2025 Annual Conference

ATEC Academy: Educator Professional Development

Navigate the classroom with confidence! This two-day session kicks off an immersive three-month training course intended to equip new educators with essential teaching tools. Separate registration required.

Welcoming Remarks and Exhibitor Spotlight

Hear from our host and get a round-the-room introduction of exhibitors and the services, products, and opportunities they provide for aviation technician education.Kenny Alexander, Chancellor of Aviation Institute of Maintenance and Mayor of NorfolkJoel English, Chief Executive Officer, Aviation Institute of MaintenanceJames Hall, ATEC President & Vice President, Aviation and Workforce Development, WSU TechKurt Yorgey, Director of Maintenance, Piedmont Airlines

What Have We Done for You Lately

Join council leadership for an engaging session where we share the latest developments in association initiatives and delve into the impactful endeavors undertaken by the council for the benefit of its members.Jared Britt, Legislative Committee Chair & Director of AMT Training, Southern Utah UniversityKelly Filgo, Director of Operations, Choose AerospaceSean Gallagan, Regulatory Committee Chair & Chief Executive Officer, Aviation Workforce SolutionsSean Glassberg, ATEC Academy Lead Instructor & Owner, Educator Training & ConsultingNicole Gleaton, ATEC Conference Committee Chair & Director of Communications, Aviation Institute of MaintenanceKaren Johnson, ATEC Journal Editor & Associate Professor, Southern Illinois University CarbondaleModerator: Crystal Maguire, Executive Director, ATECRecognize graduates from 2024 ATEC Academy cohorts, hand out certificates and challenge coins

Session I: The Pipeline Report: Mechanic Workforce Flow Increasing, But Demand Still Outpaces Supply

The latest Pipeline Report reveals growth in mechanic certifications and school enrollments while highlighting ongoing challenges in meeting aviation workforce demand. Discover data-driven insights, emerging opportunities, and ATEC’s initiatives to tackle barriers, boost capacity, and bridge the supply gap for certificated aviation maintenance professionals.Livia Hayes, Director, Oliver Wyman VectorDevon Holden, Technical Specialist, Oliver Wyman VectorCrystal Maguire, Executive Director, ATEC

Session II: Bridging the Gap: Straight Talk

Join a dynamic discussion with leading voices in aviation maintenance as we tackle the critical topic of knowledge and skill gaps in new hires. Employers from across the industry will share candid insights on the challenges they face and the traits they value most in entry-level technicians. From technical know-how to professionalism, soft skills, and effective communication, this panel will delve into the real-world expectations of employers and the steps educational institutions and industry partners can take to help bridge the gap.William Smith, Director Learning and Development, Delta Air LinesJoel English, Chief Executive Officer, Aviation Institute of MaintenanceRepair stationOEMRegionalModerator: Justin W. Madden, Managing Director, Engineering & Maintenance, Airlines for America

Session III: Spreading Awareness: K-12 Outreach Strategies and Resources for Pathway Development

Explore innovative approaches and resources for building early pathways into aviation careers and inspiring the next generation of aviation professionals. Panelists will share successful K-12 outreach programs, strategies for engaging students in STEM and aviation-related activities, and best practices for fostering partnerships between industry and education. Michelle Hurdle, President, Flight Works AlabamaPaul Maloy, Director of Education, Experimental Aircraft AssociationDan Weyant, President, Tango FlightEric Crump, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Aerospace Center for ExcellenceApril Lanotte, STEM Integration Lead, NASA Aeronautics Research Mission DirectorateChris Sharp, Manager, Aviation Workforce and Education Division, FAAModerator: Kelly Filgo, Director of Operations, Choose Aerospace

Breakouts

Full session descriptions and speakers will publish soon.

Voyage & Vista: A Maritime Soirée

sponsored by

Our host sponsor, the Aviation Institute of Maintenance has teamed up with United Airlines and curated a special maritime adventure and an unforgettable evening. Attendees will choose between a sailboat sunset cruise, featuring live music, or a river tour of the world's largest naval base from the water. Following the two-hour nautical escapade, join us at the Norfolk Waterside District for dinner, yard games and fire pits at The Harbor Club, conveniently located one block from the conference hotel. 

America's Flying Museum Tour

1341 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23457

NASA Langley Research Center Tour

1 Nasa Dr, Hampton, VA 23666

8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

FAA Designated Mechanic Examiner Recurrent Seminar

2329 E Little Creek Rd, Norfolk, Room 108