From the Director’s Desk: The Path to Airport Leadership
August 9, 2024
Running an airport is no small feat—it’s a multifaceted operation that goes beyond commercial flights. At the Quad Cities International Airport, we manage over 2,300 acres of facilities that house airlines, rental services, corporate aviation and various other entities crucial to airport operations. Think of us as landlords responsible for maintaining these spaces and ensuring everything runs smoothly.
But it doesn’t stop there. We’re bound by a web of federal regulations, primarily set by the FAA, governing everything from airfield maintenance to security protocols. Each detail, down to the length of our grass, is scrutinized to meet these standards. On top of that, we adhere to state and local requirements, ensuring transparency and compliance across the board.
Airports have their own unique challenges. From intricate airfield inspections to managing law enforcement and firefighting services, every aspect demands precision and expertise. Runway markings, gate access, and meeting TSA regulations add more layers of complexity.
So, as you can imagine, leading an airport isn’t something you stumble into—it requires years of specialized experience and knowledge. That’s why we launched an airport management intern program aimed at preparing future leaders in aviation. This year, Kristen Kop, a Utah State graduate and aviation enthusiast, joins us. With a background in aviation management and a passion for expanding career opportunities in the industry, Kristen embodies our mission perfectly. Her goal? To one day serve as an executive director of an airport.
We’re proud of our intern program’s success—previous participants have gone on to secure positions in airport operations at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport. It’s a testament to our commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a deeper appreciation for aviation careers.
At MLI, we’re not just managing an airport; we’re shaping the future of air travel, one intern at a time. Our hope is to continue inspiring young professionals worldwide to explore the diverse opportunities our industry offers.