junejuly2024 - 34

Ground Support Spotlight
Spotlight on:
Ozgur Yesiltepe
BY JOSH SMITH
Ground Support Worldwide:
What attracted you to a career in
the ground support industry?
Ozgur Yesiltepe: I was initially
drawn to the ground support industry
due to its dynamic nature and
the critical role it plays in ensuring
the smooth operation of air travel.
The idea of being part of a team
that facilitates the safe and efficient
movement of aircraft fascinated me.
GSW: What has kept you engaged
in the industry?
OY: The ever-evolving nature of the
ground support industry has kept
me engaged throughout my career.
Every day brings new challenges
and opportunities for innovation,
whether it's adopting new technologies
or finding more efficient ways to
handle operations. Additionally, the
camaraderie among colleagues and
the sense of pride in contributing to
the seamless functioning of air travel
have been major motivators.
In my current role as head of
NextGen GHS, it is very exciting to
be leading its expansion from our
initial locations in Billings, Montana
(BIL) and Providence, Rhode
Island (PVD) to adding operations
in Austin, Texas (AUS); Portland,
Oregon (PDX); Richmond, Virginia
(RIC); and Seattle, Washington (SEA)
to provide a range of ground handling
services at those airports.
GSW: What's the best advice
you've been given while working in
this field?
OY: The best advice I've received is
to prioritize safety above all else.
In an industry where precision and
efficiency are paramount, ensuring
the safety of personnel and those
aboard the aircraft should always
be the top priority.
GSW: How have you seen the
ground support industry change the
most during your career? Has this
change been to the benefit or detriment
of the industry?
OY: One significant change I've
witnessed is the rapid integration
of technology into ground support
operations. Automation, data
analytics and advanced equipment
have transformed the way tasks
are performed, leading to increased
efficiency and productivity. Overall,
these changes have been beneficial
to the industry, allowing for
smoother operations and improved
safety standards.
GSW: What's the next big thing
coming to the ground support
industry? What type of an impact
will it make?
OY: The next big development in
the ground support industry is
likely to be further advancements
in sustainability and environmental
stewardship. With a growing emphasis
on reducing carbon emissions
and environmental impact, we can
expect to see innovations in electric
ground support equipment, renewable
energy sources, and eco-friendly
materials. This shift towards
sustainability will not only benefit
the environment but also enhance
operational efficiency and reduce
operating costs in the long run.
GSW: What would you say to
encourage someone to join the
ground support industry?
OY: I would encourage anyone
considering a career in the ground
support industry to embrace the
34 || Ground Support Worldwide || June/July 2024
Job Title: President
Company: NextGen Ground
Handling Services
Location: Orlando, FL
Years of Experience in Ground
Support: 29
Years with Current Company: 2
Previous Employers in the
Industry: Various ground handling
companies
dynamic and rewarding nature of
the work. It offers a unique blend
of hands-on experience, technical
expertise and teamwork, making it
an exciting and fulfilling field to be
a part of. The opportunity to play
a crucial role in the functioning of
air travel, coupled with continuous
learning and growth opportunities,
makes it an excellent choice for
those seeking a challenging and
rewarding career path.
GSW: Any additional comments?
OY: I believe that the ground
support industry holds immense
potential for innovation and
growth, particularly as we navigate
the challenges and opportunities
presented by a rapidly evolving
aviation landscape. By staying
adaptable, embracing change and
prioritizing safety and sustainability,
we can continue to drive positive
advancements in the industry while
ensuring a seamless travel experience
for passengers worldwide.
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