Daren Griffin, A.A.E.

President and CEO, Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority

Daren Griffin became President and CEO of the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority on August 3, 2020, following a nationwide search. He is responsible for leading and directing the Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) and Reno-Stead Airport (RTS) with an annual operating budget of nearly $58 million.

Griffin has worked in partnership with the Board, airlines, and elected officials to make the biggest infrastructure investment in RNO history, known as MoreRNO. The program will expand the ticketing hall, update the road in front of the airport, construct a CONRAC/Ground Transportation Center and culminate with the building of two new concourses.

Formerly the Director of the PDXNext Program at the Port of Portland, Griffin also served the Port as Interim Director of Business Properties, Director of Operations, and General Aviation Manager. Prior to that, Griffin was the State Airports Manager for the State of Oregon and the Deputy Director of Yuma International Airport in Arizona.

A U.S. Army veteran, Griffin holds a bachelor’s degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Arizona and is an Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.). He resides in Reno with his wife and three children.

Keynote Presentation

Captain John 'Ping' Turner

Director, Naval Aviation Warfighting Development Center

Captain John "Ping" Turner, currently the Director of Headquarters, Naval Aviation Warfighting Development Center (NAWDC) is a career Naval Aviator. Originally from Denver Co. he enlisted in the Navy in 1987 spending his first eight years as a Sonar Technician Submarines and Navy Recruiter. He was selected to the Seaman to Admiral Program and completed Officer Candidate School in May 1996. He was designated a Naval Aviator in January 1999 in Kingsville, TX.

CAPT Turner’s operational assignments include Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 115 “Eagles”, USS LINCOLN (the first squadron to transition to the F/A-18E Super Hornet); Carrier Air Wing ELEVEN staff, USS NIMITZ; and VFA-147 “Argonauts, USS STENNIS. Commanding Officer VFA-146 “Blue Diamonds”, USS NIMITZ and Commanding Officer VFA-125 “Rough Raiders”, NAS Lemoore F-35C Fleet Replenishment Squadron. He participated in Operations SOUTHERN WATCH, ENDURING FREEDOM and the initial strikes of IRAQI FREEDOM.

Turner’s shore assignments include VFA-122, F/A-18 Fleet Replacement Squadron, Officer in Charge VFA-101 F-35C Detachment Lemoore and the F-35C Fleet Introduction Team. He has completed oversees tours as the Military Cooperation Officer with the NATO School in Oberammergau, Germany and as the Operations Officer for Carrier Strike Group FIVE, USS RONALD REAGAN in Yokosuka, Japan.

Ping has accumulated over 4000 flight hours and 800 plus arrested landing in six different Naval Aircraft including the F-35C, F/A-18C, F/A-18E/F, EA-18G, T-45C and the T-34C.

Session 1 - Nevada Aviation Association Legislative Update

Susan Fisher

Senior Vice President, McDonald Carano

Susan Fisher brings over three decades of Government Affairs and Advocacy to McDonald Carano, covering issues before local, state and federal bodies. Prior to joining the firm, Ms. Fisher served as executive vice president for a cooperative electric utility headquartered in southern Nevada. She has also owned and operated her own political consulting and public relations company, Fisher Consulting, based in Reno, Nevada.  She earned a B.A. in Journalism from the University of Nevada, Reno.

Fisher has enjoyed appointments to several state boards and commissions by former Governors Kenny Guinn, Jim Gibbons, and Brian Sandoval. She has also served on the Board of Directors for the National Championship Reno Air Races and is a recipient of the National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) Patrick Henry Award for contributions and efforts benefiting the Nevada National Guard.

Fisher has represented a wide variety of client interests, including industry associations, local government, pharmaceuticals, aviation, energy issues, mining and mineral exploration, health care providers, landlord/tenant issues, hotel and lodging, manufactured/modular building industry, power sports, and state regulatory boards.

Session 2 - Airport Economic Development and Airport Self-Sufficiency

Kenneth Moen, A.A.E., C.A.E.

Special Projects Manager, Armstrong Consultants

Ken began his aviation journey as an Army air traffic controller serving in Kentucky, South Korea, and Alabama from 1977-1981. In 1982, Ken was hired as an air traffic controller with the Federal Aviation Administration while earning BS Professional Aeronautics and Aviation Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Following retirement from the FAA in 2009, Ken spent a year at Baghdad International Airport training Iraqi controllers and supporting US Military operations with Washington Consulting Group. Ken began his civilian airport career in 2011 at the Reno-Tahoe International Airport advancing through airport operations and administration. Ken completed his AAE airport management accreditation in July 2016. In 2018, Ken assumed the airport manager position at the Carson City Airport (CXP) until retiring in March 2021. In April 2021, Ken was hired by Armstrong Consultants as a Special Projects Manager and Airport Planner. Ken has been married to Denise for 38 years…in a row! Ken is a father of two and grandpa of one.

Aurora Ritter

Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority

Aurora has 13 years of experience in the Commercial Real Estate Industry with industry leaders such as Prologis, CBRE and now with the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority (RTAA). Her responsibilities have included the management of large, multi-tenant industrial and commercial property portfolios including the oversight of multi-discipline owner and tenant improvement projects. For the past 8 years, Aurora’s responsibilities have included the negotiation of long-term land leases and development project oversight at both the Reno-Tahoe International Airport and the Reno-Stead Airport for third party development of RTAA-owned land. Some of the projects that Aurora has been involved in are the Aloft Hotel, Stellar Aviation new FBO terminal and hangars, industrial development by Dermody Properties at RTS and the mixed-use industrial and commercial center being developed by Tolles Development Company.

David Mieding

Chief Development Officer

David began his commercial real estate career at CBRE in Reno and later was the assistant program manager with Capital Program Management in Sacramento where he planned and executed capital development programs totaling $958 million. From there he was the manager of commercial properties for the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority and most recently was the Northern Nevada leasing director for Basin Street Properties. Dave received his MBA from California State University, Sacramento, and a BA from the University of California, Davis. Additionally, he has a Nevada B2 General Contractor License and holds a commercial pilot certificate with multi-engine, instrument and flight instructor ratings.

Session 3 - State of the Industry

Kenneth Moen, A.A.E., C.A.E.

Special Projects Manager, Armstrong Consultants

Ken began his aviation journey as an Army air traffic controller serving in Kentucky, South Korea, and Alabama from 1977-1981. In 1982, Ken was hired as an air traffic controller with the Federal Aviation Administration while earning BS Professional Aeronautics and Aviation Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Following retirement from the FAA in 2009, Ken spent a year at Baghdad International Airport training Iraqi controllers and supporting US Military operations with Washington Consulting Group. Ken began his civilian airport career in 2011 at the Reno-Tahoe International Airport advancing through airport operations and administration. Ken completed his AAE airport management accreditation in July 2016. In 2018, Ken assumed the airport manager position at the Carson City Airport (CXP) until retiring in March 2021. In April 2021, Ken was hired by Armstrong Consultants as a Special Projects Manager and Airport Planner. Ken has been married to Denise for 38 years…in a row! Ken is a father of two and grandpa of one.

Mike Williams

Phoenix, ADO, Federal Aviation Administration

Mike Williams represents the Federal Aviation Administration as the Manager of the Phoenix Airports District Office. In 2012, Mike was selected as the Assistant Manager of the Phoenix Field Office and charged with establishing this new remote field office for the Agency and leading the office transition to the Phoenix Airports District Office. Mike was selected as the Manager in 2013 and the Phoenix Airports District Office was established in May of 2014. The ADO serves airports in the States of Arizona and Nevada.

Prior to joining the FAA, Mr. Williams served as the Director of Airports for the County of San Bernardino, (CA), where he oversaw a system of six (6) general aviation airports. Prior to that, Mr. Williams was employed as the Development Manager for the Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport Authority. Mr Williams began his airport management career in 1992 with the City of Palm Springs, California, serving in various capacities with the Palm Springs International Airport. Ultimately, Mr. Williams served as the Deputy Director of Aviation – Operations where he had oversight for operations, maintenance, security and capital development for the Airport.

Mr. Williams is a 1990 graduate of Arizona State University, receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Management Technology: Airway Science Management.

Mike is an Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.), having received this distinction in 1998 from the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE).

Mike is a Certified Airport Executive (C.A.E.) from the Southwest Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives (SWAAAE).

Mike is a past member of the Arizona Airports Association and SWAAAE. Mike is a past Board Member of SWAAAE and the AAAE Board of Examiners.

Phil Derner

Director of the Western Region, NBAA

Phil Derner joined NBAA in 2018 after 13 years working as a Loadmaster, Dispatcher, and in system operations management of Part 121, Part 121 Supplemental, Part 135, Part 380, and Part 91 operations. He also owned and operated a New York City-based aviation news and consulting business for 14 years before moving to Southern California. He now serves as NBAA's Director of the Western Region, working hands-on with legislative efforts, industry advocacy, and workforce development initiatives, and more, in 7 western states.

Kurt Haukhol

State Aviation Manager, Nevada Department of Transportation

Pilot for over 50-years with over 10,000-hours of flight time in all types of airplanes and helicopters. Aircraft owner, builder, and former Unlimited Aerobatic Competitor and member of the International Aerobatic Club (IAC). Qualified for the Canadian Aerobatic Team winning 2nd place in Abbotsford @ 2014. Graduated from Florida Institute of Technology with a degree in Air Commerce and Flight Technology in 1974. Owned airplanes since the age of 19, taught basic aerobatics through college. Logged more than 2500-hours in flying boats and served as Chief pilot of Lake Aircraft & Consolidated Aeronautics manufacturer of PK Floats and Lake Amphibians.  Specialization in both open ocean and confined areas training in Alaska, Caribbean, and Brazil. Erlinda, my wife is a native Hawaiian and has also works for airports and in aviation.

Retired from the FAA Runway Safety Program & Quality Assurance in the Air Traffic Organization, based in Los Angeles and Seattle Western Service Center.  Subject matter expert in Safety Management Systems (SMS) as a practitioner and facilitator for airport projects throughout Western Pacific Region including Guam, Marshall Islands, Majuro, American Samoa, Mariana Islands, Tinian, Saipan, and Hawaii. Airspace Analyst and provide comments / approvals on Airport Layout Plans, Master Plans, and Construction Safety Phasing Safety Plans throughout the West. FAA consultant for heliport design, operations, and layout plans. Subject matter expert and focus practice on airport markings, signage, lighting, geometry, operations, and Runway Safety. 

Chief Pilot for California Department of Transportation as principal airport inspector in Southern California for 7-years. Licensed, Permitted, and Inspected more than 200-heliports in Southern California. Private consulting work, teamed to develop the Dallas / Fort Worth Airport and Heliport System Plan that encompassed 16-counties and more that 160-facilities. Served on airport boards, as airport manager, and as chief pilot in several organizations.

NASAO Distinguished Service award in 2003 for Catalina Island Airport (AVX) – Airport in the Sky – entry into the NPIAS, and NASAO Western-Pacific Regional Director in 2020. Currently work for the Nevada Department of Transportation as "State Aviation Manager" and have continued as a public-use airport inspector. 

Daren Griffin, A.A.E.

President and CEO, Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority

Daren Griffin became President and CEO of the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority on August 3, 2020, following a nationwide search. He is responsible for leading and directing the Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) and Reno-Stead Airport (RTS) with an annual operating budget of nearly $58 million.

Griffin has worked in partnership with the Board, airlines, and elected officials to make the biggest infrastructure investment in RNO history, known as MoreRNO. The program will expand the ticketing hall, update the road in front of the airport, construct a CONRAC/Ground Transportation Center and culminate with the building of two new concourses.

Formerly the Director of the PDXNext Program at the Port of Portland, Griffin also served the Port as Interim Director of Business Properties, Director of Operations, and General Aviation Manager. Prior to that, Griffin was the State Airports Manager for the State of Oregon and the Deputy Director of Yuma International Airport in Arizona.

A U.S. Army veteran, Griffin holds a bachelor’s degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Arizona and is an Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.). He resides in Reno with his wife and three children.

Session 4 - Keys to a successful Airport Project: Management, Management, Management

Jeff Moak

Group President, Red Brick Consulting

Jeff Moak has more than 34 years of program/project/construction management experience in the aviation industry. Jeff has extensive experience managing large and medium airport programs and projects including PHX, ATL, SFO, SAN, ONT and LAX. His experience includes all types of airside, landside and ancillary projects, and he is an expert in alternate delivery methods including Design Build, CMAR and PPP. He has a proven record in developing project delivery strategies and creating a culture of collaboration through partnering, which results in successful program implementation and delivery. Jeff is currently the Managing Principal and Executive Program Manager for City of Phoenix Program Management Support Services, providing staff augmentation to the City of Phoenix. Jeff began his career in the Oil & Gas Industry on major lump sum turnkey delivery of major refinery and chemical plant programs. Jeff transitioned to the aviation industry working for large international engineering and project management firms in multiple roles. He is currently the Group President for PM/CM services at Red Brick Consulting, Inc., which is a woman owned program management, project management, construction management, risk management, construction/design consulting, project controls (schedule, cost, estimating) and claims services to the aviation industry and other market sectors. Red Brick serves as trusted advisers to owners, contractors, consultants, and other stakeholders who are building, funding or managing complex construction.

Cody Harris

McCarthy Construction

Cody started his career with McCarthy 10 years ago after graduating from Montana State University in Civil & Construction Engineering. He has been the field leader on several CMAR projects ranging from Aviation to Hospitality and Entertainment. He is typically involved on a Project from early Preconstruction and planning phase through Final Completion. Cody has been a mentor for McCarthy’s new employees and strives to build client and team relationships. He is involved in the Construction Leadership Counsel of AGC and volunteers with the American Heart Association and Habitat for Humanity. When Cody’s not on the jobsite, he spends time in the outdoors fishing, kayaking, and skiing. Cody has been married to his wife of 5 years, Jessica and they have a 3 year-old son, Liam.

Bennett Sloan, PE

Executive Program Manager, Red Brick Consulting

Bennett has 40+ years of experience in the Construction Industry mostly in Aviation. His responsibilities have included the management of large, multi-discipline, multiple prime contractors, airport construction projects. For the past 27+ years Bennett’s projects have been at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport where I have been a part of a new Terminal (T4), a new Runway (7R-25L), a new Air National Guard Base (the 161st Aerial Refueling Wing), Terminal 3 Redevelopment, and a new FAA Control Tower, and most recently a new Automated Train, the “PHX Sky Train.” And now excited to be working on the MoreRNO Program as the Executive Program Manager.

Gary Probert

Chief Infrastructure and Planning Officer, Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority

Gary Probert is the Chief Planning & Infrastructure Officer for the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority (RTAA). Mr. Probert oversees the Planning & Environmental, Engineering & Construction, Building Maintenance, and the Airfield Maintenance Departments. His teams work through all stages of the life of projects, beginning with planning, design, construction, and finally maintenance for all assets at both the Reno-Tahoe International and Reno-Stead Airports. Mr. Probert’s largest challenge at the airport will be the delivery of the MoreRNO program, the largest infrastructure investment in the history of the airport. The program consists of the expansion of the ticketing hall, reconstruction of the road in front of the terminal, construction of a consolidated rental car facility and ground transportation center, two new concourses, and a new headquarters and police station.

Mr. Probert has worked for the RTAA since 2011. Prior to his career at the airport, he worked as a consultant in the Reno-Sparks area for 28-years. He has lived in Reno for 40-years, has been married to Nancy for 39-years and has a daughter, Elle. 

Session 5 - Limiting Airport Exposure to Liability

Alex Kovacs, C.M., C.A.E.

Director of Finance, Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority

For the last 14 years Alex has been fortunate to be part of the airport industry and have been a certified member of AAAE since 2018. Alex’s experience has been concentrated on finance, budget, and risk management aspects, and currently serves on the SWAAAE Board, representing Nevada. Alex also serves as the Treasurer for the Nevada Aviation Association and is passionate about the airport business and leadership.

James Van Meter

National Aviation Practice Lead, USI Insurance

James Van Meter serves as the National Practice Leader for Aviation in Atlanta, Georgia. In this role James leads the national aviation team and works closely with the USI regional teams to establish and maintain relationships with key clients and the aviation underwriting community. James is a subject matter expert in all segments of aviation and has deep experience working with aviation clients across the air transportation industry.

James began his career in aviation insurance in 2004 and joined USI in 2020. Prior to joining USI, James worked for numerous global aviation insurance companies in a variety of underwriting roles and leadership positions. His last position was as Vice President of Aviation Underwriting at Allianz Global

Corporate & Specialty. In this role, James managed a diverse portfolio of national aviation accounts, aviation programs and he oversaw new product development. James received his Juris Doctor from Southwestern Law School. He also received a Master of Business Administration in Aviation and a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Business Administration from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. James served honorably in the United States Marine Corps and is a Veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom. James is a licensed attorney in the State of California and is a licensed Property and Casualty agent in all fifty states.

James is an active pilot and holds a commercial pilot license with multi-engine, instrument and remote pilot ratings. James started flying when he was a teenager and has flown a variety of general aviation aircraft throughout the United States. Originally from Los Angeles, California, James now lives in Atlanta, Georgia with his wife and three sons who are active in Boy Scouts and a variety of sports in the community.

Ann Morgan

Attorney, Fennemore Craig

Ann Morgan is a distinguished attorney in our employment and labor law practice, where her work includes employment law, aviation, and general business law matters. She has served in a general counsel capacity to private individuals as well as the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority. Ann is also the past chairman of the Legal Affairs Committee for Airports Council International-North America (ACI-NA), an industry group for airports throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe. This committee is made up of airport attorneys representing airports across the nation. As a result of her long-time participation, she was asked to join the Legal Affairs Steering Committee and rose to become chair. Ann served as a member of the Steering Committee's TSA subcommittee which has regular conferences with the General Counsel of the TSA to raise issues, including, the proposed change of responsibility for Exit Lanes as well as a request by some Federal Security Directors for a Memorandum of Understanding regard the safeguarding of airport video.

Ken Slon, ARM, WCCP

Risk Manager, Clark County Department of Aviation

Ken Slon brings more than 36 years of experience to the Clark County Department of Aviation, with diverse skills in fields such as aviation, municipal government, specialized transportation, healthcare, financial services, nonprofits, and the insurance industry. Mr. Slon has extensive risk management experience, having been the Risk Manager for the second-largest paratransit provider in the United States, as well as the Risk Manager for several Southern California Cities. He also has a background on the insurance carrier side and in insurance brokerage. He was active in ICRMA, a Joint Powers Authority Insurance Pool, which was comprised of 23 Southern California cities, and has won several awards for his risk management programs. Mr. Slon began his career adjusting liability and workers’ compensation claims for Argonaut Insurance and brings his risk management and claims expertise to the Clark County Department of Aviation, handling its risk management program.

Mr. Slon has obtained several industry designations, including Associate in Risk Management (ARM) by the Insurance Institute of America, Workers’ Compensation Claims Professional (WCCP) by the Insurance Educational Association, and a Workers’ Claims Certificate (WCC). He also received the Independent Cities Risk Management Authority’s Outstanding Star Award for three consecutive years, the Monterey Park Award of Excellence, and the Monterey Park Mayor’s Award of Appreciation.

Mr. Slon has been involved with ACI-NA Risk Management Committee, the Public Agency Risk Managers Association (PARMA), Council on Self-Insured Public Agencies (COSIPA), Risk Insurance Management Society (RIMS), and American Public Transportation Association (APTA) Risk Management committee. Mr. Slon is originally from Cleveland, Ohio, and attended Ohio University, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree. 

Session 6 - Airport Self Inspection and Preventative Maintenance is a Formula for Success

Mike Dikun

Western Pacific Territory Manager, Armstrong Consultants, Inc.

Mike was literally born into aviation, being an Air Force brat until the age of 11.  After earning his private pilot certificate in 1985, Mike began his official aviation career in 1986, working for various aircraft maintenance shops and FBO’s in Washington and Montana.

Mike was involved in airport management for 26 years, where he served in a variety of positions at Part 139 and GA airports in Montana, New York, California and Nevada.

Mike has served on the SWAAAE Board of Directors and is a Past President of the Nevada Airports Association.

In September of 2017, Mike was hired by Armstrong Consultants, Inc. as the Western Pacific Territory Manager, based in Reno, NV. Mike is a private pilot and aircraft owner.  Mike and his wife Denise (Dee Dee) enjoy the rural lifestyle of northern Nevada. They enjoy most outdoor activities, but horses (Dee Dee) and golf and flying (Mike) take up a fair amount of the leisure calendar.

Dave Derie

Airfield Maintenance Manager, Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority

I started as an electrician’s apprentice in 1986 and worked the majority of my career in residential and commercial electrical for various contractors until taking a position at the Reno Tahoe Airport Authority in 2005 as an Airfield Maintenance Electrician.  In 2009 I was promoted to the position of Airfield Maintenance Supervisor where I managed a staff of 12 to maintain all pavements, markings, fencing and electrical.  In 2021 I was promoted to the position of Airfield Maintenance Superintendent where I oversee a staff of 27 and am responsible for primarily all areas not attached to a building, our fleet of over 500 vehicles and equipment, as well as assisting our engineering staff with their numerous projects. 

Scott Gordon

Airport Manager, Reno-Stead Airport

Scott Gordon is the Manager of Reno Stead Airport.  Scott has a B.S. in Aeronautical Technology from Arizona State University and a Masters in Aviation Administration from Southern Illinois University.  Scott has worked for two state DOT departments, noise abatement and planning as well as numerous roles in airport operations over a 30+ year career.

Graham Ritz

Director of Airport Operations, Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority

Graham Ritz is the Director of Airport Operations for the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority. Mr. Ritz’s primary function is to operate the Reno-Tahoe International Airport in compliance with applicable FAA regulations and state law, as well as, to maintain the positive relationship with Nevada Air National Guard, and to promote Commercial Air Service and General Aviation in a safe and secure manner. Prior to Reno, Mr. Ritz has had time at the San Jose Intl. Airport, Central Illinois Regional Airport, Washington Dulles Intl. Airport, Put-in-Bay Airport, and the Indianapolis Intl. Airport. He earned his Bachelors of Science (B.S.) degree in Aviation Administration from Lewis University outside Chicago, IL. Mr. Ritz obtained his AAAE Certified Member (C.M.) designation, is a Board Member of the Southwest AAAE chapter and is recognized as a Certified Airport Executive (C.A.E.).

Outside of his professional life, he enjoys the outdoors, playing sports, and spending time with friends and family. When time allows, he enjoys utilizing his private pilot skills and flying friends around the west coast.

Eric Hamrey

Director of Public Works, Mineral County, Nevada

Eric Hamrey was born and raised in Hawthorne, Nevada. Eric has been in the field of mechanics for over 45 years. His career stops include 30 years at the Hawthorne Army Ammunition Depot (The Depot), 13 years at the Mineral County Public Works Department where he has served as the Public Works Director for past 8 years. Eric believes that the safety culture at the Depot taught him that there no shortcuts to a safe operating environment. Safety was a critical part of the Depot’s mission and Eric learned that no safety related detail was too small. Eric believes that his experience at the Depot has attributed to the safety culture Eric has developed in his role managing the Hawthorne Industrial Airport. 

Session 7 - Recreational Aviation Foundation

Julian Pridmore-Brown

Nevada State Liaison

Julian Pridmore-Brown serves as the Nevada Liaison for the Recreational Aviation Foundation, the 10,000 plus member national organization focused on preserving, improving, and creating airstrips for recreational access. Julian brings over 30 years of general aviation flying experience flying all over the western US, Canada, and Alaska. His aviation career includes several Part 121 and 135 operators where he served as a pilot, check airman, chief pilot, and Director of Flight Standards. Currently a Boeing 737 pilot, he also serves as a Designated Pilot Examiner for the FAA conducting practical tests in a wide variety of aircraft from the private pilot through Airline Transport Pilot level. While southern Nevada is home base, his summer aviation adventures take him to Alaska’s interior where he enjoys working on a remote property only accessible by general aviation float plane. 

Session 8 - The Future of Airport Documentation and Analysis is here.

Grant Bishop

Silent Falcon UAS

Experienced Business & Military leader with a demonstrated history of working in the Aerospace industry. Subject Matter Expert/Leader in Commercial & Military Inter Modal Transportation Systems, Emergency Management, Business Planning, Operations Management, and Safety Management Systems. Patent holder for airport safety and software systems

Jared Esselman, A.A.E.

Retired Utah DOT State Aviation

Jared Esselman began his career in aviation in the United States Air Force as a Loadmaster in the 15^th Airlift Squadron. Jared served on over 300 combat missions in Iraq and Afghanistan and is a decorated combat veteran. During his military service Jared also earned his FAA pilot certification and is an IFR rated private pilot and certified Part 107 UAS operator.

Jared earned his Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the College of Charleston in Charleston, SC and his Masters in Public Policy from Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government.

Jared continued to serve as intern in the White House under George W. Bush. He worked in the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs and coordinated communications and subject matter efforts between the President and the 55 Governors.

Focused on aviation policy, Jared served as Director of State Government Affairs for the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, the world’s largest aviation association. While there, Jared drafted and passed aviation laws in 25 states and Puerto Rico.

Currently, Jared manages the state fleet of aircraft, and the statewide system of 46 public use airports, 90 back country airstrips and over 6,000 registered aircraft in Utah. His duties include management of the $80 million annual airport capital improvement budget, oversight of all aviation rules and regulations in the state and increasing economic development via airports and aviation. Additionally, he is the Airport Manager for the state-owned Hanksville Airport.As Director of Aeronautics, Jared also serves on the Board of Directors for the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) and until recently, served as the Chairman of the Center for Aviation Research and Education.

Jared is one of the national leaders in Advanced Aerial Mobility and has implemented the nation’s first statewide planning study for aerial corridors, placement and design standards for vertiports, and the integration of advanced aerial mobility and surface transportation system.

Jared is an Accredited Airport Executive (AAE) with the American Association of Airport Executives and member of Phi Theta Kappa and Pi Sigma Alpha societies. He also served on the Board of Directors for the Harvard Alumni Association, the National Conference of State Legislators Foundation and as Chairman of the Program Advisory Board for the School of Aviation at Utah Valley University.

In his spare time, Jared gives airport tours and mentors high school and middle school students who are interested in careers in aviation.

Mark Dombroff

Partner, Fox Rothschild, LLP

Mark concentrates his practice on the aviation and transportation industries, including litigation, regulatory administrative and enforcement matters, investigations, airport and aircraft security and employment issues. Mark has handled numerous safety, enforcement, and regulatory matters before the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and other administrative agencies, whether arising from an accident or incident or other material compliance matter, including issues involving the Departments of State, Justice, the Treasury and Homeland Security, and the Transportation Security Administration.

Tim Sudduth

President, Symphony Aerospace

Tim is responsible for overseeing Symphony’s Aviation and Aerospace practice.  While Tim runs all aspects of the practice relating to aviation exposures, he specifically assists with analyzing risks, designing a customized risk management solution and negotiating insurance programs with the aviation marketplace. Tim has 25 years of aviation experience, of which 16 have been spent directly involved with aviation insurance.

Prior to joining Symphony Aerospace, Tim worked for an insurance technology company developing and deploying a direct-to-consumer aviation online insurance platform.  Earlier, Tim worked for McGriff as an aviation specialty broker overseeing a sizable portfolio of accounts.  Preceding his time with McGriff, Tim held various senior positions in the underwriting community, with two aviation insurance carriers.

Tim’s background brings a unique perspective as he has been on all sides of the insurance placement. He was the risk manager for a large aviation entity, and aviation product line underwriting manager for one of the largest carriers in the world and broker. He has extensive experience in structuring, negotiating, placing, and servicing aviation and aerospace related policies. Additionally, Tim has extensive experience in policy language development and contract reviews.  

Tim is an active licensed pilot and completed both his graduate and undergraduate studies with degrees in Aviation Management and a Master of Aeronautical Science from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University.

Tim is an active member in the following aviation industry organizations, National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), Helicopter Association International (HAI), National Air Transportation Association (NATA), Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), and Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA).

Russell Coleman

Collins Aerospace

With almost 20 years’ experience within Systems and Software Integration, in the past and at present I have been employed by companies who are world leaders in their field including, BAE Systems, Airbus and Goodrich. In my current role at Collins Aerospace, I lead the pursuit of strategic opportunities in adjacent markets where we can use our skills and knowledge developed in the Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance sector, and tailor those capabilities to affordable commercial market applications.

Session 9 - Dealing with Development - On and Off airport - through the OE/AAA 7460 process

Paul Hannah

Chief Airspace and Flight Operations Engineer, LEAN Technology Corporation

Paul Hannah is the Chief Airspace and Flight Operations Engineer at LEAN Technology Corporation and a President Emeritus of the Society of Aircraft Performance and Operations Engineers (www.sapoe.org).  Paul has spent the past 24 years of his career working either with, or for, airports on a diverse range of disciplines including airspace, runway length determination, OE/AAA, OEI obstacle mitigation, TERPS/PBN instrument procedure design, aircraft noise, NAVAIDs, comms and approach lighting.  In parallel to his airport work, Paul has worked for FAR 121, 91-K and 135 aircraft operators, developed FAA/DoD Instrument Procedure tools and designed aircraft performance, weight and balance and mission planning tools for fixed wing operators.  Paul is a native of Chicago land, but currently resides in the greater Sacramento area where he serves clients regionally and throughout the NAS.

Ricky Sanchez

Civil Engineer, Phoenix Airports District Office

Ricardo Sanchez is a Civil Engineer in the Phoenix Airports District Office. Ricardo has been with the Phoenix Airports District Office for six years. Ricardo is from New Mexico and graduated from New Mexico State University. Ricardo’s hobbies include watching sports, working out, hiking, and bike riding. Ricardo also enjoys watching movies with his family. Ricardo enjoys traveling for business and leisure. What Ricardo likes most about my job is being able to serve the community.

Chris Harris

Aviation Safety, FAA, Flight Standards Service

Inspector, Flight Standards, Flight Procedures and Airspace Group

Dual rated (airplane and helicopter) pilot, extensive GA and airline (Part 121) experience

Over 10 years FAA, including Flight Standards District Office, Regional Office, and Policy Divisions

Terry Ferrell

Airport Program Administrator for Airspace, Clark County Department of Aviation

Terry is the Clark County Department of Aviation Airport Program Administrator for Airspace.  Terry has over 26 years of aviation experience with the United States Air Force and the Federal Aviation Administration as an Air Traffic Controller, Airspace Specialist, Quality Assurance Specialist and Training Specialist.  As an Airspace Specialist he has designed airspace, procedures and obstruction evaluations on numerous projects.  He has attained the ACE Certification from American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE).

Lissa Butterfield

Manager of Planning and Environmental Services, Reno Tahoe Airport Authority

Lissa K. Butterfield is the Manager of Planning & Environmental Services with the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority (RTAA) which owns & operates the Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) and the Reno-Stead Airport (RTS). An “on-the-job” airport planner, Lissa learned everything she knows about airport and aviation planning at the RTAA. With nearly twenty years of general aviation, small, and medium-hub airport planning and noise experience, over fifteen years of land use planning experience, and two years of state planning experience, Lissa has most recently completed a Concourse Redevelopment Planning Study for RNO that will help guide the RTAA as it undertakes the biggest capital project program in its history, the MoreRNO Program.

Session 10 - Why Contact the Air Traffic Organization for an Airfield Project?

Matthew Murphy

NAS Planning Team Manager, Western Pacific Region
FAA, Western Service Center, Planning and Requirements Group

Matthew Murphy has 30 years of aviation experience in areas such as: Aircraft Maintenance, Aerospace Manufacturing—Quality Assurance, En Route Automation Modernization Systems Integration and Aviation Technical Systems Program Management. He joined the FAA in November 2003 working at Headquarters in Washington, DC then in 2006 relocated to the Northwest Mountain Region and has held multiple positions serving all three Western Service Area regions: Alaska, Northwest Mountain and Western Pacific. He is a U.S. Navy and Persian Gulf War Veteran.

Mr. Murphy holds an A.S. in Mathematics from Bellevue College, a B.A. in English—Communications from the University of Washington, and a M.S. in Project Management from City University—Seattle.

David Meyer

Project Manager, J-U-B Nevada Aviation Group

David joined J-U-B Engineers in 2009 and quickly discovered a passion for aviation engineering. David has been involved in various Nevada airport projects beginning with the final pavement marking inspection at the Austin Airport in October 2011. He then served as the full-time project inspector for the 2012 Reconstruct Apron Project at the Battle Mountain Airport, a project experience that convinced David to jump into Aviation Engineering with both feet. David now serves as a Project Manager for J-U-B’s Nevada Aviation Group and loves the being a part of the wonderful Nevada Aviation community.

Kenneth Moen, A.A.E., C.A.E.

Special Projects Manager, Armstrong Consultants

Ken began his aviation journey as an Army air traffic controller serving in Kentucky, South Korea, and Alabama from 1977-1981. In 1982, Ken was hired as an air traffic controller with the Federal Aviation Administration while earning BS Professional Aeronautics and Aviation Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Following retirement from the FAA in 2009, Ken spent a year at Baghdad International Airport training Iraqi controllers and supporting US Military operations with Washington Consulting Group. Ken began his civilian airport career in 2011 at the Reno-Tahoe International Airport advancing through airport operations and administration. Ken completed his AAE airport management accreditation in July 2016. In 2018, Ken assumed the airport manager position at the Carson City Airport (CXP) until retiring in March 2021. In April 2021, Ken was hired by Armstrong Consultants as a Special Projects Manager and Airport Planner. Ken has been married to Denise for 38 years…in a row! Ken is a father of two and grandpa of one.

Daren Griffin, A.A.E.

President and CEO, Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority

Daren Griffin became President and CEO of the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority on August 3, 2020, following a nationwide search. He is responsible for leading and directing the Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) and Reno-Stead Airport (RTS) with an annual operating budget of nearly $58 million.

Griffin has worked in partnership with the Board, airlines, and elected officials to make the biggest infrastructure investment in RNO history, known as MoreRNO. The program will expand the ticketing hall, update the road in front of the airport, construct a CONRAC/Ground Transportation Center and culminate with the building of two new concourses.

Formerly the Director of the PDXNext Program at the Port of Portland, Griffin also served the Port as Interim Director of Business Properties, Director of Operations, and General Aviation Manager. Prior to that, Griffin was the State Airports Manager for the State of Oregon and the Deputy Director of Yuma International Airport in Arizona.

A U.S. Army veteran, Griffin holds a bachelor’s degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Arizona and is an Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.). He resides in Reno with his wife and three children.

Ann Richart, A.A.E.

Director of Aeronautics, Nebraska Department of Transportation

Ann Richart is an accredited airport executive who has been working in aviation for 38 years. As an airport manager she has managed the airports in Klamath Falls, Oregon; Oregon state-owned airports; Hutchinson, Kansas; Elmira Corning, New York; and Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts. She was also the Operations Manager at the Eugene Airport in Oregon and worked for Aurora Air Service, Audi Air, and Pacific Alaska Airlines in Fairbanks, Alaska. She has served as the State Aviation Director in and is currently the State Aeronautics Director in Nebraska. In May she’ll take over as the Director of Aviation as Washington State DOT making her the first person to serve in this position at three different states.

Richart holds a bachelor's degree in Aeronautical Studies from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. She has served as the president of both the Oregon and New York Airport Management Associations, president of the Northeast Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives, and as the Vice Chair of the National Association of State Aviation Officials. She currently serves on the Policy Review Committee of the American Association of Airport Executives.

Phil Derner

Director of the Western Region, NBAA

Phil Derner joined NBAA in 2018 after 13 years working as a Loadmaster, Dispatcher, and in system operations management of Part 121, Part 121 Supplemental, Part 135, Part 380, and Part 91 operations. He also owned and operated a New York City-based aviation news and consulting business for 14 years before moving to Southern California. He now serves as NBAA's Director of the Western Region, working hands-on with legislative efforts, industry advocacy, and workforce development initiatives, and more, in 7 western states.

Jared Yoshiki

Western Pacific Regional Manager, AOPA

Jared started with AOPA in September 2022 and serves as the Regional Manager for the Western Pacific Region which includes the States of Arizona, California, Hawaii, and Nevada.  Jared is a Commercial Pilot with Instrument and Multi-Engine add-ons and has almost 300 hours of flight time in both single and multi-engine aircraft. Jared comes to AOPA after most recently serving as a Chief of Staff to a California State Senator and with over 20 years of experience working in the California State Legislature. Jared attended Cal Poly Pomona where he studied Political Science and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Golden Gate University. Jared and his wife are longtime residents of the Golden State and enjoy traveling the world. Jared enjoys flying his 1966 Piper Cherokee 180 during all times of the year in the warm California sun while also playing golf and fitting in a fishing trip where he can. Originally a Southern California boy, Jared now resides in West Sacramento.

Mike Williams

Phoenix, ADO, Federal Aviation Administration

Mike Williams represents the Federal Aviation Administration as the Manager of the Phoenix Airports District Office. In 2012, Mike was selected as the Assistant Manager of the Phoenix Field Office and charged with establishing this new remote field office for the Agency and leading the office transition to the Phoenix Airports District Office. Mike was selected as the Manager in 2013 and the Phoenix Airports District Office was established in May of 2014. The ADO serves airports in the States of Arizona and Nevada.

Prior to joining the FAA, Mr. Williams served as the Director of Airports for the County of San Bernardino, (CA), where he oversaw a system of six (6) general aviation airports. Prior to that, Mr. Williams was employed as the Development Manager for the Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport Authority. Mr Williams began his airport management career in 1992 with the City of Palm Springs, California, serving in various capacities with the Palm Springs International Airport. Ultimately, Mr. Williams served as the Deputy Director of Aviation – Operations where he had oversight for operations, maintenance, security and capital development for the Airport.

Mr. Williams is a 1990 graduate of Arizona State University, receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Management Technology: Airway Science Management.

Mike is an Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.), having received this distinction in 1998 from the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE).

Mike is a Certified Airport Executive (C.A.E.) from the Southwest Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives (SWAAAE).

Mike is a past member of the Arizona Airports Association and SWAAAE. Mike is a past Board Member of SWAAAE and the AAAE Board of Examiners.

NATAC Meeting