Charting the Course: Highlights from the 2025 Maryland Regional Aviation Conference

Ocean City, MD – June 13, 2025 – The Maryland Aviation Council (MAC) proudly announces the successful conclusion of its 2025 Maryland Regional Aviation Conference, held from Wednesday, June 11, to Friday, June 13, at the Princess Royale in Ocean City, MD. The three-day event brought together aviation professionals, industry leaders, and stakeholders to discuss critical topics, share insights, and foster advancements in Maryland’s aviation sector.

The conference kicked off on Wednesday, June 11, with a Golf Outing at Eagles Landing Golf Course, followed by a welcoming reception at the Ocean City Municipal Airport, providing attendees with excellent networking opportunities.

Thursday, June 12, was packed with informative sessions. The day began with welcoming remarks from Allison Swint, MAC President and Airport Director of St. Mary’s County Regional Airport, and Jaime Giandomenico, MAC Member-at-Large and Airport Manager of Ocean City Municipal Airport. Attendees received Maryland aviation related updates from Paul Shank, PE, Chief Engineer, Maryland Aviation Administration. Discussions on “Owner Maintenance/Hangars” were led by James Logie of the Federal Aviation Administration. A highlight of the day was the “Wright Brothers Award Presentation,” recognizing significant contributions Michael Freed has made to aviation, presented by Michael Bevan of the Federal Aviation Administration. Afternoon sessions included “On-Airport Incidents and Aircraft Removal” by JJ Anglin of Aircraft Recovery Services, an update on the “UMES Piedmont Maintenance Academy” by Chris Proscia, and a presentation on “Visual Intelligence for Airport Operations” by Arun Narayanan of Datalytix. The day concluded with an evening reception and a memorable bonfire on the beach with s’mores.

Friday, June 13, focused on key infrastructure projects and legal aspects of aviation. Project spotlights included the “Runway 11-29 Reconstruction at Bay Bridge Airport,” presented by Derek Hollinger, PE, and Derek Staub, Construction Engineer from AECOM, and Shawn Casey, Vice President of Allan Myers. Another vital project, “Runway 15-33 Rehabilitation at Martin State Airport,” was detailed by Paul Shank, PE, from the Maryland Aviation Administration, and Tracy Hollida, PE, Chief Engineering Manager at ADCI. Rob Schulte, Esq., Owner of Schulte Booth PC, provided valuable insights into “Airport and Pilot Legal Issues.” The conference concluded with the MAC Quarterly Meeting, followed by lunch at Brother’s Bistro on the Ocean City Boardwalk to watch the airshow practice runs.

“This year’s conference was an outstanding success, fostering invaluable discussions and collaborations that will undoubtedly propel Maryland’s aviation industry forward,” said Allison Swint, MAC President. “We extend our sincerest gratitude to all our speakers, exhibitors, and sponsors for their unwavering support and contributions to making this event a truly impactful experience for everyone involved.”

The Maryland Aviation Council looks forward to continuing to serve the aviation community and advancing the interests of Maryland’s airports and aviators. MAC is seeking those that may be interested in applying to serve on the Board of Directors. Further details regarding the nomination process will be forthcoming. MAC aims for a smooth and transparent transition to ensure continued strong leadership for MAC.

About the Maryland Aviation Council (MAC): The Maryland Aviation Council is dedicated to promoting and fostering the growth and development of aviation in Maryland. MAC serves as a unified voice for the state’s aviation community, advocating for policies and initiatives that enhance safety, efficiency, and economic vitality.