30 Years of NBAA: A Journey of Growth, Relationships, and Unwavering Commitment
As I prepare to attend the NBAA convention for the 34th time, I find myself reflecting on what this journey has meant to me. It’s been more than just an annual event on my calendar—it’s been a cornerstone of my professional life, a source of enduring relationships, and a place where my passion for aviation has been continually reignited.
I still remember my first NBAA convention like it was yesterday. I was a young professional, wide-eyed and eager to learn. The sheer scale of the event was overwhelming—the endless rows of exhibitors, the state-of-the-art aircraft on display, and the buzz of conversations about innovations I’d only read about in industry magazines. I was in awe, not just of the technology but of the people who made it all possible. I didn’t know it then, but this was the beginning of a lifelong journey.
Over the years, NBAA became more than just a trade show. It became a place where I cultivated deep and lasting relationships. Every year, I’d look forward to reconnecting with colleagues who had become friends, catching up on their lives, and discussing the challenges and triumphs we faced in the ever-evolving world of aviation.
These weren’t just business connections—they were human connections. We shared meals, laughter, and stories that transcended the professional realm. The NBAA convention was a reminder that at the heart of this industry are people who care about each other and about advancing aviation.
Attending NBAA every year has been like having a front-row seat to the evolution of aviation. I’ve seen technologies emerge and transform the industry, from the early days of rudimentary GPS systems to today’s sophisticated avionics and autonomous flight capabilities. Being part of these conversations has allowed me to grow alongside the industry, to anticipate changes, and to adapt in ways that have been crucial for my career.
But the lessons weren’t just technical. I learned the importance of resilience, of staying curious, and of the power of persistence. Year after year, NBAA provided a space to learn from the best, to be inspired by new ideas, and to return to my work with renewed energy and vision.
There’s a sentimentality that comes with having attended NBAA for over three decades. Each convention is a marker of time—a reminder of where I was in my career and in my life. I’ve experienced highs and lows, both personally and professionally, and NBAA has been a constant through it all.
Walking the convention floor now, I’m filled with a deep sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the mentors who guided me, for the peers who challenged me, and for the new generation of professionals who continue to push the industry forward. There’s a sense of legacy in knowing that I’ve been part of something bigger than myself, contributing in some small way to the progress of aviation.
The value of attending NBAA consistently cannot be overstated. It’s not just about the deals made or the technologies unveiled—though those are important. It’s about the relationships built, the knowledge gained, and the sense of belonging to a community that shares a common passion. The consistency of participation has provided continuity in my career, a steady pulse in an industry known for its rapid changes.
To those considering whether to attend NBAA, or whether to return year after year, I can only offer this: There is immense value in showing up, in being present, and in committing to the long game. The rewards—both professional and personal—are profound.
As I look to the future, I’m excited about what lies ahead for NBAA and for those who, like me, will continue to make it a priority. The landscape of aviation is changing faster than ever, and the NBAA convention remains a crucial hub for innovation, learning, and connection.
I’m proud to have been part of this journey for 33 years, and I’m eager to see where the next chapter will take us. For those new to NBAA, welcome. For my fellow veterans, I look forward to seeing you again—at the place where our passion for aviation brings us together, year after year.
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