novemberdecember2024 - 20

Hometown:
Bakersfield, CA
Alma Mater:
California State
University,
Bakersfield
Age: 35
Courtney Johnson, C.M., C.A.E.
Director of Airports, County of San Luis Obispo
Courtney Johnson, C.M., C.A.E., is the Director of
Airports for San Luis Obispo County, where her transformative
leadership has earned her recognition as one
of the most innovative and impactful professionals in
aviation. Appointed in October 2020, Johnson became
the youngest person to hold this role, guiding the
county's airports through operational enhancements,
community outreach, and workforce development.
Her work is grounded in a vision of accessibility and
inclusivity, exemplified by her DEI-focused initiatives
at San Luis Obispo County Airport (SBP), where she
ensures that both employees and passengers feel
valued and welcome.
Johnson has led several significant programs, including
a partnership with AAAE and Mead & Hunt to establish
the Workforce Development Task Force under
the ACT Program. This task force creates pathways
for underrepresented groups in aviation, enhancing
workforce diversity and expanding opportunities. Her
commitment to community extends to local education,
where she collaborates with SLO County schools to
introduce aeronautical STEM courses, promoting
career pathways in aviation for disadvantaged youth.
Under her direction, SBP earned the San Luis Obispo
County Family-Friendly Workplaces award, reflecting
her dedication to fostering a balanced, supportive
work environment.
In 2023, Johnson was elected President of the California
Airports Council, making her the youngest
airport director in California to assume this role. She
also leads as President of the Southwest Chapter of
AAAE, contributing to policy, professional excellence,
and collaboration across the southwestern U.S. Her
involvement in numerous committees within AAAE-including
the ACT Steering Group, DEI initiatives, and the
PFAS Working Group-demonstrates her commitment
to advancing airport operations and sustainability.
Johnson's goal is to leave a legacy of inclusivity, innovation,
and empowerment in aviation. Her leadership
not only strengthens her organization but also inspires
the next generation of industry leaders, emphasizing
that diversity, balanced work-life integration, and opportunity
are the cornerstones of a thriving aviation
community.
www.AviationPros.com/55135387
Hometown:
Bel Air, Md
Alma Mater:
Drexel University
Age: 32
Kirsten Kennedy, PE
Project Manager, Aviation Michael Baker International
Kirsten Kennedy has made significant strides in the
aviation industry with her passion for designing projects
that prioritize constructability and operational
efficiency. A licensed professional engineer, Kennedy
is known for delivering high-quality, cost-effective
projects, ensuring the best value for her clients.
" The aviation industry is fast-paced and exciting.
It's one of the coolest industries, especially within
civil engineering, " she said. " I am both a user of
airports. I love traveling and seeing the world and
then I love getting to help people do that and make
sure airports are safe. "
Kennedy's role in the industry extends beyond her
technical expertise. She actively participates in
several professional organizations, including the
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), Women's
Transportation Seminar (WTS), the American
Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), and the
Airport Consultants Council (ACC). Her leadership
positions, most notably as president of the ASCE
Philadelphia Younger Members Forum, highlight
20 \ AIRPORT BUSINESS / NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024
her
commitment
to industry
engagement and mentorship of
early-career professionals.
Watch a video
with Kirsten
Kennedy
Throughout her career, Kennedy
has led high-profile projects like
the Atlantic City Airport Apron
Improvement and NJDOT Multimodal
On-Call contracts. She is also known for her
expertise in pavement design, having specialized in
both military and commercial projects. Additionally,
her work on trenchless pipe design showcased her
ability to manage complex engineering challenges.
In recognition of her contributions to the field, Kennedy
was honored as the 2024 ASCE Philadelphia
Young Civil Engineer of the Year and received the
2021 ASCE Region 2 Diversity & Inclusion Award.
Her dedication to professional growth, combined
with her technical prowess, makes her a standout
in the aviation industry.
www.AviationPros.com/55135410
http://www.AviationPros.com/55135387 http://www.AviationPros.com/55242798 http://www.AviationPros.com/55135410
novemberdecember2024

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of novemberdecember2024
