79th Annual SWAAAE Summer Conference program
Saturday, July 19
12:00 pm to 3:30 pm
Patio Room
Board of Directors Meeting + Lunch
4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Patio Room
Foundation Board of Directors Meeting
6:30 pm to 8:30 pm
Muldoon's Irish Pub
Board of Directors and Conference Committee Dinner (By Invitation Only)
Muldoon's Irish Pub: 202 Newport Center Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Sunday, July 20
9:00 am to 4:00 pm
Patio Room
Leadership Development Workshop - Elevate your Career: Create an Individual Development Plan (IDP) for Career Success (Separate Registration Required)
This workshop is tailored to help seasoned professionals and industry newcomers create an Individual Development Plan (IDP) to guide their career path, fostering personal and professional growth. Learn more about this workshop here.11:00 am to 3:00 pm
Tijeras Creek Golf Club
Todd McNamee Past President's Golf Tournament (Separate Registration Required)
Registration required via the conference registration form (limited club rentals available first come, first served). Guests and non-members not planning to attend the full conference are welcome to register!
Check in: 10:00 am
Shotgun start: 11:00 am
Tijeras Creek Golf Club: 29082 Tijeras Crk, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Lido Room
Sip and Paint (Separate Registration Required)
Join us for a fun and relaxing afternoon of creativity at our Sip & Paint! Whether you're a seasoned artist or just looking to try something new, this experience is perfect for all skill levels. Your registration includes one complimentary beverage, paint session led by an experienced instructor, and all painting materials.
2:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Plaza Arbor
Exhibitor Set-Up
2:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Plaza Arbor
Registration Open
Stop by registration to pick up your name badge and conference materials. Conference information will be accessible via the conference app.
4:30 pm
Oasis Court
Mentor/Ambassador and First Time Attendee Meetup
Meet your paired mentor prior to the meet and greet event.
5:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Oasis Court
Michael A. Shutt YoPro, New Attendee & Mentor Meet and Greet
First time attendees, new SWAAAE members and young professionals are welcome and encouraged to attend to meet and network with others before the conference officially kicks off.
6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Oasis Court
Welcome Reception
Kick off the conference at our welcome reception, a networking event designed to set the tone for a memorable few days in southern California. Join fellow attendees for an evening of connection, live music, entertainment, appetizers and beverages outside at the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach.
Dress code: casual.
8:00 pm to 9:30 pm
Pacific Patio Firepit
After Hours Networking Event
Monday, July 21
7:00 am to 8:00 am
Morning Mavericks - Walk
7:30 am to 3:00 pm
Plaza Arbor
Registration
7:30 am to 9:00 am
Plaza Ballroom III + Plaza Arbor
Hot Breakfast with Exhibitors – Learning/Networking Opportunity
7:30 am to 4:30 pm
Plaza Ballroom III
Headshot Lounge
8:30 am to 9:00 am
Plaza Ballroom I-II
Conference Opening Ceremonies
Conference Chair: Komal Kumar, Assistant Airport Director, John Wayne Airport
SWAAAE President: Courtney Johnson, C.M., C.A.E., Director of Airports, County of San Luis Obispo
AAAE Leadership
9:00 am to 10:15 am
Plaza Ballroom I-II
Keynote Session: Martha Blanding Moderated by Tim O'Day
Groundbreaking Magic, A Black Woman's Journey Through the Happiest Place on Earth
Disneyland, Walt Disney’s original theme park, opened in Orange County on July 17, 1955. Since then, over 650 million guests and Cast Members from around the world have visited and worked at “The Happiest Place on Earth.” One person who has positively impacted the experiences of many is Martha Blanding, the first Black American to retire after 50 years of service with The Walt Disney Company. Beginning as the first Black tour guide at Disneyland while a college student, Martha was later promoted to management, breaking many barriers while overseeing multi-million-dollar merchandise-based special events featuring globally acclaimed artists, authors, and celebrities. These included Thomas Kincade, Mickey Mantle, Kurt Russell, Annette Funicello, James Earl Jones, Marie Osmond, and Julie Andrews. After her retirement in 2022, Martha was named a Disney Legend in 2024, alongside Harrison Ford, Jamie Leigh Curtis, Miley Cyrus, Angela Bassett, and other notables.
Joining Martha to help share her inspirational story is Tim O’Day, an award-winning public relations executive, best-selling author, successful event producer, and recognized Disney historian. Tim's creative spark led to the installation of an Olympic-sized lap pool down Main Street USA at Disneyland for U.S. Olympian swimmers, procuring a Disneyland star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, placing “Dumbo” in the Smithsonian, and facilitating the retirement of the pardoned White House Thanksgiving turkeys to the Disney Parks (among the most successful PR stunts in Disney history). In addition to co-authoring Martha’s groundbreaking book “Groundbreaking Magic,” he is also the co-author of the best-selling coffee-table book “A Portrait of Walt Disney World: 50 Years of The Most Magical Place on Earth,” the most comprehensive history of the renowned resort destination. Tim currently appears on the Disney+ series “Behind the Attraction.”
10:15 am to 11:00 am
Plaza Arbor
Break with Exhibitors + OC Animal Allies
11:00 am to 12:00 pm
Plaza Ballroom I-II
SWAAAE General Membership Meeting + Board of Directors Elections
12:00 pm to 1:30 pm
Lunch on your own
12:00 pm to 1:30 pm
Student/YoPro Lunch
Invitations to participate in this lunch will be sent via email and a ticket will be required to attend. We look forward to connecting student attendees with industry YoPros in an intimate and meaningful way over lunch!
1:30 pm to 2:15 pm
Plaza Ballroom I-II
General Session A: Navigating the Future of the National Airspace System
The National Airspace System (NAS) is at a pivotal moment, facing the challenges of an aging air traffic control infrastructure and the opportunities presented by emerging technologies and evolving user needs. This panel convenes a cross section of industry leaders to examine the current state of the NAS and the key forces shaping its future. Discussion topics include the integration of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), the rise of commercial space operations, modernization of air traffic management, system capacity concerns, and the anticipated arrival of advanced air mobility (AAM). Attendees will gain insights into how these changes are influencing airport operations, infrastructure planning, and aviation safety and what steps airport professionals can take today to position themselves for long-term success in a rapidly evolving airspace system.
2:15 pm to 3:00 pm
Plaza Arbor
Break with Exhibitors – Learning/Networking Opportunity/Attendee Giveaways
3:00 pm to 4:15 pm
Plaza Ballroom I-II
General Session B: JWA Noise & Access Program Overview and Land Use Encroachment
John Wayne Airport will present the most stringent noise and access program in the U.S. Nearly every community points to JWA as an example of what they would like, so it will be a great presentation to truly understand and be fully informed on this program. We will then change gears and discuss the land use encroachment many airports are experiencing that put in jeopardy their viability to continue operating an efficient and effective airport. Sacramento County Aviation Department will present how they have protected their airports from encroachment and Las Vegas may (not confirmed) discuss the issues they continue to face with land use around Harry Reid International Airport.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the JWA Noise & Access Program and better discuss with their communities why that is not an option available to most other airports
- Understand the critical issues associated with land use encroachment around airports
- Discuss with their airport management how to potentially protect from land use encroachment
Moderator: Gene Reindel, Vice President, HMMH
4:15 pm to 5:00 pm
Patio Room
Corporate Membership Meeting
This meeting is open to all SWAAAE Corporate members to attend.
6:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Transportation to Splitsville
7:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Splitsville Downtown Disney
Monday Night Networking Event
Network and mingle while enjoying heavy appetizers and craft cocktails, beer, and wine at downtown Disney's luxury bowling alley. Not a bowler? No problem! Between cornhole, shuffleboard, and a selfie photobooth, you will have the opportunity to to relax, engage, and build meaningful professional relationships in a fun, sophisticated setting.
Roundtrip transportation will be provided from the conference hotel.
Dress code: Casual.
Parking: The first hour of parking is $10 in the Simba lot. After an hour, complimentary self parking is available for up to 5 hours with validation.
Splitsville Downtown Disney: 1530 S. Disneyland Dr., Anaheim, CA 92802
9:30 pm to 10:30 pm
Pacific Patio Firepit
After Hours Networking
Tuesday, July 22
7:00 am to 8:00 am
Morning Mavericks - Yoga
7:30 am to 3:00 pm
Plaza Arbor
Registration
7:45 am to 8:45 am
Plaza Ballroom III + Plaza Arbor
Hot Breakfast with Exhibitors – Learning/Networking Opportunity
8:45 am to 10:00 am
Plaza Ballroom I
Session C1: Part 139: The Very Edge of Certification
This session will provide an overview of: Join us for panel discussion on the challenges Airports face when the market necessitates a shift in Part 139 Certification. This dynamic discussion will explore Part 139 Certification, Limited Certificates, and when to inactivate. We will explore innovative strategies Airports have used to maintain or shift their Part 139 status.Learning Objectives:
Understand the different types of FAA Part 139 Certification. Establish a metric for when to evaluate their current Part 139 status. When and how to communicate certification change to your governing body. Understand what the implications for staffing, training, and funding are for the different certifications.
Moderator: Katherine Bales, C.M., CAE, MBA Project Management, Assistant Airport Manager, Napa County Airport
Speakers:Richard Steel, AAAE CM, ASC, MS Commercial Aviation, Director of Operations, John Wayne Airport – Orange County (SNA)
Ashley Helms, Deputy Public Works Director-Airport Division, Inyo County
Andrew Solsvig, A.A.E., MBA, Airport Manager, City of Redding
Russell Milburn, C.M., ACE, AMF, Assistant Director of Airports- Operations, Contra Costa County Airports
Plaza Ballroom II
Session C2: Respecting The Disconnect: Bridging Work-Life Expectations Across Generations
The session will discuss the multiple generation currently in the workforce, for the first time in history there are five generations working together in workforce. Younger generations today are seeking a more work-life balance, prioritizing personal life over work (work to live) and how it may conflict with previous generation work culture (live to work). As the newer generation begins to grow in the work force, older generation must also learn how to navigate their demands.
We will address the obstacles and/or benefit each generation has experience when working with other generation workforce. Compare the younger generation and older generations work-life demand, and how and why it has changed.
Learning Objectives
Understand the needs and desire of newer generations beyond general stereotypes.
Moderator: Welton Trang, C.M., Airport Operations Officer, John Wayne Airport
Speakers:
Crystal J. Garcia, E.I.T., Business Development Manager, C&S Companies
Farah Avila, Delta Air Lines Station Manager, Delta Air Lines
Josh Wussick, Senior Project Manager, Texas Aviation Lead
Robert Lowe, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, Chief People and Culture Officer, Los Angeles World Airport
10:00 am to 10:45 am
Plaza Arbor
Break with Exhibitors – Learning/Networking Opportunity/Attendee Giveaways
10:45 am to 12:00 pm
Plaza Ballroom I
Session D1: Aviation Procurement Unlocked: Mastering RFPs & RFQ
This session aims to provide valuable insights for both aviation executives and contractors/consultants. It covers effective strategies for airport owners to write clear and impactful RFQs and RFPs, emphasizing the importance of transparency, clarity, and well-defined project objectives. Additionally, it offers guidance for contractors/consultants on crafting compelling submittals, highlighting the significance of tailoring responses, showcasing relevant experience, and avoiding common pitfalls. The presentation concludes with best practices for both parties, ensuring a streamlined and efficient procurement process.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify key components of a well-structured RFQ/RFP that clearly communicates project goals, expectations, and evaluation criteria.
- Apply strategies to improve transparency and clarity in solicitation documents to minimize confusion and reduce risk.
- Recognize common pitfalls in both RFQ/RFP development and proposal responses—and understand how to avoid them.
- Develop more effective submittals by tailoring content to the specific needs of airport owners and procurement objectives.
- Showcase relevant experience and qualifications in a way that aligns with the priorities stated in the solicitation.
- Implement best practices for streamlining the procurement process, improving evaluation efficiency, and fostering better outcomes for all parties.
Moderator: Michael Hill, LEED AP, DBIA, CPC, Project Director, Sundt Construction
Speakers:
Candace Huff, C.M., P.E., Deputy Aviation Director, Sky Harbor
Danielle Intorf, Business Development Representative, Sundt Construction
Mike Smejkal, PE (IL, AZ), AAE, ENV SP, Principal - Mountain Region Airport Infrastructure Lead, Stantec
Plaza Ballroom II
Session D2: Authentic, Relatable, and Resilient – Building Your Best Workforce
Buckle up for” Real-ish with Sheneice”, a live, talk-show-style session that’s bringing high-flying energy and grounded wisdom to the world of aviation workforce development. Through candid conversations, relatable storytelling, and unfiltered dialogue with aviation changemakers, this session lifts the veil on how airports are navigating turbulence to build a workforce that's authentic, resilient, and ready for takeoff.
This isn’t your typical panel. It’s a bold, interactive experience where industry leaders share the real stories behind their strategies—how they’re cultivating workplaces that reflect human realities, adapt to disruption, and stay mission-ready. Whether you’re in HR, operations, leadership, or frontline work, come ready to laugh, learn, and leave with tools to help your team soar.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify key workforce challenges airports are facing today and the innovative strategies being used to address them.
- Apply techniques that encourage authenticity, relatability, and emotional resilience in their own airport teams.
- Evaluate how workforce development efforts can align with broader airport goals such as DEI, safety, and operational excellence.
Moderator: Sheneice Michelle Hughes, USAP, C.M., Deputy Director, Finance, People & Culture, Dallas Love Field Airport
Speakers:
Jacob Haik, Airport Manager, Van Nuys Airport
Monique Jackson, PMP, MBA, CEO & Founder, L&F Project Management
Noel Watts, Employee Engagement Specialist, Dallas Love Field
Anita Cobb, MBA, Market Leader – Aviation Civic Strategies, Mead & Hunt, Inc
Christina Watkins, HireLAX Apprenticeship Readiness Program Administrator, Parsons
Ravi H. Singh, Vice President, Growth & Development, PBS Engineers
12:00 am to 1:30 pm
Lunch on your own
1:30 pm to 2:45 pm
Plaza Ballroom I
Session E1: ALP Decoded: Navigating the Levels of Airport Layout Plan Updates
Airport Layout Plans (ALPs) are the blueprint for airport development—but knowing when and how to update them can be confusing. Is a pen-and-ink revision enough, or does your project require a full formal update? How do you avoid surprises during FAA review? In this session, we'll break down the different levels of ALP updates, explain how to align your planning with FAA expectations, and provide practical tips for navigating the process efficiently. Whether you're dealing with a minor geometry tweak or a major capital improvement, understanding the right update path can save you time, money, and frustration.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the different types of ALP updates and when each is appropriate.
- Understand FAA requirements and how to coordinate updates with your ADO or regional office.
- Learn the role of ALPs in airport development, grant funding, and compliance.
- Walk through real examples of pen-and-ink revisions vs. full ALP updates.
- Get tips for successful documentation and communication to streamline the FAA review process.
Plaza Ballroom II
Session E2: Energy Forecasting in a Transitional Age
Airports identifying or transitioning their energy infrastructure to be more self-sufficient, resilient, and/or less carbon intensive.Learning Objectives:
- Develop an action plan to move forward with their energy transition goals.
- Understand the challenges and opportunities of transitioning an airport’s energy infrastructure.
Moderator: Loup-Giang Nguyen, Aviation Planner, WSP
Speakers:
Auden Kaehler, Senior Vice President, Manager, Advisory Services, U.S., WSP
Knut H Herrmann, Energy Manager, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
2:45 pm to 3:30 pm
Plaza Arbor
Break
3:30 pm to 4:45 pm
Plaza Ballroom I
Session F1: Reversion - Maintaining Compliance and Civility
Reversionary rights including FAA policy, industry best practices, related legal issues, and the variety of options airport sponsors have to effectively deal with the issue.
Learning Objectives:
- More fully understand the concept of reversionary rights and its legal implications
- Have a greater understanding of FAA policy related to reversionary rights
- How reversion relates to permanent vs non-permanent improvements
- How to develop and implement a best practices approach to managing reversionary rights
- How to effectively deal with the politics of reversion
Moderator: Robert Trimborn, C.M, C.A.E., Senior Consultant, Aviation Management Consulting Group
Speakers:
Katherine Bales, MBA, C.M., C.A.E., Assistant Airport Manager, Napa County Airport
Plaza Ballroom II
Session F2: The Future of Airport Parking: How Technology is Reimagining the Passenger Experience
The airport experience begins long before travelers pass through security—for many, it starts in the parking lot. As the aviation industry adapts to rapid technological change, from automation to personalization, airport parking is undergoing its own quiet revolution. This talk explores the critical yet often overlooked role parking plays in passenger satisfaction, operational efficiency, and revenue optimization. With emerging technologies like AI and computer vision, companies like Metropolis Technologies Inc. are at the forefront of transforming these spaces into frictionless, intelligent gateways. Drawing from case studies at San Antonio, Dayton, Northwest Arkansas, and Aspen airports, we’ll explore how airports are using innovation to meet modern traveler expectations, reduce congestion, and shape the future of mobility.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe how airport parking impacts the overall passenger experience and contributes to airport operations and non-aeronautical revenue.
- Identify current trends and emerging technologies—such as AI, computer vision, and frictionless payments—being used to modernize airport parking.
- Evaluate case studies from San Antonio, Dayton, Northwest Arkansas, and Aspen airports to assess how innovation can address common parking and mobility challenges.
- Formulate strategic considerations for incorporating smart parking solutions into broader airport planning and customer experience initiatives
4:45 pm to 5:00 pm
Plaza Ballroom I
Conference Wrap Up and Exhibitor Bingo Card Giveaway Grand Drawing
Must be present to win!
6:00 pm to 6:45 pm
Patio Room and Patio
Cocktail Reception
6:45 pm to 9:00 pm
Plaza Ballroom I-II
President’s Banquet + Awards Ceremony
9:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Plaza Arbor Main
Dessert Reception
Wednesday, July 23
10:00 am to 11:00 am
Lido Room
Winter Conference Committee Planning Meeting
All volunteers interested in serving on the 2026 Winter Conference Planning Committee are encouraged to attend this planning kick-off meeting. All are welcome, and it is a great way to get involved in the Chapter!
11:00 am
John Wayne Airport Tour
*Program is subject to change