NBAA tabs 40 under 40 business aviation's rising stars

The list of NBAA 40 under age 40 up-and-coming industry pros included six jet card flight providers.

By Doug Gollan, October 10, 2024

Six jet card flight providers saw team members selected to the National Business Aviation Association’s annual 40 under 40 list.

According to the association, there were a record number of nominations in 2024.

Recipients shared their enthusiasm for the industry and its customers with NBAA.

40 under 40

Northern Jet’s Mary Shad, vice president of client experience, made the list.

She says, “Not only is every day different, but every client is different, with different priorities and missions. The relationships I have with these clients is truly special. It’s so gratifying to understand their respective company cultures and serve each client on an individual level.”

Onboard, Lauran Grant, a cabin attendant with Jet Linx, adds, “Each day brings fresh challenges and opportunities, keeping me engaged.”

Holly Schroeder created Elevate Retreat, a support group for cabin attendants, and flies as a cabin attendant for Jet Aviation.

“I am so excited to be mentoring other corporate flight attendants and launching a retreat this fall to give back to my community,” she says.

Solairus Aviation Lead Captain Andrew Sutton-Pado says, “Every step I take deeper into this industry has unlocked exciting challenges that keep me engaged and fulfilled.”

Geoffrey Green, G500 Aircraft Maintenance Manager with Mayo Aviation, LLC, part of George J. Priester Aviation, says, “I love airplanes, but once I got into business aviation, it’s all about the people. I want to share the excitement with the future generation to give them the same or better opportunities than I once had. It’s one of the few jobs that you can start as a tech and end up in leadership roles.”

Gilberto Perez Lopez, vice president of operations with Leviate Air Group, sums up what it is like to work in private aviation.

He says, “I love the ever-changing dynamic environment and the unique challenges, such as dealing with the weather in Aspen, revising slot times in Mykonos, or securing numerous overflight permits for a last-minute flight to Argentina – all while delivering a world-class experience to every passenger on every flight.”

See the full list here.

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