Merriam Webster’s Dictionary defines a leader as someone who “guides by going in advance” or “one who will direct on a course or in a direction.” As the third annual Ground Support Leader of the Year award presentation and luncheon draws near, nominees for the leadership award are being reviewed and carefully selected. On March 21, one deserving industry leader will join the ranks of those who have been honored in the past for their contributions, efforts in the industry and courage to guide others by pioneering uncharted territory.
For those who have led their company or employees to excellence despite the airline industry slump, their efforts are greatly appreciated by all ground support workers. Candidates must meet three basic requirements to be considered for the award. First, the individual or company must be involved in the industry for at least 10 years. Second, he or she must be active in industry or non-industry initiatives and organizations and finally the candidates must demonstrate achievements for his or her company or the industry.
Last year’s winner, Tim Wix, general manager of GSE of Delta Airlines, was selected due to his management skills and his active membership in the National Association of Fleet Administrators. At Delta, Wix is responsible for GSE asset management, compliance and quality assurance, engineering, maintenance programs and contracts and technical publications. He is a long-time member of the industry and began his career at Delta 20 years ago.
The leadership award luncheon is a great opportunity for industry members to mix and mingle and honor those who have led the industry to great new heights. The 2007 presentation will take place March 21, from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $ 40 per person or $350 per table of 10.
In addition to the Ground Support Leader of the Year presentation, attendees of the Aviation Industry Expo will experience a packed exhibit hall featuring more than 450 exhibitors. Business sessions covering topics ranging from “Doing Business with the Government” to “The Future For Fueling” will enlighten even the most seasoned industry veterans. The expo also aims to educate visitors on how to improve the reliability, efficiency and cost effectiveness of their daily operations. New product showcases and demonstrations of the latest equipment and processes provide valuable hands-on experience with featured tools and materials.
As the nation’s only ground support expo, the event is not one to be missed. Sigurdur Arnarson, general manager of Chico Aviation described the event as “a conference that anyone associated with aviation should attend.” In a world of everchanging technology and increased safety measures, every ground support technician needs to keep abreast of the latest developments in the industry. With more than 50,000 feet dedicated exclusively to ground support, AIE is the answer.
“No one in aviation should miss this show or the panel discussions,” Charlie Dixon, GSE rework commodity manager for the US NAVY said.
