a leading travel hospitality operator in the U.S. Upon the closing of the transaction, the combined company will operate a total of 369 locations in 27 airports and 12 travel plazas, and strengthen its workforce in the U.S. with a team of over 6,000 people.
On a global scale, Areas will now generate over $3 billion in annual revenue, with 2,200 points of sale and 24,000 employees across 11 countries.
| | Michael J. McMurray Appointed Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Aviation | | |
Mayor Brandon Johnson appointed Michael J. McMurray as Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Aviation.
McMurray brings over 25 years of experience in both the private and public sectors. His deep understanding and background in transportation, infrastructure, procurement, and law will be crucial in continuing to position Chicago’s airports as a world-class destination for business and tourism.
McMurray is committed to building upon the strong foundation established at Chicago’s airports while bringing a fresh perspective to ensure that O'Hare and Midway continue to serve as an international model of excellence and innovation.
| | Richard Schneider of Areas USA Awarded the prestigious Silver Plate Award by IFMA The Food Away from Home Association | | Richard Schneider, Chief Development Officer at Areas, United States, has been awarded the prestigious Silver Plate Award by IFMA, the Food Away from Home Association. This recognition highlights Richard’s career and his commitment to excellence in the food service industry. The award was presented last Friday during the 71st Annual Gold & Silver Plate Awards Celebration at Chicago’s Union Station. Congratulations, Richard, on this huge achievement! | | New Travel Essentials Retail Locations Featuring Products From New York Businesses Announced for New Terminal One at John F. Kennedy International Airport | | The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, the New Terminal One (NTO), and Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) Airports announced that three graduates of the Port Authority’s Institute of Concessions (IOC) will join WHSmith North America on a team of joint-venture partners to deliver best-in-class travel essentials at John F. Kennedy International Airport’s New Terminal One. The three New York-based firms will contribute products and investment through an incubator program led by joint-venture partner Love From USA to offer best-in-class merchandise from global, national, and local brands promoting a unique New York sense of place. | | Populous Acquires Fentress Architects, Expanding Global Aviation Portfolio | | Populous, the world-renowned design firm specializing in sport and entertainment venues, announced the acquisition of Denver-based Fentress Architects, a global leader in iconic aviation projects and prominent public buildings, including convention centers, museums and government facilities. | | Louis Armstrong Airport Upgrades Guest Pass Program | | The Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) has upgraded its Indulge MSY Guest Pass program, making it easier for non-ticketed guests to access areas beyond the security checkpoint. Eligible guests can now sign up online or use an in-terminal kiosk and get a pass within minutes. | | Jacobs Takes Flight as Engineering News-Record No. 1 Aviation Firm | | Jacobs is officially Engineering News-Record’s top-ranked aviation firm worldwide! From AI-powered terminals to net-zero airports, our projects are shaping the future of flight. | | Krystel Davis was named Deputy General Manager of Administration & People Strategy for Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. | | | Jeff Yablun transitioned from CEO of OTG to Senior Advisor to the OTG Board and Company. | | | Diana Léon Brown was named Chief of Staff for Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. | | | Honorable Don Cravins, Jr., former Under Secretary of Commerce for the Minority Business Development Agency, as Interim CEO of the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC). | | | Recap: AMAC Foundation Project LIFT | | The AMAC Foundation Project LIFT (Leaders Inspiring Future Talent) program introduces students to lesser-known fields of aviation, including aircraft maintenance, airport development, architecture, and business operations. On June 28, 2025, the AMAC Foundation hosted over 100 high school students from across Baton Rouge and New Orleans at the gates and seats of the abandoned southern terminal of Louis Armstrong International Airport, where the lecture halls and desks became a venue for learning during the 40th Annual AMAC Airport Business Conference. A massive shout-out to AMAC Foundation Board Member Cleve Dunn, Jr., for spearheading these efforts to open young people's minds to the full range of aviation opportunities available to them! | | Over 100 Students From Louisiana Get Hands-on Inspiration to Consider Careers in Aviation | | |
Over 100 high school students from Baton Rouge and New Orleans transformed the old Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport terminal into a classroom, discovering careers beyond just piloting and flight attending. Thanks to the AMAC Foundation Project LIFT program and leaders like Kevin Dolliole, Captain Barrington Irving, and AMAC Foundation Board Member Cleve Dunn, Jr., students explored hands-on aviation fields—from aircraft maintenance to airport design—and learned about high-paying, high-demand jobs in a growing industry.
Read the full article in The Advocate.
| | Recap: AMAC Foundation Golf Experience | | |
On June 29, 2025, the AMAC Foundation brought the heat — and the all-white style — to Five O Fore Golf for an unforgettable afternoon of fun, philanthropy, and New Orleans flair. Guests teed off in state-of-the-art golf entertainment bays featuring Trackman Golf Simulator technology, enjoyed premium hors d’oeuvres and libations, and mingled to the sounds of live entertainment.
The All-White Attire Day Party set the perfect tone for “partying with a purpose,” with raffle prizes adding to the excitement and big screens delivering the ultimate sports-viewing experience. From the electric NOLA energy to the spirited camaraderie, the AMAC Foundation Golf Experience proved to be the freshest way to have fun in The 504 — all while raising donations for scholarships.
| | Recap: AMAC Foundation Celebrating Women in Aviation & Scholarship Awards Breakfast | | |
On July 1, 2025, The Original Pinettes Brass Band, a New Orleans all-female brass band, greeted attendees with exhilarating flair at the AMAC Foundation Celebrating Women in Aviation & Scholarship Awards Breakfast. This annual event, honoring women who have paved the way for future generations in aviation, was opened by Eboni Wimbush, President & CEO, AMAC. The event was led by Sunshine White, Chair, AMAC Foundation Board of Directors/Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships, Delaware North. Speakers and presenters included industry leaders: Nicholas Crews, Vice Chair, AMAC PAC Board of Directors/Managing Partner & CEO, Crews Hospitality; Erin Burns, Director of Communications, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport; Kevin Dolliole, Director of Aviation, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport; Jil Jordan Greene, Chief Human Resources Officer, Paradies Lagardère; Tosin Kasali, Vice President, Business Development for HMSHost by Avolta; George Mboya, Interim CEO & Chief Financial Officer, SSP America; Dwayne Norris, Director, AMAC Foundation Board of Directors/Supplier Diversity Manager, Supply Chain Management, Enterprise Mobility; and Dwight Pullen, Senior Vice President, Global Aviation Leader, AECOM.
With over 400 attendees, the event highlighted the career achievements of all-star women in aviation. Attendees heard the personal and professional stories and experiences of the dynamic women honored in 2025 for their significant contributions to the aviation industry. On this inspiring morning, the AMAC Foundation also honored rising scholars, supporting the next generation of leaders in our industry. The event was a powerful celebration of women, leadership, inspiration, and the future of aviation, wrapped in the sense of place and spirit brought by New Orleans.
| | WHSmith North America Donates $52,500 Retail Innovation Scholarship to the AMAC Foundation | | |
We are grateful to AMAC Corporate Partner, WHSmith North America, for its generous support of the AMAC Foundation through its multi-year Retail Innovation Scholarship and Paid Internship worth $52,500 presented during the AMAC Foundation Celebrating Women in Aviation & Scholarship Awards Breakfast at the 40th Annual AMAC Airport Business Conference!
WHSmith North America's commitment to fostering innovation in the travel retail space helps us empower the next generation of leaders and drive meaningful change in our industry. Partnerships like this make it possible for us to expand our reach, create opportunities, and inspire progress. Thank you for investing in a brighter, more innovative future!
| | Recap: AMAC PAC Power Breakfast | | |
On June 30, 2025, the AMAC PAC Power Breakfast gathered advocates and industry leaders for a crucial morning of engagement and empowerment. The event—designed to fuel influence and strengthen our collective voice—focused on advancing economic access in airport contracting and workforce development.
Congressman Troy A. Carter (D-LA-2) headlined the morning as the featured guest speaker. Serving Louisiana’s 2nd Congressional District—including New Orleans and its surrounding communities—he brought both regional insight and federal experience to the discussion. Congressman Carter is known for his deep work on infrastructure and homeland security, and his leadership in championing equitable economic development and workforce inclusion.
Attendees engaged in meaningful dialogue, hearing firsthand how the AMAC PAC strategically supports federal candidates, PACs and congressional caucuses committed to creating more equitable access in the airport industry. The atmosphere was energized with networking, calls to action, and a unified commitment: your voice matters, and together we can shape the future of our industry.
| | BMO Celebrating Women Grant Program | | The BMO Women in Business Grant is now officially open for applications! This grant is designed to support entrepreneurs who meet the eligibility criteria. Applications are open now through August 19, 2025 at 8:00 pm ET. APPLY HERE | | Commemorating 20 Years of Solution-Oriented Research from the Airport Cooperative Research Program | | |
The fast-paced and ever-changing airport industry presents its own unique set of challenges, which require responsive research offering practical solutions. For 20 years, the Airport Cooperative Research Program (ACRP) has stood as a trusted partner to airport professionals nationwide, offering unbiased, free research-based solutions. Since its establishment in 2005 by an Act of Congress, ACRP has overseen more than $270 million in funding for more than 700 research projects.
This year, ACRP is celebrating its 20th anniversary, culminating in a special online celebration on September 26, 2025, to commemorate the day it was established. Airport practitioners from across the country will come together to share stories and participate in a virtual peer event.
Whether you're a seasoned airport practitioner or just beginning your career in the industry, there are many ways to participate in ACRP. Visit the ACRP website to learn how your airport could enhance operational efficiency, improve safety and security, meet environmental goals, and plan strategically for growth. Join ACRP as it continues to serve as a vital resource to airports, linking research to practice, ideas to action, and professionals to each other.
| | National Forum for Black Public Administrators (NFBPA) Mentor Program - Opportunities for AMAC Members | | |
Are you ready to take your career in public service to the next level? The National Forum for Black Public Administrators (NFBPA) Mentor Program is now accepting applications for its upcoming cohort!
This nationally recognized program connects rising leaders with seasoned executives, innovators, and changemakers in the field of public administration. Whether you're navigating a career transition, preparing for a leadership role, or looking to expand your professional influence, this is a valuable opportunity to invest in your growth.
Participants will gain:
- One-on-one mentorship with experienced public sector professionals
- Personalized career coaching and leadership development
- Access to NFBPA’s national network of professionals
- Support in navigating your career path with clarity and purpose
Click here to access the application and learn more about the program.
| | Celebrating Lives and Legacies of Industry Leaders We Have Lost | | |
Passing of Henry L. Thompson, Director of Aviation for the City of Fresno
Fresno City Manager Georgeanne White announced that the city's Director of Aviation has passed away.
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Passing of Pamela Prince-Eason, President & CEO of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC)
As President & CEO of WBENC, she was a force for good through championing women-owned and small business entrepreneurs and driving impact across sectors.
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Passing of Anthony ‘Tony’ Robinson, Former President of the Minority Business Enterprise Education and Legal Defense Fund (MBELDEF)
“Tony” W. Robinson, civil rights attorney and champion for minority businesses, led the MBELDEF for four decades.
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