Emerging Leaders Conference
January 19-21, 2027 | Virtual
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About the Conference
Our Young Professionals (YoPro) Committee provides career development, networking, and educational opportunities for the next generation of airport professionals. As the premier event of the year for young professionals in aviation, the Emerging Leaders Conference offers a unique, three-day virtual experience where participants can engage in all three of these core initiatives. We invite all ambitious aviation young professionals to join us this upcoming January for the committee’s eighth annual conference, and take advantage of this invaluable opportunity to grow and connect.
Conference Agenda
Please check back often for updates.
Tuesday, January 19
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Opening Keynote
12:00 - 12:30 p.m. ET
Keynote: Todd Hauptli, President & Chief Executive Officer, AAAEKick off the Emerging Leaders Conference with AAAE President & CEO Todd Hauptli for an engaging conversation about the future of airport leadership. As AAAE approaches its 100th anniversary in 2028, Todd will reflect on the association’s legacy and look ahead to the opportunities shaping its next century. He’ll share insights on growing as a leader, making an impact, and the vital role young professionals play in moving AAAE and the airport industry forward.
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Session 1: Airport Design & Planning – Shaping the Future Airport Experience
1:00 - 2:00 p.m. ET
Airport design and planning influence every aspect of the passenger, employee, and operational experience, from terminal functionality and passenger flow to long-term growth, sustainability, and community impact. Yet planning and design discussions often receive less visibility than operations, engineering, and technology-focused topics. This interactive session will explore how thoughtful planning and design decisions shape the future of airports, highlighting lessons learned, emerging trends, and opportunities for innovation. The discussion is intended to engage young professionals across the aviation industry and provide insight into terminal planning, passenger experience, infrastructure development, future flexibility, and the evolving role of airports as community and economic catalysts.
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Session 2: No Linear Paths: Navigating Diverse Entry Points in Aviation
2:15-3:15 p.m. ET
There is no single path to a successful career in aviation. Professionals enter the industry from a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and disciplines, each bringing a unique perspective to the field. This session will explore the diverse pathways that lead people into aviation and how those experiences can shape career growth. Through real-world perspectives and discussion, attendees will gain insight into navigating their own career journey, recognizing transferable skills, and embracing opportunities that may not fit a traditional career path.
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Session 3: Interactive Session
3:30-4:30 p.m. ET
Wednesday, January 20
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Networking & Conversation
12:15-12:45 p.m. ET
Start your day with connection! Join us for a 30-minute networking session before the first session of the day to meet fellow attendees in smaller breakout rooms. We'll kick things off with a fun icebreaker or thought-provoking topic to spark conversations and help you build valuable connections in the aviation industry. -
Session 4: Airport Funding Foundations: Navigating Ownership Models, External Pressures, and Project Priorities
1:00-2:00 p.m. ET
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Session 5: What to Expect in First Level Management: Preparing for Your Next Role
2:15-3:15 p.m. ET
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Session 6: Cleared for Launch: Preparing the Next Generation of Spaceport Professionals
3:30-4:30 p.m. ET
Thursday, January 21
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Networking & Conversation
12:00-12:30 p.m. ET
Start your day with connection! Join us for a 30-minute networking session before the first session of the day to meet fellow attendees in smaller breakout rooms. We'll kick things off with a fun icebreaker or thought-provoking topic to spark conversations and help you build valuable connections in the aviation industry. -
Session 7: AI in Airports: Innovation or Risk?
1:00-2:00 p.m. ET
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape the aviation industry, airports are faced with new opportunities and challenges in adopting emerging technologies. While AI has the potential to improve operational efficiency, enhance the passenger experience, and support decision-making, its implementation also raises concerns surrounding cybersecurity, data privacy, reliability, and the role of human oversight. This session will explore both the benefits and potential risks of integrating AI into airport operations, highlighting real-world applications and considerations for airport professionals. Attendees will examine how emerging leaders can balance innovation with operational responsibility and determine when AI is an asset—and when it may introduce new vulnerabilities.
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Session 8: YoPro Senior Emerging Leaders Working Group
2:15-3:15 p.m. ET
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Session 9: Lessons in Leadership: Navigating Change, Challenges, and Opportunity
3:30-4:30 p.m. ET
Registration Deadlines
You acknowledge that in registering for and attending this AAAE event, you agree to adhere to the cancellation policy noted below, AAAE's Duty of Care, and AAAE's Code of Conduct and Terms and Conditions.
If you would like assistance with registration, please contact member.services@aaae.org.
AAAE accepts registration regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, sex, physical disability and national or ethnic origin. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment and educational services.
NOTE: AAAE reserves the right to postpone or cancel an event if the number of registrants is insufficient; due to acts of God; or any other reason beyond AAAE’s control. In this event, we will notify all registrants by email.
Confirmation letters will be emailed to attendees within two weeks of receipt of registration. However, if you have not received a confirmation email two business days prior to the meeting, and you enrolled at least two weeks prior to the meeting, please contact the AAAE Meetings Department at AAAEmeetings@aaae.org.
AAAE Media Access Policy:
The American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) reserves the right to grant at their sole discretion access to TV, radio and print media organizations or individuals that have registered and received prior authorization from AAAE at least 72 hours prior to an AAAE event they wish to cover. Due to the sensitive nature of some discussions, not all sessions at some AAAE events will be open to media. AAAE retains the sole right to grant or refuse media access for any event or section of an event it operates. Please direct all inquiries to Brian Kalish.
Aviation Emerging Leaders
Natalie Pavelock, C.M.
Jacobs
Earned August 2022
Shon L. Dempsey, A.A.E., ACE
Frederick Municipal Airport
Earned August 2023
Matthew C. Parker, C.M., ACE
DM AIRPORTS, LTD.
Earned August 2023
Chasen Congreves, C.M.
Pease Development Authority
Earned August 2023
David Montiverdi, C.M., A.M.F.
Avports - ALB
Earned August 2023
Joshua Cobb, C.M.
Portland International Jetport
Earned August 2023
We’re thrilled to have you join us, and we'd love your help in sharing the excitement. Whether you're a speaker or attendee, your voice plays a key role in building momentum for this year's event. To make it easy, we've put together social media graphics to promote your participation. Here, you'll find a variety of downloadable graphics to share on social media.
Ready to get started? Right-click on the graphic you want, click Open Image in New Tab, and save the photo. If you'd rather use Canva to add your photo and information, click the button below to access the template.
When you post on social media, be sure to tag @aaaedelivers on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and X!
Contact Information
Questions? Contact Us!
Program & Registration Information
Jennifer Richards
703.575.2479
Social Media Kit