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ADMIN • AEROSPACE • AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE • ASTRONAUTS • AVIONICS • CUSTOMER SERVICE • ENGINEERING • FLIGHT CREW • MECHANICS • PILOTS • SCIENTISTS • TECHNICAL OPERATIONS CONVENTION ISSUE AUGUST 2016 ORGANIZATION OF BLACK AEROSPACE PROFESSIONALS Celebrating 40 Years of Empowering Our Youth Furthering the training of current pilots and instilling the love of aviation in future generations of aerospace professionals since 1976 Welcome to the 40th Annual Convention and Career Exposition!

Celebrating 40 Years of Empowering Our Youth

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Page 1: Celebrating 40 Years of Empowering Our Youth

ADMIN • AEROSPACE • AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE • ASTRONAUTS • AVIONICS • CUSTOMER SERVICE • ENGINEERING • FLIGHT CREW • MECHANICS • PILOTS • SCIENTISTS • TECHNICAL OPERATIONS

CONVENTION ISSUE

AUGUST 2016ORGANIZATION OF BLACK AEROSPACE PROFESSIONALS

Celebrating40 Years ofEmpoweringOur YouthFurthering the training of current pilots and instilling the love of aviation in future generations of aerospace professionals since 1976

Welcom

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40th

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EVERYTHING ELSE.

TAKING OFF 5,000 TIMES A DAY. TAKING ON

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Aerospace Professional News Magazine

Publication of the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals

August 2016 Convention Edition

This year we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the founding of our organization. Founded in 1976 as the Organization of Black Airline Pilots, Inc. with a mission to enhance, advance and promote educational opportunities in aerospace and to develop and sustain a process for mentoring of youth from cradle to career, the Organization and its Founders have much to be proud of.

Today, OBAP has awarded $4.8 million in scholarships to more than 470 diverse recipients. Through its Aerospace Professionals in Schools (APIS) program, which was established to introduce the limitless opportunities available through careers in aerospace and aviation to elementary, middle school and high school aged students, OBAP has engaged more than 500,000 students since 1992.

OBAP’s Aviation Career Education (ACE) Academy, a week-long summer camp held in 30 locations, including Puerto Rico and St. Croix each year, has engaged more than 30,000 youth since 1992. Through its Solo Flight Academy, a two-week submersion in aviation training for young adults ages 16-19, designed to deepen exposure to opportunities in aviation culminating in a solo flight experience, its partnership with Delta Air Lines for the airline’s annual Dream Flight, the National Flight Academy in Pensacola, FL where 100 students experience an immersive 6-day adventure on board the massive virtual aircraft AMBITION and Fly Robotics, which teaches students to assemble, program, test and fly drones, I’d say—mission accomplished.

At this year’s convention we will honor some of those early pioneers as we induct them into the OBAP Hall of Fame to acknowledge and to celebrate their role in what the Organization has become today.

We expect close to 1500 attendees at convention this year including aerospace professionals, college students, youth, and our sponsors and exhibitors who help to make it possible for us to continue the work that we do. We welcome you to the 40th Annual Convention and Career Exposition and we thank you for your support.

Lynda GrayEditorial Director

12 Are You Ready for Success in the New Industry?

16 OBAP Founders and Pioneers Hall of Fame 2016 Honorees

23 OBAP Celebrates 40 Years of Empowering Our Youth

24 Partner Profile: United States Army Black Aviation Association (USABAA)

25 Partner Profile: Bessie Coleman Aerospace Legacy

26 2016 Bessie Coleman Aerospace Legacy Honorees

33 2016 OBAP Conference Schedule

36 2016 OBAP Career Exposition Booth Map

Every precaution is taken to ensure accuracy of content, however the publishers cannot accept responsibility for the correctness of information supplied, advertised, or for any opinion expressed herein. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

Letter from the Editor

Contents

EDITORIAL DIRECTORLynda Gray

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Victor Wilcox

WEBSITEwww.obap.org

CONTACT USOrganization of Black

Aerospace Professionals National Office

1 Westbrook Center - Suite 300Westchester, IL 60154

[email protected]

4 Letter from OBAP Chairman Captain Karl Minter

7 Letter from Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner

8 Letter from Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel

11 Sponsor Thank You

30 Board of Directors Profiles

37 Speaker Profiles

42 Acknowledgements

EVERYTHING ELSE.

TAKING OFF 5,000 TIMES A DAY. TAKING ON

3OBAP AEROSPACE PROFESSIONAL NEWS

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Dear Friends, Members, and Sponsors,

On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals, I would like to personally welcome each of you to OBAP’s 40th Annual Convention and Career Exposition. Our overall theme for the conference is “40 Years of Empowering our Youth”. It is an exciting time in the aerospace industry. The Airlines are in a hiring cycle, with new aircraft and retirements… OBAP is uniquely positioned to help guide our members in employment opportunities throughout the aerospace industry. Our organization is awarding more than $200,000 in scholarships to 22 aviation professionals this year. And many of those scholarships will be presented during this year’s convention.

For aviation professionals, we have an exciting and eventful schedule, starting with our aerospace professional development series designed to strategically plan a long career, avoid pitfalls, prepare for the job hunt and learn the intricacies of the airline interview process. The career fair, brimming with more than 25 carriers and aerospace companies, will provide three days of incomparable opportunities to engage, network and ideally secure a new opportunity!

During the Founders and Pioneers breakfast on Thursday, we invite you to join us in honoring notables with inductions into the OBAP Hall of Fame. The Corporate Luncheon and Strategic Industry Symposium themed, “The Future of Diversity in the Aerospace Industry,” we will explore successful strategies that are helping to reduce aerospace professional employment shortages. The Annual Awards Gala, held the final evening of the Convention, is always the perfect opportunity to dress, dine and dance the night away.

It is estimated that the impending pilot retirements, formation of new subsectors like UAVs, and increased globalization, will create the need for more than 460,000 aviation positions by 2031. To continue forging towards our commitment to ensure the future of our industry has qualified candidates for long-term sustainability, OBAP will

implement several programs tailored to youth and young adults at this year’s convention.

Through the Collegiate Series, young adults have been invited to present abstracts on the state of the industry, network with OBAP members, engage with recruiters and participate in a professional development series to effectively prepare for a future career in aerospace.

In addition, on Thursday we will engage more than 150 youth from the Chicago Metro Area through OBAP’s Project Aerospace. A fun-filled day including workshops, a youth luncheon and demonstrations in partnership with NASA, the Marines and other industry partners will introduce the limitless possibilities of exciting careers in our industry.

We are so grateful that, year over year, attendance at our annual convention has grown, new initiatives to best serve the current needs of our members have been born, opportunities to continually honor those who paved the way have been established and invaluable partnerships with corporate partners and sponsors have been strengthened. Without your unwavering support to the organization, none of this would be possible.

Thank you for joining us as we celebrate “40 Years of Empowering our Youth”. This is a special time for OBAP, it is a positive affirmation that points directly to our mission to “Mentor our youth and provide educational opportunities for them to succeed…” Thank you for being in Chicago!

Sincerely,

Captain Karl MinterChairman, Board of DirectorsOrganization of Black Aerospace Professionals

4 OBAP AEROSPACE PROFESSIONAL NEWS

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Long after our flights have landed, we’re busy caring for the people, families, businesses, and places that make Seattle such a great place to live.

Proud to support the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals.

Committed to our communities.

Page 6: Celebrating 40 Years of Empowering Our Youth

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United States Air Force. Commissioned as a second lieutenant, you’ll enjoy many perks not

found within most Fortune 500® companies. And unlike most jobs in the private sector, you’ll be

working for something you actually believe in. AIRFORCE.COM

©20

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6 OBAP AEROSPACE PROFESSIONAL NEWS

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7OBAP AEROSPACE PROFESSIONAL NEWS

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8 OBAP AEROSPACE PROFESSIONAL NEWS

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M169497A_OBAP_Conven-tion_Journal

M169497A_OBAP_Conventional_Journal.indd

U.S. MARINES

Marines Makes History Every Day (Gen. Bolden)

OBAP Convention Journal

8.5” x 11”

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This Ad Prepared By UniWorld Group, Inc.

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Our sponsors make it possible for us to do the work that we do—and for that we thank them…

D I A M O N D

P L AT I N U M

G O L D

S I LV E R C O N T R I B U TO R

PAT R O N

S U P P O R T E R

11OBAP AEROSPACE PROFESSIONAL NEWS

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If you had your own personal career coach well versed in the tradecraft of the aviation industry to counsel you and give you the best advice for landing an interview, and potentially a job with a major airline, would you be interested? Well if so, read on and hear what hiring executives at two of the world’s largest commercial airlines have shared with OBAP members.

Patty Taylor, Manager of Pilot Selection at American Airlines, Captain Dave Tatum, DFW Chief Pilot, also of American Airlines, Susan Witt, Manager of Pilot Recruiting of United Airlines, and Bill Kennedy, Senior Manager of Pilot Hiring at United Airlines, all kindly agreed to answer a few key questions that we put to them about basic hiring practices and programs that they have put in place to address the looming pilot shortage.

According to Ms. Taylor and Captain Tatum, American Airlines fills its pilot vacancies from two sources. Approximately fifty percent of all new hire pilots come directly from their three wholly owned regional airlines: PSA, Piedmont, and Envoy. American is the only airline that offers a direct path from their regional cockpit straight to their mainline. The remaining fifty percent of new hire pilots are selected exclusively from their applicant database. Only applications submitted at http://aa.pilotcredentials.com are considered. These pilots range in experience from military aviators, to current regional airline pilots as well as many from other smaller part 121 airlines.

“When it comes to the industry’s pilot shortage everyone is speaking of, I think American Airlines is positioned very well. We have a large database of highly skilled applicants that continues to grow as American remains one of the top few choices for long term pilot positions,” said Patty Taylor.

Captain Tatum added, “Our company is continually looking for ways to create a solid career path that leads to the flight deck of an American Airlines jet. We now have our Cadet Program that partners leading universities, colleges, and flight schools with our three wholly owned regionals. With the Cadet Program, young aviators are selected early on while still students to become American Airlines pilots. They work with mentors while acquiring the needed certificates, ratings, and experience. In many cases they are actually hired by our regional and provided flight and medical benefits even long before they meet all the requirements to fly for the airline. Once they do acquire these requirements set in place by the FAA they are immediately placed into the next available regional new hire class. From that point, it is a seniority based flow through straight to American. No further interview required!”

When asked what it takes to actually land an interview at the world’s largest airline if one is not already a pilot on the AAG career path with the Cadet Program or a regional partner, Ms. Taylor responded with, “Work diligently to make yourself as competitive as possible. Keep yourself in a position where you are continually developing as a pilot and adding to your list of experiences. We gravitate toward quality individuals, pilots that not only have a lot of flight experience, but pilots that have proven records of success in positions that we know will lead to success on our team. Continue to update your online application anytime things change. We recommend frequent flight time updates as well as any unique experience that may bring value to your candidacy.”

Captain Tatum added, “We have an enormous responsibility in selecting only the best aviators in the industry. These are key employees that are essential in our commitment to delivering the safest, most reliable product to our customers. We are confident we will continue to achieve this both with the system that has been built within American Airlines Pilot Recruitment, as well as the career path initiatives and regional flow through arrangements we have.”

In addition to pilot recruiting and career path programs, American Airlines has recently brought back the pilot internship program. With this program, aviation students at participating universities are offered the opportunity to work in various capacities at American Airlines to gain exposure to the airline operations, its culture, and to network with others within.

In 2017, American Airlines will award six type rating scholarships to some very talented, aspiring aviators. These scholarships will be presented during national conventions, such as OBAP’s in Chicago. American has also committed to awarding a total of $15,000 in educational scholarships in 2017 to collegiate aviators.

Captain Tatum closed with, “If you are in the early stages of this journey, and your ultimate career goal is to be an American Airlines pilot, there is no better place to develop and position yourself for a long successful career than with our regional partners at PSA, Piedmont, and Envoy. This was a key ingredient in my personal journey to AA, and if I had to do it all over again, I would do it exactly the same way. The opportunity I was afforded while flying for our regional carrier paved the way for the opportunity that I get to enjoy every day now as a Captain for the world’s largest airline.”

“We will continue to select the most qualified candidates from our online database for interviews as pilot hiring is forecasted

(continued on page 15)

Are You Ready for Success in the New Industry?The top companies are looking for the exceptional.

12 OBAP AEROSPACE PROFESSIONAL NEWS

Page 13: Celebrating 40 Years of Empowering Our Youth

“ Prepare to become a leader. We are hiring pilots, but eventually they will become the captains of our airlines. ”

Page 14: Celebrating 40 Years of Empowering Our Youth

KEEP SOARING TO NEW HEIGHTS.JetBlue is a proud supporter of the Organization of BlackAerospace Professionals.

Page 15: Celebrating 40 Years of Empowering Our Youth

Are You Ready for Success in the New Industry? (continued)

to continue for many years. If this is your avenue to American, I encourage you to stay persistent with your efforts to gain experience and keep your online application current and updated. We truly look forward to seeing you soon,” concluded Ms. Taylor.

Susan Witt and Bill Kennedy at United Airlines gave us insight into their strategies for contending with changes within the industry.

Bill noted that the retirement issue for all the carriers, even down to the regionals, is huge. “Basically, for the next fifteen years including the year we’re in, we’ll have to replace 8,300 pilots at United. If you stretch that out to twenty years, it’s somewhat over 10,000 which is almost our entire pilot seniority list,” he said.

Susan Witt commented that, “It’s not just pilots, but also our mechanics, what we call “Tech Ops, who are going to be in demand because of the retirement issue.”

When asked how they’ll meet the pilot demand, Bill told us, “So far, we haven’t had to do any active recruiting, but we’ve studied the trends and know that there’s going to be a significant shortage of qualified pilots. So, to that end, United Airlines has been doing some really creative things to reach out and conduct recruiting efforts that may

not bear fruit tomorrow, but down the road could put us in a good place as far as having a flow of talent to our flight decks.”

“Last year we conducted several webinars, and we reached out to various organizations, the military, family and friends, and also our regional carriers. We also had the great honor and privilege of being invited to Andrews Air Force Base where we were able to visit with individuals from the 89th Airlift Wing and do some recruiting,” said Susan about these programs. “We’re planning some different events this year that may involve some external recruiting, family members of pilots, and partnering with our internal Tech Ops organization and Inflight Services, where we may host a large recruiting event for United Airlines.” She also explained that they are creating career path programs with some regional partners such as Commute Air and Express Jet Airlines.

“We are looking forward to the career path program where we will be interviewing pilots for these carriers with potential opportunities of selecting some of their pilots for United Airlines in the future,” she added. “We are also going to be visiting universities and middle schools to reach down and create mentorship programs with our pilots. Previously we were very fortunate in that pilots in the community came to us. We realize we have a responsibility to help our regional carriers with the pilot supply demand. What we need to do now is to build bench strength for the future.”

In answer to our question about how OBAP members can prepare for careers within the United Airlines organization, both Bill and Susan had a number of suggestions.

“Bill and I always encourage your members to take full advantage, certainly while there, but even beyond, of the workshops, any internal programs and the outstanding mentoring that takes place at OBAP,” said Susan. “Yours is one organization that should pride itself in the mentoring that you do—it is significant and impactful.”

She went on to add that aspiring pilots should attend the industry conferences and meet with other airline personnel to better understand the fit and demands of the industry as well as that of the particular company. She explained that sometimes individuals get the “bright, shiny eyes” but really don’t understand if the culture and the fit are right for them.

Susan continued to say, “Prepare to become a leader. We are hiring pilots, but eventually they will become the captains of our airlines, so do what it takes to be a leader.” She emphasized that applicants should be prepared to focus on the attributes and actions that model character, foster teamwork and deliver results. “Certainly pilots should be thinking strategically and more importantly, how their actions impact others. That’s one area that individuals may not understand, and that’s a significant area that we focus on during the interview process.”

Bill brought up another point that was usually addressed at the welcome ceremony for each class of new hire pilots, “You’re here now, you’ve grabbed the brass ring, you need to be a safe aviator and you also need to give back. Whether it’s giving back to the community, to the company, or to your union—give back. Basically it’s time to become involved.”

Some other tips that Susan Witt and Bill Kennedy wanted to pass along were to market yourself, set yourself apart from others and make yourself memorable. What can you do that’s different in a leadership capacity? They emphasized that you can lead without positional authority, that pilots should ask themselves if they are doing something different above and beyond flying an airplane.

To sum up, Susan said she advised pilots, indeed all applicants to do three things:

1. Work hard—you need to earn the right for an interview. You can’t just stand in line at a career fair and say, ”Here’s my resume.”

2. Earn the right for the job offer—stand out from the crowd.

3. Once you have the job, prove why you should stay.

As Susan put it, “We’re not just looking for the average at United Airlines, we’re looking for the exceptional.”

“The opportunity I was afforded while flying for our regional carrier paved the way for the opportunity that I get to enjoy every day now as a Captain for the world’s largest airline. ”

15OBAP AEROSPACE PROFESSIONAL NEWS

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The 2016 Hall of Fame Honorees are all founding members or early contributors to the formation of the Organization of Black Airline Pilots, Inc., the organization from which the

Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals, Inc. evolved.

Through adversity, these men created the mission, vision and foundation for the programs, educational opportunities and professional development its members experience today.

Their roots are broad and deep—an immigrant who left his home country to pursue the American dream, four military combat pilots who served their country during the Vietnam war, including the first black Naval Aviator to fly 100 combat missions, but they all share a common

thread, their passion and love of flying.

The Organization is what it is today because of the contributions of these men. We salute them and we are proud to present the 2016 Hall of Fame Honorees.

Benjamin Franklin Thomas

Captain William C. Rand

Captain Raymond Dothard

Captain Simon Patrick Gaskill

Captain J. Georges Sulmers

Captain Oscar Perry

Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals

Presents the

2016 Hall of Fame Honorees

16 OBAP AEROSPACE PROFESSIONAL NEWS

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When Benjamin Franklin Thomas was a child, he made airplanes out of paper and old handkerchiefs to make parachutes, little did he realize that he would take to the skies as an aviator.

Thomas attended the US Naval Academy, class of 1964. Each summer, all Midshipmen were introduced to the many aspects of Naval service. They spent time on various Naval vessels, including aircraft carriers and submarines. During the summer of 1963, Thomas spent time at Naval Air Station Sanford in Sanford, Florida. One day, he climbed into the cockpit of a F-8 Crusader and one of his classmates took a Polaroid photo of him. He kept that photo on his desk during his senior year. It was a daily reminder to him that he “looked good” in a fighter aircraft.

In February 1964, all senior Midshipmen had to declare a singular choice as to what aspect of the Navy they would serve. Although his heart was with the Marine Corps, he chose Navy Air. Initially, Thomas was in the Prop Pipeline. He was assigned to Naval Air Station Corpus Christi for advance training. He submitted a “dream sheet” to fly carrier based fighter aircraft. He was reassigned to NAS Kingsville, Texas for advance jet training.

Upon completion of flight training, Thomas was assigned to the Replacement Air Group, NAS Lemoore, California and joined the Attack Squadron Twenty-Three, flying the Douglas A-4 Skyhawk. Thomas was deployed twice to the Gulf of Tonkin flying combat missions over North Vietnam and Laos.

Upon leaving the Navy, Thomas joined United Airlines in 1970. After being furloughed later that year, Thomas was hired by Eastern Airlines where he remained until 1991 when Eastern collapsed, then Continental Airlines where he was assigned to Continental Micronesia flying out of Guam until 2000.

Thomas was the first black varsity basketball player in the US Naval Academy, the first black naval aviator to fly 100 combat missions and the first black naval aviator to eject from a jet aircraft.

He is a member of the Caterpillar Club, a member, of Frontiers International, Inc., Annapolis, Maryland Chapter, Chairman of the Human Relations Commission, Anne Arundel County, Maryland, Founder and President of the Organization of Black Airline Pilots, Inc. (currently, the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals, Inc.).

Benjamin F. Thomas OBAP Founder and Pioneer

17OBAP AEROSPACE PROFESSIONAL NEWS

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William C. Rand was born in Texarkana, Texas. After attending Texas Southern University, he joined the United States Air Force. Rand applied and was accepted into Aviation Cadet training, graduating in 1962 with a commission as a Second Lieutenant. After additional training, he served as a B-52 Navigator/Electronics Warfare Officer for four years, then was accepted into undergraduate pilot training.

Upon graduation, Rand was assigned to the C-141 Starlifter, flying passengers and cargo worldwide. In 1968, he transitioned to the OV-10 Bronco for combat in Vietnam, where he served as an OV-10 Forward Air Controller/Air Liaison Officer, attached to the United States Army’s Americal Division, stationed in Chu Lai, RVN.

Rand separated from the Active Air Force in 1972 to pursue a career in commercial aviation, but remained active in the Air Force Reserve, retiring in 1984 as a Lieutenant Colonel. Immediately upon active Air Force separation in May 1972, he was hired by Western Airlines

where he was the fifth pilot of African American descent to work for the company. Western merged into Delta Air Lines in 1987, where he remained until the mandatory retirement age of 60 in 2001.

During Rand’s tenure at both Western and Delta, he flew every aircraft within the combined fleets, with the exception of the MD-88 and the MD-11, and was a check airman on the B-757 and B-767. Rand retired from Delta in January as an international captain, flying the Boeing 767-300ER from the JFK base.

After a successful career in aviation which spanned almost 40 years, Rand and his wife are enjoying retirement. They still travel extensively and divide their time between homes in Oakland, California, Incline Village, Nevada and Savannah, Georgia. While the aviation industry has been very good for his family, Rand’s two adult children are successfully following career paths outside of aviation.

William C. Rand OBAP Founder and Pioneer

18 OBAP AEROSPACE PROFESSIONAL NEWS

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Raymond Dothard graduated form Tuskegee Institute in 1964 with a degree in Chemistry and a commission in the United States Air Force. While attending Tuskegee, he was taught to fly in the Flight Instruction Program facilitated by C. Alfred “Chief” Anderson.

Dothard completed USAF pilot training in February 1966. He flew a combat tour in Vietnam in F4C’s from September 1966 to June 1967. Dothard departed the Air Force in January 1971 and joined Eastern Airlines as a pilot. He was an Eastern Airlines flight officer from January 1971 to June 1989. Dothard became a captain for Trump Shuttle in June of1989 until April 1992. He went on to fly as a captain for US Airways in April 1992 until December 2001.

Military flying expanded from November 1964 until September 1992. This included

six and a half years with the active Air Force and the remainder with the Air National Guard. Over a 27 year period some of the military fighter jets he flew were F4c, F102, F101, F106 and F16.

Some leadership positions held by Dothard included Check Airman, Chief Pilot, US Airways, Squadron Commander and State Director of Operations for the New Jersey Air National Guard. He recalls one of the highlights of his career as a captain for Trump Shuttle, he flew the seven- day Nelson Mandela Freedom Charter in June 1990.

Dothard has been an avid supporter of OBAP from the beginning. He has served as a member and chairman of the Board of Directors.

Raymond Dothard OBAP Founder and Pioneer

19OBAP AEROSPACE PROFESSIONAL NEWS

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Simon Patrick Gaskill graduated from the Agricultural and Technical College of North Carolina in 1965 with a major in Psychology and as a member of the United States Air Force Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program. While attending A&T in Greensboro, he became very active in the civil rights movement during the lunch counter sit-ins.

As the war in Vietnam escalated Simon proudly piloted the OV-10 aircraft, serving with the Rustic Forward Air Controllers in Southeast Asia and was one of America’s first African American B-52 pilots attaining the rank of Captain.

In the summer of 1970, Simon was hired by Eastern Airlines, joining a handful of African American commercial airline pilots. During his career with Eastern, he and fellow African American pilots formed the Organization of Black Airline Pilots where he served in several positions, including time spent at the youth summer camp in Tuskegee, Alabama.

While living in New York, Simon served as a mentor to college youth with the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE). After his retirement from Eastern Airlines, he

became a member of the distinguished Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. – Virginia Tidewater Chapter, Board Member Youth Program, Rustic Forward Air Controllers and the Denbigh American Legion Post #368. He worked for Senator Max Cleland of Georgia as Veteran Affairs representative and was hired as Scout Reach Executive with the Colonial Virginia Boy Scout Council.

Simon’s volunteer work included Hampton, Virginia Military Affairs Committee, Y.H. Thomas Community Center, president of the Aggie Alumnus Williamsburg/Peninsula Chapter, NCA&T State University Booster Club, Little League baseball coach and coach of the undefeated Saints Peter and Paul School basketball team.

Simon was a faithful member of Saint Vincent de Paul Church in Newport News, Virginia where he served on the Parish Council, member of Knights of Peter Claver and was a Parish Lector. In 2006, he tossed his hat in the ring for the Hampton City Council. Simon enjoyed acting in stage productions, TV series and commercials. He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Ree and children, Crystal, Simon and Nia.

Simon Patrick Gaskill OBAP Founder and Pioneer

20 OBAP AEROSPACE PROFESSIONAL NEWS

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J. Georges Sulmers was born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti August 28,1946. He immigrated to the United States on December 29,1957. Sulmers attended Aviation High School in Queens, New York City from September 1961 and graduated in June of 1965. He learned to fly while in high school and earned his private pilot’s license in April of 1965. Sulmers applied to be a pilot with United Airlines in June 1965, shortly after graduation from high school. At that time they were hiring pilots with no licenses.

After not gaining employment with United Airlines, Sulmers enrolled at the City Community College in New York City to study mechanical engineering. One year later, he transferred to Miami Dade Junior College to complete his flight training and obtained his commercial pilot, instrument, multi-engine and certificated flight instructor pilot’s licenses.

Sulmers applied and was accepted as an airline pilot with Northeast Airlines, Inc. on September 3, 1968. He was the youngest of thirty-three pilots in that new-hire class at age

twenty-two. He was furloughed at Northeast Airlines in January 1970. Later, in July 1970, Sulmers applied and was accepted as a pilot, second officer at Eastern Airlines, Inc. where he remained until March 3, 1989. He ended his tenure as a captain after nineteen and a half years during Eastern’s turbulent years. He did not return to Eastern Airlines during the recall. Instead, he applied and was accepted as a pilot, second officer with United Airlines, Inc. where he remained and retired as a captain in August 2006.

Sulmers feels that the aviation industry and the airlines he worked for were good to him and his family. It allowed him to educate his children in some of the top universities in the country. Some, he remembers when growing up he was told, he could not attend. As a family, the Sulmers’ have traveled to parts of the world where it would have been unimaginable to visit during his growing years. He was able to do this while receiving good compensation for doing something he loved.

J. Georges “Paco” Sulmers OBAP Founder and Pioneer

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Oscar Perry OBAP Founder and Pioneer

Oscar Perry was born in Newark New Jersey April 23,1946. He graduated from South Side High School in 1964 and Bloomfield College in 1968 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics. In September of that year, Perry joined the Navy in Pensacola, Florida. He received his wings in 1969 and proceeded to North Island, San Diego where he became an aircraft carrier commander on E1B flying aboard the US Ticonderoga.

Perry began his commercial pilot career as a First Officer flying the B727 for National Airlines in October 1973. He also flew the DC10. National merged with Pan American World Airways in 1980 where he flew the B727, A-300 and B747. When Pan Am closed its business in 1991, Perry, still a First Officer, moved to American Trans Air flying the B757 in February of 1992.

Perry became a Captain on the B727 and then the B757. He was a supervisory check captain on the B757 and had ratings on the B727, B757, B767 and the B747.

Perry retired in April of 2006. He recalls his most memorable flight, when he flew Senator Barack Hussein Obama from Los Angeles to Chicago’s Midway Airport and their conversation in the jetway as he deplaned. Perry is a Founder of the Organization of Black Airline Pilots.

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The Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals Celebrates 40 Years of Empowering Our Youth

In 1976, thirty-two pilots met in Chicago to create an organization that would forward the cause of black commercial pilots. It was their third attempt to found an association that had three main goals in mind.

The first objective was to create a forum where minority pilots could share information about hiring practices, employer expectations, and prejudicial treatment within the commercial airline industry. It was important to the future of pilots who were currently employed, and to those who wished to be employed by the airlines, to be able to connect with other flight crewmembers.

This was well before the rise of the global internet, the mobile phone, and even before the once ubiquitous fax machine. All communications were conducted by phone, mail or face-to-face. A central clearing house of ideas, tips, and strategies had to be constructed that could be used by pilots and candidates to help them navigate the slow-to-change commercial pilot labor market. Even after court battles (one case proceeded all the way to the Supreme Court, others to federal courts) there was under-representation of black pilots within the airlines.

The second goal of the organization was to overcome the often-heard complaint of hiring managers, ”We can’t find qualified applicants!” The founders of this forward-thinking group saw the need for social networking before the term was even coined. They envisioned a fellowship of pilots who could stay in touch with colleagues and share news of employment opportunities.

The third mission of this fledgling association was to reach out to black youth, to introduce them to the world of commercial aviation.

The number of friends and family of white pilots in 1976 was not very large, but in the black community it was very limited. Young people naturally learn about professional choices and options from their relatives or the parents of their schoolmates. But how many youngsters had even seen a black pilot in the mid 70’s?

According to Captain Clovis Jones, the current youth programs that are a major part of OBAP’s legacy to future generations of aerospace professionals started out as a way to introduce the idea to black children in grade school that they could become pilots.

OBAP was founded as the Organization of Black Airline Pilots. Initial programs such as Pilots in the Schools expanded and became Aerospace Professionals in Schools.

“In California and South Carolina you had pilots in full uniform, who routinely went to various schools throughout those states and shared the history of black aviators and presented themselves as black professional pilots,” shared Captain Clovis Jones. “One of the teaching tools that was used in the late 70’s, early 80’s, was the Willa Brown story.”

Willa Brown was not only the first African American woman to earn a pilot’s license; she was the first woman in the United States to have both a pilot’s license and a mechanic’s license. She lobbied the government for integration of black pilots into the Army Air Corps and the federal Civilian Pilot Training Program (CPTP), which at the time were segregated. Brown became the coordinator for the CPTP in Chicago and later her flight school was selected by the U.S. Army to provide black trainees for the Air Corps pilot training program at the Tuskegee Institute.

According to Captain Jones, “Her example of being an engineer by training, a pilot, and an advocate made her a role model. Because at the time, the thinking still was, ‘oh girls can’t do this and girls can’t do that,’ but here’s a woman who excelled in a predominately male profession. One of the tools we used in the early days was a taped recording of her story and we would present it in grades one through six.”

The Aviation Classroom Experience is ongoing and has been furthered by OBAP through strategic partnerships with carriers and corporate entities nationwide. In 2013, Wooddale High School in Memphis was outfitted with a National Flight Academy (NFA) Aviation Classroom Experience through contributions from OBAP, TEQGames and FedEx Express. In early 2015, OBAP and FedEx Express again partnered to donate a Boeing 727 engine to Ben C. Rain High School’s Aviation and Aerospace Academy in Mobile, Alabama.

“The Summer Flight Academy, or as we now call it, the Solo Flight Academy, was supported by OBAP, but originally run by the Negro Airmen International at Tuskegee. We would sponsor students or provide scholarships for their Summer Flight Academy program,” said Captain Jones. “Then OBAP decided to run its own program and Albert Glenn took over running the Academy for ten years, from about the late eighties to the late nineties.”

ACE Academies or as it was first known, ACE Camp, was started by a judge in Virginia who wanted to show students that there was a practical reason for theoretical studies in the STEM disciplines, in this case using aviation as a way to stimulate students’ love of learning. Now OBAP has broadened the scope of ACE Academies to create the newest of their student outreach programs, formalizing a longstanding partnership with the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA). This partnership provides youth and adults with opportunities to initiate or increase their participation in full-scale or model aviation.

In 2015, OBAP and the AMA, in partnership with Fly Robotics, implemented small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS) training in Memphis and Mobile to teach students to assemble, program, conduct testing and fly small drones. This hands-on program reinforces OBAP’s objective to further the training of current pilots and instill the love of aviation in future generations of aerospace professionals.

COVER STORY

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In 1982, CW3 (Ret.) George T. Johnson had a dream that significant historical accomplishments of Black Aviators was not recognized or recorded history. His vision was realized in the summer of 1983 when the 26 Charter Members met in Wichita, KS to form what is now known as the United States Army Black Aviation Association (USABAA). Today USABAA welcomes both active military and retired members along with associate membership from sponsors and friends. George Johnson passed last year and will be missed by many—but his legacy lives on.

USABAA is dedicated to providing the latest aviation information to our membership and interested young people with aspirations of acquiring aviation knowledge and training. We encourage open communication between Aviators and other aviation specialties of the Active Army, Army Reserve, Army National Guard and Retired Communities. In addition, we encourage and solicit two-way communications in support of other aviation organizations throughout the country.

Another of our primary goals is to increase our scholarship fund for youth education. More information regarding USABAA can be found on our website: www.usabaa.net

USABAA is dedicated to providing the latest aviation information to our membership and interested young people with aspirations of acquiring aviation knowledge and training.

24 OBAP AEROSPACE PROFESSIONAL NEWS

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Southwest® is a proud sponsor of the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals.

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Captain Nicole Alicea

The Bessie Coleman Aerospace Legacy, Inc. (BCAL) is a nonprofit organization, with a mission to ensure that the legacy of Bessie Coleman and her contributions to aviation continue. BCAL is dedicated to ensuring that the next generations of African-Americans know that aerospace is a career option and as a result are proud of this legacy. This organization is very active in many states and communities assisting young students with scholarships and essay writing opportunities.

This event joins the heart and minds of BCAL and the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP) working together to further celebrate and advance the involvement and success of women of color and others in the aerospace industry. BCAL and OBAP’s collaborative efforts include participation and support of the BCAL’s Scholarships and Leadership programs.

Members of BCAL include African-American female pilots, aircraft mechanics, astronauts, air traffic controllers, aviation attorneys and other aeronautical careers and interests. In January of each year BCAL offers scholarships to students at Paxon High School in Jacksonville, Florida. This school was originally Paxon Airfield, the last place Bessie Coleman flew before her demise. Additionally, in April of each year BCAL offers an essay contest at the Bessie Coleman Library in Chicago, Illinois, two college scholarships at the BCAL Fly-Sister-Fly Empowerment Breakfast, which is held in conjunction with the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals Annual Convention and Career Expo where we honor women in the industry who have contributed outstanding achievements, and at our Eleanor Williams Breakfast at the National Black Coalition of Federal Aviation Employees (NBCFAE) conference.

“ The air is the only place free from prejudices.”—Bessie Coleman (1892–1926)

BCAL is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization based

in Washington, DC.

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Moriah Graham is a graduate of the Polytech High School Aerospace Science shop. She completed her studies with a GPA of 3.8 earning a Diploma, Technical Degree in Aeronautical Science and a Minor in English. Within the Aeronautical Program, Moriah selected the career path of Flight and became the first African American female to earn her private pilot’s license while still in high school and the youngest black female pilot ever recorded in Delaware. Please note that others took flight instructions, but she is the first to complete and receive her private pilots license.

Moriah Graham 2016 Youth Aviation Achievement Award

2016 Bessie Coleman Aerospace Legacy Honoree

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2016 Bessie Coleman Aerospace Legacy Honoree

Casey Grant hails from a military family, starting school in England, living in Tripoli, and finally settling in Illinois. Casey learned from her parents the love of flying and seeing the world at a young age. She later became one of the first African American stewardesses for Delta Air Lines and flew for thirty-five years with Delta. Ms. Grant graduated from Harrington College of Design in Chicago and opened her own design business—ECG Design Interiors. She hosts The Fly Girl Show on blogtalkradio.com/TheFlyGirl10. Ms. Grant gives back to her community through social service organizations, enjoys traveling the globe, reading good books, and socializing with family and friends. Stars in the Sky, which chronicles the struggles and triumphs of the first African Americans to join the airline industry, is her first book.

Casey Grant 2016 Honoree

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2016 Bessie Coleman Aerospace Legacy Honoree

In 1983, Luanne Wills-Merrell began working as a General Aviation Safety Inspector at the FAA DuPage Flight Standards District Office (DPA FSDO) in West Chicago, Illinois. She returned to DPA FSDO as the Manager in 2001, exactly 17 years to the day after she began her FAA career in that office. Luanne holds a unique place in history, because she was the first African American Female to hold the position of a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Flight Standards Aviation Safety Inspector.

While in Oklahoma, Luanne attended night school and became a certificated Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic. Over the past 32 years, Luanne received several awards and

honors including the Secretary of Transportation’s “EEO/Affirmative Action Award” for her work on the Aviation Safety Diversity and Inclusion Plan, the FAA Flight Standards “Innovations in Cultural Diversity Award”, and the “Manager’s Award for EEO” from the National Black Coalition of Federal Aviation Employees (NBCFAE). The “LUANN” intersection on Victor 171 was named in her honor.

Under Luanne’s leadership, FAA DuPage FSDO got national recognition as the “2011 Flight Standards Field Office of the Year”, and in 2009 the FSDO received the National Air Transport Association’s “FAA Customer Service Excellence Award”.

Luanne Wills-Merrell 2016 Honoree

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29OBAP AEROSPACE PROFESSIONAL NEWS

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Board Of Directors and OBAP Leadership Team

OBAP PROFESSIONAL STAFF AND REGIONAL LEADERSHIP

First Officer Marcus NeyorDelta Air LinesSoutheast Region DirectorMembership Committee

Captain Shawn SamuelsUnited AirlinesNortheast Region DirectorMembership Committee

First Officer Xavier SamuelsUnited AirlinesSouthwest Region DirectorMembership Committee

First Officer Stephanie JohnsonDelta Air LinesMidwest Region DirectorMembership Committee

First Officer Thomas WittsAlaska AirlinesWest Region DirectorMembership Committee

Ms. Hermon “Gabby” HewittMembership Committee

First Officer Jeff LaneDelta Air LinesNational Director – ACE Academies

Bernard “Jamie” JamesonAmerican AirlinesChair – Professional Pilot Development Program

First Officer Malik BrooksFedEx ExpressChair – Scholarship

First Officer Jeff HarrisonUPS AirlinesNational Director – Flight Academies

First Officer Randall RochonUnited AirlinesSecretary

First Officer Jelani KelleyFedEx ExpressAssistant SecretaryMarketing and Communications Committee

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Captain Karl MinterUnited AirlinesBoard of DirectorsChair

Mrs. Carole Hopson Board of DirectorsVice Chair

Ms. Linda CarterBoard of DirectorsChair – Human Resources Consultant

Captain Ernest N. Taylor, Jr. Delta Air LinesBoard of Directors – Special Projects

Captain Arnold J. Tolbert American Airlines (Retired)Board of DirectorsChair – Membership CommitteeFlorida Memorial UniversityDirector – Department of Aviation

Captain Robert Brown UPS Airlines (Retired)Board of DirectorsChair – Emeritus

Mr. Grant Walker, Jr. Wings Financial Credit UnionBoard of DirectorsChair – Convention & Marketing CommitteeVice President – Business Development

BOARD OF ADVISORS

Captain James GordonUPS AirlinesChair – Board of Advisors

Captain Albert GlennFedEx ExpressBoard of Advisors

Mrs. Mamie MalloryFAABoard of Advisors

Mrs. Vanessa Blacknall-JamisonFAABoard of Advisors

Captain Jim GormanL3 ConsultantBoard of Advisors

Captain Houston MillsUPS AirlinesBoard of Advisors

General Harold MitchellUS Air Force (Retired)Board of Advisors

Norma ClaytonThe Boeing CompanyBoard of Advisors

Dr. Aprille EricssonNASABoard of Advisors

Mr. Gregory JonesUnited AirlinesBoard of Advisors

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Captain Karl MinterUnited Airlines

Board of Directors Chair

Captain Karl Minter is a B-767 Captain for United Airlines with over 20,000 hours of flying experience. Capt Minter is Chairman of the Organization of Black

Aerospace Professionals (OBAP), a 501(3c) non-profit organization. Captain Minter is also a retired Lt Colonel, with 26 years’ service in the United States Air Force Reserve, serving in multiple assignment’s to include HQ USAF, DCS Plans and Programs, and the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD), Executive Support Center at the Pentagon. Captain Minter is an Aviation Subject Matter Expert (SME) with Aircraft Accident Investigation Credentials. He is an Engaged Community Leader, and a Member of the Board of Trustees, Tuskegee University, and he is also a Board Member for the Friends of Tuskegee National Historic Site (FTANHS). Capt Minter consults with Industry on Next Generation Technologies, Training, Mentoring, and Human Capital Development.

Captain Minter is originally from St. Albans Queens, NY. He has been involved in aviation for the last 41years. He has a BS from Embry-Riddle University, and a MBA (Honors Graduate), Regis University. He has worked for Sikorsky Aircraft Company in Stratford CT, as a Flight Test Engineer prior to becoming a pilot in the United States Air force. Capt Minter flew C-141B “Star-lifters” both at McGuire AFB, N.J., and Andrews AFB, M.D. He also flew C-20B aircraft at the 89th Presidential Airlift Wing at Andrews AFB, M.D. He is a Combat Decorated Command Pilot who flew missions to Grenada, Panama, Desert-Shield, and Desert-Storm, while providing safe and efficient worldwide transport to the Department of Defense, Whitehouse Staff and National leaders. Capt Minter has numerous medals, citations, and certificates from his military service career. Since becoming a pilot for United Airlines, Capt Minter has flown DC-10’s, B-757/767’s, and B-777’s, B-737 (Line Check Airmen), and Airbus 319 / 320 aircraft.

As Chairman, OBAP, he is directly responsible for the strategic development of critical partnerships between Industry, Educational Institutions and the Community to maximize the exposure of our Youth to Aerospace. The goal is to sponsor programs that empower our Youth to become the Next Generation of Aerospace Professionals.

Capt Minter is married to Mary, and they have three grown children, and they live in northern Virginia.

Mrs. Carole HopsonBoard of Directors Vice Chair

Carole Hopson is a professional pilot, and works as a flight instructor in Morristown, NJ.

Aviation had always been her passion, so she pursued flying as a second career, while raising her family. Although aviation is her current vocation, previously she spent seven years as the Vice President/Director for Training & Development of Foot Locker stores. There, she headed up executive-level leadership coaching, as well as store associate training, creating original product knowledge videos and sales training for over 140,000 associates.

She began her career as a police reporter and has worked for the Bergen Record and The Philadelphia Inquirer. She has also held executive-level positions with the National Football League and L’Oreal Cosmetics.

Mrs. Hopson graduated from Columbia University in 1990, with a Masters of Science degree in Journalism, and she holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Virginia. While at Virginia, she majored in Spanish Literature.

Carole and husband, Michael Hopson, have two sons, Joshua and Coleman, and they make their home in Montclair, New Jersey.

Ms. Linda CarterBoard of Directors Chair – Human Resources Consultant

Linda Carter is a former Managing Director – Human Resources Support and Diversity for FedEx Express Corporation at the Memphis, Tennessee headquarters.

Her responsibilities include Diversity, Affirmative Action, Policies & Procedures, Corporate Identification, HR Compliance, Recruitment, and HR Staffing Solutions.

She obtained an MBA and a BBA degree in Personnel Administration and Industrial Relations, and a BBA degree in Marketing Management from Memphis State University (currently The University of Memphis) and is a former Adjunct Professor at Shelby State Community College, State Technical Institute at Memphis (currently Southwest Tennessee Community College), Christian Brothers University, and Keller Graduate School of Management where she taught business courses including Personnel Administration, Business Ethics, Marketing, Business Law, Diversity, and Introduction to Business. She is currently an Adjunct Professor of Labor Relations at the University of Memphis.

Ms. Carter has over 30 years experience in the field of Human Resources and has earned a lifetime certification as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR). She is a native Memphian, the mother of three, a member of Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church, and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. She enjoys family activities, traveling, swimming, baking, and skiing.

Captain Ernest N. Taylor, Jr.Delta Air Lines

Board of Directors Special Projects

Captain Ernie Taylor hails from Miami, Fl. He parlayed a flying lesson he received for his 16th birthday into a dual career as a pilot, first for the Navy, then for

Northwest Airlines. Earning his private pilot’s license as he graduated from high school, Ernie attended Miami-Dade Community College receiving an Associate of Arts degree and then his Bachelor of Arts degree from Dillard University, New Orleans, LA where he graduated cum laude.

Upon graduation he entered Aviation Officer’s candidate school in Pensacola, FL and was commissioned an Ensign in the Navy. He attended pilot flight training and received his Navy “Wings of Gold”. What began

Board of Directors

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as a four year stint turned into a 23 year Naval career. Commander Taylor has flown various Naval aircraft including the P-3C Orion, S-3B Viking, E-2C Hawkeye, and the SH-3 Sea King helicopter. Diverse assignments have included deployments to the Western Pacific/Indian Ocean region, Mediterranean Sea, Sicily, Iceland, and other locations around the world. As a manager and leader, he has lead Navy and civilian personnel and managed multi-million dollar budgets in operational squadrons and at Headquarters commands in San Diego, CA and Washington D.C.

Before retiring from the Navy, Commander Taylor returned home to Miami as Commanding Officer, Navy Recruiting District, Miami. He was responsible for all Navy Officer and Enlisted recruiting programs in Central and South Florida including Puerto Rico and the United States’ Virgin Islands.

Ernie’s boyhood dream to become a commercial airline pilot came true when he joined Northwest Airlines. With over 10,000 hours of flying time, he has served as Second Officer on the Boeing 727, First Officer on the Boeing 727, Airbus 319/320 and Boeing 757, while conducting scheduled passenger operations, both domestic and international.

Captain Arnold J. TolbertAmerican Airlines (Retired)

Board of Directors Chair – Membership Committee

Florida Memorial University Director – Department of Aviation

Captain Arnold James Tolbert has been the Department of Aviation and Safety at Florida Memorial University since August 2008. He was born and raised in the small town of Williston, South Carolina. He graduated from the University of South Carolina with honors and a degree in geography in 1975; earned a masters degree in safety from the University of Central Missouri in 1978; and earned a doctorate in safety engineering from Warren National University in 2007. He received his flight training in the United States Air Force where he flew the KC 135 and was an instructor pilot in the T-37.

He was hired by American Airlines in 1987 and earned the rank of captain in 2000. He retired from American Airlines on September 2008 after 21 years of service. He has type ratings in the Boeing 727, the Boeing 737, the MD-80, the MD-11, and the Airbus 300; logging over 15,000 hours of flight time.

He is the 2005 recipient of the Lt General Harold L. George Civilian Airmanship Award from the Order of Daedalians for heroic acts and outstanding airmanship during an engine fire after takeoff on July 30, 2005. This award is presented annually to the pilot, copilot and/or crew of a United States certified commercial airline selected by a Federal Aviation committee to have demonstrated ability, judgment and/or heroism above and beyond normal operational requirements.

In addition, Capt Tolbert was awarded the 2007 Order of the Eagles Trophy which is the highest honor bestowed upon a crewmember by the American Airlines flight department.

Capt Tolbert has been an active member of OBAP since 1990. In addition, he is a member of the First Baptist Church of Ft Lauderdale where he serves as a deacon and adult Bible Study teacher. He and his wife Judy have been married for 33 years and are the proud parents of three grown children.

Board of Directors

Captain Robert BrownUPS Airlines (Retired)

Board of Directors Chair – Emeritus

Captain Robert “Bob” Brown retired from UPS Airlines after 21 years as an Assitant Chief Pilot/Check Airman having flown the B727, B757 and the B767 aircraft.

Bob was a pioneer in starting the airline for UPS, joining the ranks when it was primarily a ground distribution company.

During his career from 1988 – 2009, Bob played a significant role in establishing training, policies and procedures that became the foundation for the success of the airline today. As a trusted colleague, he became well known for providing advice and counsel to his fellow employees that has led to many successful careers at UPS. Bob began his avaition career with the United States Air Force in 1969 after completing his undergraduate degree from Grambling State University. He flew the F-5, C-9 and the C-141 from 1969 – 1977. While in the Air Force, Bob continued his formal education and completed his Masters in Science degree with a concentration in Systems Management from Unversity of Southern California in 1974. From 1977-1980 Bob was an Aviation Safety Inspector and Principal Operations Inspector, later flying for PSA Airlines from 1980 - 1982.

Bob seized an opportunity to use his expertise and served as a Health Physicist for the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission from 1982 - 1987. Bob’s desire to ensure the success of others in aviation became his passion and he joined the Organization of Black Airline Pilots (OBAP) in 1986. Having served for several years as a dedicated member, his belief in the mission of the organization led him to seek others to join him. His passion led him to continue mentoring many professionals in the organizations. His dedication is further highlighted by his role as a volunteer, serving the past twelve years in senior leadership roles as President, a member of the Board of Directors, Vice Chair and Chair of the Board of Directors. He currently serves as the Interim Chair of the Finance Committee and as a Board Advisor Bob will continue his commitment to community service and building a sustainable pipeline of young professional talent for the aerospace industry.

Mr. Grant Walker, Jr.Wings Financial Credit Union

Board of Directors Chair– Convention & Marketing Committee

Vice President – Business Development

Grant Walker, Jr. is currently Vice President of Business Development for Wings Financial Credit Union. He is responsible for the strategic planning and daily oversight of national corporate activity to increase the membership base of Wings Financial, the first credit union in the country dedicated exclusively to the people who work in the air transportation industry. Prior to joining Wings, Grant held various positions of increasing responsibility and over 21 years at Northwest Airlines in the areas of sales, corporate communications, human resources and marketing. He has his undergraduate degree from Northern Illinois University, is a Chicago native and now resides in Atlanta, Georgia. He is currently a board member of the Airport Area Chamber of Commerce in Atlanta, supports numerous charitable organizations and supports many youth and mentoring organizations.

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CONVENTION SCHEDULE – DAYS 1 & 2

40th Annual Convention and Career ExpositionAUGUST 10–12, 2016 WESTIN LOMBARD YORKTOWN CENTER n 70 YORKTOWN SHOPPING CENTER, LOMBARD, IL 60148

WELCOME RECEPTION – THE METROPOLITAN CLUB n WILLIS TOWER – 66TH FLOOR, 233 SOUTH WACKER, CHICAGO, IL 60606

DAY 1 – TUESDAY, AUGUST 9S TA R T E N D F U N C T I O N LO C AT I O N

10:00 AM 6:00 PM BCAL Leadership Academy Facilitated by, Nancy Lawrence, Ph.D

Oak

1:00 PM 5:00 PM Exhibits Career Fair Exhibitor Setup Grand Ballroom

5:00 PM 9:00 PM Registration Grand Ballroom Pre-Function Area

6:00 PM 7:30 PM Board Meeting Boardroom

DAY 2 – WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10S TA R T E N D F U N C T I O N LO C AT I O N

6:00 AM 11:59 PM Green Room Oak

7:00 AM 6:00 PM Registration Grand Ballroom Pre-Function Area

7:30 AM 9:00 AM APDP Professional Development and Hiring Symposium –The Unfair Advantage 2.0

Sponsored by – American Airlines

Lilac

8:00 AM 5:00 PM Career Development Interview Room Cypress B

8:30 AM 10:30 AM Exhibitor Breakfast Invitation Only

Grand Ballroom

9:30 AM 10:30 AM General Membership Meeting Lilac

11:00 AM 11:15 AM Career Fair Opening Ceremony Grand Ballroom Entrance

11:15 AM 6:00 PM Exhibits Career Fair

Grand Ballroom

11:00 AM 1:00 PM APDP Professional Development – Coaching & MentoringSponsored by – American Airlines

Junior Ballroom B, C

2:00 PM 5:00 PM Board of Directors & Advisors Meeting Lilac C

3:00 PM 4:00 PM Collegiate Series OrientationPresented by – The United States Marine Corp.

Lilac A

4:15 PM 5:45 PM Collegiate Series Workshop – Transitioning from college to career: Strategies for Successful Transition

Facilitated by Vanessa Jamison, FAAPresented by – The United States Marine Corp.

Lilac A

3:00 PM 5:00 PM FedEx Meeting Lilac D

3:00 PM 5:00 PM APDP Professional Development – Coaching & MentoringSponsored by – American Airlines

Junior Ballroom B,C

5:00 PM 7:00 PM Meeting Lilac B

7:00 PM 9:00 PM Welcome ReceptionSponsored by – Alaska Airlines

The Metropolitan ClubWillis Tower – 66th Floor, 233 South Wacker, Chicago, IL 60606Board buses at 6pm

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CONVENTION SCHEDULE – DAY 3

DAY 3 – THURSDAY, AUGUST 11S TA R T E N D F U N C T I O N LO C AT I O N

6:00 AM 7:00 AM Wake Up and Work Out with the Marines – Presented by – The United States Marine Corp.

Magnolia B

6:00 AM 11:59 PM Green Room Oak

7:00 AM 6:00 PM Registration Grand Ballroom Pre-Function Area

7:30 AM 9:00 AM APDP Professional Development – The Unfair Advantage 2.0Sponsored by – American Airlines

Junior Ballroom C

8:00 AM 5:00 PM Career Development Interview Room Cypress B

8:00 AM 10:00 AM Founders & Pioneers Breakfast – Honoring Our FoundersSponsored by – JetBlue

Junior Ballroom AB

8:00 AM 6:30 PM Career Fair Grand Ballroom

9:00 AM 11:00 AM Youth WorkshopExperiential Learning – The Egg Drop Competition

Facilitated by – Dr. Aprille Ericsson, NASA Goddard Space CenterPresented by – The United States Marine Corp.

Lilac A,C

9:00 AM 11:00 AM Youth Workshop Experiential LearningFacilitated by – The United States Marine Corp. and the AMAPresented by – The United States Marine Corp.

Lilac B,D

9:45 AM 12:00 PM Professional Development Session – Airline Leadership – An exploration of airline management careers and personal leadership development.

Facilitated by – Captain Houston Mills, UPSSponsored by – American Airlines

Magnolia B,C

9:45 AM 12:00 PM Collegiate Series Workshop Magnolia B,C (Students will attend the Professional Development Session)

12:00 PM 1:30 PM Youth Luncheon40 Years of Empowering Our Youth

Sponsored by – FedEx Express

Junior Ballroom

2:00 PM 3:30 PM Professional Development Session – The Importance of Networking from Day 1

Facilitated by – Mark Cervantes, Vesselin Slaveykov and John HackworthSponsored by – American Airlines

Magnolia B,C

3:00 PM 5:00 PM Collegiate SeriesFacilitated by – Aprille Ericsson, PhD., NASAPresented by – The United States Marine Corp.

Lilac B,D

5:00 PM 6:00 PM Collegiate Meet UpFacilitated by Aprille Ericsson, PhD., NASASponsored by –US Marines Presented by – The United States Marine Corp.

Lilac B,D

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CONVENTION SCHEDULE – DAYS 4 & 5

DAY 4 – FRIDAY, AUGUST 12S TA R T E N D F U N C T I O N LO C AT I O N

6:00 AM 11:59 PM Green Room Oak

7:00 AM 6:00 PM Registration Grand Ballroom Pre-Function Area

7:15 AM 8:30 AM Aviation Consortium BreakfastPresented by – The United States Marine Corp.

Magnolia B

8:00 AM 4:30 PM Career Fair Grand Ballroom

9:00 AM 5:00 PM Career Development Interview Room Cypress B

10:00 AM 12:00 PM VIP Meet and GreetInvitation Only

Oak

12:00 PM 1:30 PM Corporate Luncheon and Industry Symposium – The Future of Diversity in the Aerospace Industry

Sponsored by – Delta Air Lines

Junior Ballroom A,B

2:00 PM 3:00 PM Board Meeting Boardroom

2:00 PM 4:00 PM The Collegiate Masters SeriesPresented by – The United States Marine Corp.

Lilac A

2:00 PM 4:00 PM ACE Directors Meeting Lilac B

4:15 PM 5:15 PM Southwest Regional Caucus Lilac C

4:15 PM 5:15 PM Midwest Regional Caucus Lilac D

4:15 PM 5:15 PM West Regional Caucus Magnolia C

4:15 PM 5:15 PM Southeast Regional Caucus Lilac B

4:15 PM 5:15 PM Northeast Regional Caucus Magnolia B

7:00 PM 7:45 PM Executive Leadership ReceptionInvitation Only

Lilac

7:00 PM 7:45 PM Gala Reception Pre-Function Area

8:00 PM 1:00 AM Annual Awards GalaSponsored by – United Airlines

Junior Ballroom

DAY 5 – SATURDAY, AUGUST 13S TA R T E N D F U N C T I O N LO C AT I O N

9:00 AM 12:00 PM De-Briefing Meeting Cypress

*Schedule subject to change.

35OBAP AEROSPACE PROFESSIONAL NEWS

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CAREEREXPOSITION

Cage Marshall Consulting 311National Gay Pilots Association 408Centerline Interview 108Flight Safety International 410Envoy Air 117Wings Financial Credit Union 405Walmart Aviation 104ExpressJet Airlines 110UPS 100CommutAir 111Air Wisconsin 106Compass Airlines 109Aero Crew Solutions 208Republic Airways 210GoJet Airlines 209Trans States Airlines 211Piedmont Airlines 115American Airlines 114Lewis University 309Western Michigan University 308

American Airlines Credit Union 112Delta Air Lines 305United Airlines 201USMC 401FAPA.aero 409Southwest Airlines 105FedEx Express 301Alaska Airlines 205Frontier Airlines 212Virgin America 317JetBlue 101ALPA 418Bessie Coleman Aerospace Legacy Pre-FunctionProfessional Pilots of Tomorrow Pre-FunctionEmirates 216SkyWest Airlines 214PSA Airlines 113OBAP Pre-FunctionSilver Airways 310US Air Force Reserves 413

Endeavor 407California Coast University 411Mesa Airlines 313United States Air Force 412NGA - National Geospatial Intelligence Agency

416

US Coast Guard 315Allegiant Air 213Amerifight 312XOJet 215National Society of Black Engineers Pre-FunctionCage Marshall Consulting 311Centerline Interview 108Flight Safety International 410Envoy Air 117Great Lakes Airlines 314Omni Air International 316Kalitta Air 217

BOOTHS

AUGUST 10–12, 2016 GRAND BALLROOM – WESTIN LOMBARD YORKTOWN CENTER

YORKTOWN CENTER, 70 YORKTOWN SHOPPING CENTER, LOMBARD, IL 60148

36 OBAP AEROSPACE PROFESSIONAL NEWS

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40th Annual Convention and Career Exposition

SPEAKER PROFILES

APDP Professional Development & Hiring SymposiumWednesday, August 10 7:30 am – 9:00 am, Lilac A,C

Judy TarverJudy Tarver, Vice President, Global Strategies, FAPA.aero, specializes in the field of pilot selection and recruitment. Over the 35 years she has worked in the industry, she was Manager of Pilot Recruitment for American Airlines where she was responsible for facilitating the hiring of over 7,100 airline pilots. Judy has provided consultant work to several major air carriers and

other aviation associations such as the Air Line Pilots Association and the University Aviation Association. She was a member of the Air Carrier Pilot Pre-Employment Screening and Standards and Criteria Working Group that presented a report to Congress, and the International Licensing Harmonization Working Group as the U.S. expert in pilot selection. She also has provided expert services for the FAA, Department of Justice and Dept. of Defense. She is also an aviation author and writer.

As Vice President, Global Strategies of FAPA.aero, Judy oversees pilot consulting services and other special projects. Judy has been an active member and supporter of OBAP since 1984.

Transitioning from College to Career: Strategies for a Successful TransitionWednesday, August 10 4:15 pm – 5:45 pm, Lilac A,C

Vanessa Blacknall-JamisonVanessa has over 39 years of professional aviation experience with 28 of those as a manager and supervisor. Currently, Vanessa is a Leadership Coach and Change Management Advisor—AFS Leadership Development Team for the Federal Aviation Administration. Her duties include: Change management initiatives for senior leadership, one-on-one and team coaching for

executives, middle managers, and frontline managers. Vanessa provides an array of team building activities, organizational climate assessments, and is certified to administer behavioral and personality assessments (e.g. MBTI, DiSC, Prosci Change Management, EQI 2.0/ 360).

Vanessa holds certifications in: Vital Smarts—Crucial Accountability course, Coach U Inc.—Coaching Clinic and is a certified facilitator through Roger Schwartz & Associates—Mutual Learning. She joined the FAA in 2009, as an Aviation Safety Inspector—AMR CMO, with oversight responsibilities for American Airlines and American Eagle Airlines. Vanessa retired from United Airlines as the Manager of Emergency Procedures Training for pilots and flight attendants worldwide. Also, she held the position of Human Resources—Sr. Staff Specialist responsible for the recruitment of minority and female pilots.

Vanessa is a graduate of the FAA National Program for Emerging Leaders (PEL) and the Southwest Region LEAD Program (Leadership Development Program). Vanessa currently serves on OBAP’s Board of Advisors and Shades of Blue Board of Directors. She continues to serve on other aviation related organizations’ Board of Directors. Vanessa’s volunteerism ranges from being a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)—Dallas to coaching for Grad Life Choices.

Vanessa received her M.B.A. from the University of Phoenix and B.A.—University of Southern California and she holds her Associate Coaching Certification (ACC) from the International Coaching Association. She was an adjunct professor for the University of Colorado—Denver, teaching Organizational Health and Public Speaking. Vanessa resides in Denver, Colorado, married to Tony (31 years) and is truly the proud mother of two adult children!

37OBAP AEROSPACE PROFESSIONAL NEWS

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SPEAKER PROFILES (CONTINUED)

APDP Professional Development Session—The Unfair AdvantageThursday, August 11 7:30 am – 9:00 am, Junior Ballroom B,C

Captain Joel GrudgerCaptain Joel Grudger developed a passion early on to help

others. Having a mentor made a world of difference for Grudger in his early years trying to break into a profession which wasn’t the norm for a young man growing up in Oakland, CA.

Before Joel upgraded to captain, he had already started mentoring and planting seeds of success for others coming behind him including his mentee Captain Jamie Jameson.

Grudger became part of United Airlines Mentoring Program. In the early 2000’s that program gave him a behind-the-curtain peek at what the airline was looking for and how they assessed candidates. Years later, after the program ended, Grudger started reaching out on his own to assist individuals who had interviews with regionals and majors. Two years ago Grudger decided to offer his expertise to OBAP’s Aerospace Professional Development Program (APDP) team and since then, we have seen a huge increase in the numbers of our members landing jobs.

Captain Grudger is that silent partner in the background, very quiet and rarely seen. His contribution has made a tremendous impact on the continued success of OBAP as well as the many individuals who have gotten hired as a result of his mentorship!

American Airlines Credit Union and the Flight Symbol are marks of American Airlines, Inc.

Congratulations OBAP on 40 years of support for our youth.

Together, the sky’s the limit.

38 OBAP AEROSPACE PROFESSIONAL NEWS

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SPEAKER PROFILES (CONTINUED)

Youth Experiential WorkshopThursday, August 11 9:00 am – 11:00 am, Lilac A,C

Collegiate Series WorkshopThursday, August 11 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm, Lilac B,D

Dr. Aprille EricssonAprille J. Ericsson, Ph.D. grew up in Brooklyn, NY, where she attended school through junior high. She was awarded a scholarship to the Cambridge School of Weston, MA for high school. She attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, receiving a B.D. in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering. She received her Masters of Engineering and Ph.D. in Mechanical

Engineering in Aerospace from Howard University. Her graduate research focused on the development of procedures for the design of ‘optimal digital controllers’ for future large orbiting space structures. Dr. Ericsson has been a guest researcher at Harvard/Radcliffe University and has a certificate for leadership and management from John Hopkins University.

Dr. Ericsson spent most of her engineering career at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC). She worked in Guidance & Control, conducting spacecraft simulations to analyze and predict spacecraft dynamic behavior during flight, and to determine the best control methods for spacecraft attitude and structural vibration. She has also worked at NASA HQ as a Program Executive for the Earth Science Enterprise and a Resource Manager for the Space Science Enterprise.

She has been an Instrument Manager in NASA Goddard’s Instrument Systems Branch, leading and managing teams of scientists and engineers on various instrument proposals and flight missions. Dr. Ericsson was Instrument Manager on the Magnetospheric Multiscale mission. Dr. Ericsson spent 5 months on detail as a Loaned Executive to the Combined Federal Campaign, where she was responsible for raising $2M from federal workers for charities across the nation.

Upon return to Goddard, she was project engineer for a technology development mission to validate a miniature thermal loop heater/radiator system. Dr. Ericsson was the Instrument Manager for a proposal for an Advanced X-Ray Polarimeter mission, and Project Engineer for the Lunar Orbiter Laser Altimeter Instrument—which will provide topographic data to map the lunar surface in preparation for future moon exploration. In 1995, Dr. Ericsson made history by becoming the first female to receive a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering. This made her the only African American at Goddard Space Center with this advanced degree.

We’re proud to support the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals

Here at American, we represent a world that is abundant in diversity and culture. Inclusion and diversity is a priority, and ensures American is a place every employee wants to be and prosper.

Learn more at aa.com/diversity

A rich heritage with a promising future.

American Airlines and the Flight Symbol logo are marks of American Airlines, Inc. oneworld is a mark of the oneworld Alliance, LLC. © 2016 American Airlines, Inc. All rights reserved.

39OBAP AEROSPACE PROFESSIONAL NEWS

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SPEAKER PROFILES (CONTINUED)

Airline Leadership—An Exploration of Airline Management Careers and Personal Leadership DevelopmentThursday, August 11 10:45 am – 12:00 pm, Grand Ballroom H

Captain Houston MillsAs director of Airline Safety for UPS Airlines, Captain Houston Mills is responsible for ensuring the safe operation of UPS’s fleet of 237 jets, as well as overseeing the airline’s emergency response programs.

Before accepting his current position, Houston served as UPS’s international chief

pilot, where he was responsible for crew-related flight operation activity worldwide and as the Director of Flight Training where he was responsible for flight training program use all crewmembers.

A native of Indianapolis, Houston received a bachelor’s in English literature from Wabash College and an MBA from Webster University. He also holds a Professional Human Resources designation.

Houston began his aviation career in 1985 as a Marine Corps officer and F/A-18 fighter pilot. He served as an air combat tactics instructor and supported ground units during Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm and Restore Hope. Houston also flew missions during Operation Southern Watch and has more than 100 aircraft carrier landings to his credit. He is a currently an international qualified Captain on the Boeing 757/767.

In step with UPS’s commitment to the community, Houston serves on the national Board of Directors of the Marne Toys for Tots Foundation, Board of trustees for the Lincoln Foundation of Louisville, and is president of the Marine Corps Coordinating Council of Kentucky. Houston also serves as the vice-chair of the Airlines for America (A4A) Safety Council which represents major U.S. Airlines.

Married and the father of three, Houston particularly enjoys motivational speaking, golf, and has coached various youth sports for many years.

UNMATCHED CAREERPATH TO AMERICANAIRLINES

• Growing Fleet

• Competitive Upgrade

• Flexible Schedule

psaairlines.com

40 OBAP AEROSPACE PROFESSIONAL NEWS

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SPEAKER PROFILES (CONTINUED)

Professional Development Series—The Importance of Networking from Day OneThursday, August 11 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm, Magnolia B,C

Marc CervantesMarc Cervantes, President, Professional Pilots of Tomorrow, is originally from France and has loved aviation since the age of three. He earned his Bachelor of Aeronautical Science at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and pursued a Master of Business degree at Embry-Riddle as well. Marc is currently a First Officer for ExpressJet Airlines, hired in May of 2014. In his free time,

Marc loves to play basketball, travel, and hike—as well as being a Formula 1 enthusiast. Mentoring has played a big role in his life, and apart from Professional Pilots of Tomorrow he mentors through Big Brother Big Sister.

John HackworthJohn Hackworth, Vice-President, Professional Pilots of Tomorrow, spent the majority of his youth living overseas—and through the years of constant travel he garnered a passion for aviation. After receiving his undergraduate degree in Business from Northeastern University in ’07, John pursed his dream by attending Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where he

eventually became a flight instructor as well as earning a Master of Business degree in Airline Management. As an instructor, Hackworth was fortunate to have met many amazing people, both colleagues and students, many with whom he is still in contact. As a four year First Officer with ExpressJet Airlines, John is eager to continue his passion for both aviation as well as mentorship.

Vesselin SlaveykovVesselin Slaveykov, Vice-President, Professional Pilots of Tomorrow, is an Embry-Riddle graduate (class of 2011) currently employed with ExpressJet Airlines. He has over four years experience in FAR part 121 operations totaling over 4000 hours. Vesselin has a strong background in teaching, tutoring and management, and dedicates his free time to

volunteer for the ALPA P2P committee. Slaveykov’s passion and energy led him to become a co-founder and Vice President of Professional Pilots of Tomorrow—a leading mentoring program for future pilots—which has taught him the importance of communication, strategic planning and development. Vesselin is eager to learn, motivate others and improve on the aviation industry.

40th Annual Awards Gala EmceeFriday, August 12 8:00 pm, Junior Ballroom

Derrick YoungDerrick Young is a member of the CBS Chicago morning news team. He’s up early every morning helping commuters navigate their way around Chicago and Northwest Indiana.

In addition to working as the CBS 2 Traffic Reporter, Derrick is also a motivational speaker and professional health coach. Since 1990,

Derrick has mentored, coached and trained individuals on a wide range of personal development topics.

Derrick spends much of his free time in the gym or you’ll find him on the path running and cycling. He loves to cook and his need for adventure is satisfied doing things like sky diving, white water rafting, driving race cars and skiing. Derrick is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and serves on the Community Leadership Board for the American Diabetes Association. Derrick graduated in 1990 from the University of Illinois with a B.S. in Business Administration.

UPSJOBS.com – Jobline: 502.359.1877

UPS is Hiring

UPS is an equal opportunity employer – race/color/religion/sex/national origin/veteran/disability/sexual orientation/gender identity

©2016 UPS and the UPS Brandmark and the color brown are trademarks of United Parcel Service of America, Inc. All rights reserved.

First Officers · Flight Qualified Management · Ground School Instructors · Simulator Technicians · Flight Dispatchers · Aircraft Maintenance Management Trainees

41OBAP AEROSPACE PROFESSIONAL NEWS

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AcknowledgementsOver the course of the year we call upon numerous volunteers, sponsors, donors and other ancillary groups to

support our effort to provide aerospace career enrichment programs to young people all over the country. This year, here are a few of the individuals we’d like to thank for helping to make it possible…

For the Convention

Bill Pritchett, Director of Education, Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA)

Dr. Aprille Ericsson, NASA Goddard Space Center

Shalishah “Petey” Franklin, littleFoster

Yoki Johnson, OBAP Volunteer Coordinator

OBAP’s Team of Volunteers

Vanessa Blacknall-Jamison, FAA

Judy Tarver, FAPA.aero

Dannielle Boggs

Claire Gentry

Jamie Jamison, American Airlines, Ian Howe, United Airlines and the entire APDP Team

Captain Joel Grudger, United Airlines

Captain Houston Mills, UPS

Mark Cervantes, Vesselin Slaveykov and John Hackworth, Professional Pilots of Tomorrow

Captain Clovis Jones (FedEx Express, Ret.)

Shannon Brown, FedEx Express

Donna Noel, FedEx Express

Derrick Young, CBS

For the Academies

Atlanta ACE Academy Chick-fil-A

Pit Stop Convenience Centers

The Coca-Cola Company

Mellow Mushroom

Delta Air Lines

United Parcel Service

Waffle House

Wings Financial

Falcon Aviation Academy

Commemorative Air Force Dixie Wing Museum

Atlanta Hartsfield Jackson International Airport

Chicago ACE AcademyUnited Airlines

Cleveland ACE AcademyDelta Air Lines

National Black Coalition of Federal Aviation Employees (NBCFAE)

Cleveland ACE Academy (cont.)Federal Aviation Administration

Manager’s Association (FAAMA)Professional Women Controllers (PWC)United AirlinesCleveland Airport System

Shawnee ACE Academy, LouisvilleUPSFederal Aviation Administration (FAA)YUM! Brands Inc.Hurm Family DentistryLouisville Metro GovernmentThe Academy @ ShawneeJefferson County Public School SystemTennessee State UniversityKentucky State UniversityPurdue UniversityLouisville Regional Airport AuthorityAero Club of LouisvilleCaptain Edward Horne (UPS, Ret.)Dr. Geneva Stark

Phoenix ACE AcademyArizona Public Service CorporationSonoran Technology

Memphis Center of ExcellenceFedExPSAHospital Wing MemphisNational Black Coalition of Federal

Aviation Employees (NBCFAE)Shelby County SchoolsTuskegee Airmen Memphis ChapterMemphis BlackhawksMemphis Belles WAIFour Season TourFAATennessee Technology Tennessee Air National GuardNational Flight AcademyMemphis Airport Authority

You inspire us. FedEx is proud to recognize the

Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals

for a job well done. Happy 40th anniversary.©2016 FedEx. All rights reserved.

You deserve a round of applause.

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Carol Gentry, OBAP National Administratior, you will remain forever in our hearts.

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You inspire us. FedEx is proud to recognize the

Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals

for a job well done. Happy 40th anniversary.©2016 FedEx. All rights reserved.

You deserve a round of applause.

CCGT-102_7-15-16_Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals.indd 1 7/15/16 4:15 PM

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