September 11, 2024

 

The Aerospace Center for Excellence Welcomes New CFO

LAKELAND, FL: The Aerospace Center for Excellence (ACE) congratulates Tracy Neal on her recent retirement from the organization that she served for 14 years. During her tenure, Neal demonstrated commitment to the organization’s sustainability. Her financial acumen ensured that ACE is well-positioned for continued growth and prosperity. Gene Conrad, President and CEO of SUN ‘n FUN and ACE, stated, “We thank Tracy for her many years of dedicated service to the Aerospace Center for Excellence and SUN 'n FUN."

To ensure a seamless succession, the Aerospace Center for Excellence is elated to announce that Julie Ehnle has been named the organization’s Chief Financial Officer, effective August 26, 2024.


Ehnle brings to the Aerospace Center of Excellence more than 20 years of experience in finance, leadership, and operations. Most recently, Ehnle served as the Senior Accountant, Finance Director, and Assistant Director of Operations at The Schools of McKeel Academy for twelve years. During her tenure at McKeel, she helped the team expand the downtown school by 35,000 square feet resulting in 230 additional students. She oversaw the safe schools and guardian initiative; under her purview, revenues increased from $18.5M to $36M. In addition, she oversaw opening their own bus garage and a $7M athletic complex build out.


Ehnle’s extensive operational oversight has included supervision of accounting, payroll, Information Technology, Human Resources, facilities, transportation, and food service departments. Her experience in accounting and auditing includes collaborative efforts with Information Technology to streamline systems for improved fiscal management. 


Gene Conrad, President and CEO of SUN ‘n FUN and ACE, stated, “We are excited to have Julie join the ACE team. Her experience in financial and organizational management, as well as various leadership roles, will help us accelerate our mission. We all look forward to the innovations that Julie will bring to our team.”


Eric Crump, Vice President and COO of Aerospace Center for Excellence, shared, “Julie brings an incredible amount of experience in education and a tremendous energy. We are excited about how her wealth of experience will further propel our mission and our impact."


When asked about her thoughts on this new opportunity, Ehnle stated, “I am honored to join the ACE team. They’ve been a pillar in the community. I look forward to contributing my experience to further ACE’s mission and to help drive continued growth and innovation. Working alongside such a talented team is an incredible opportunity, and I am excited for all we can accomplish together.”

ACEedu.org

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About Aerospace Center for Excellence, Inc.

The Aerospace Center for Excellence (ACE), a 501(c)(3) non-profit, has emerged as a nationally recognized leader in STEM-related and aerospace education through its various learning centers, outreach programs, summer camps and scholarships aimed at preparing students for tomorrow’s aerospace challenges. Located on the SUN ‘n FUN Expo Campus in Lakeland, Florida, the organization is known for its annual SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo fundraising event as well as the Florida Air Museum, which is Florida’s Official Aviation Museum and Education Center. ACE is the world’s leader in producing licensed teenage private pilots and delivers youth programs that engage over 50,000 students a year. For more information, ACEedu.org.