Promoting Aviation Education and Awareness
Aviation Education & External Engagement (AEEE)
The Aviation Education & External Engagement (AEEE) Division supports the Virginia Department of Aviation’s organizational mission by helping to build the public’s appreciation and awareness of the importance of aviation in the Commonwealth.
Our team manages communication activities and outreach efforts for the sharing of relevant aviation information to the current and next generation of aviation professionals, student pilots, educators, aviation enthusiasts, the media, and general public.
In addition to our communications and education outreach, we handle aircraft registration.
Public Relations
Promotes Virginia’s airports and aviation to ensure a positive image of the air transportation system throughout the Commonwealth.
Aviation Education
Provides access to education and aviation awareness programs throughout the Commonwealth for the benefit of citizens of all ages.
Media & Publications
Manages a variety of publications and media outlets to both educate and inform the public regarding aviation in Virginia.
Aviation Awareness
Participates in events and offers public programs to enhance aviation awareness in the Commonwealth.
Aircraft Registration & Compliance
Assists aircraft owners and operators with registration to ensure compliance with Virginia’s aviation laws.
Public Relations and Aircraft Registration
The Aviation Education & External Engagement (AEEE) Division is comprised of a Public Relations Section and an Aircraft Registration Program.
The Public Relations Section develops communications resources such as pamphlets and brochures, the agency website and social media sites, and press releases. This section supports aviation awareness, education, and workforce development through outreach efforts and activities. This section promotes Virginia aviation through industry trade shows, career days, and many other public events.
The Aircraft Registration Program registers aircraft in the Commonwealth of Virginia. All aircraft that are owned by residents of the Commonwealth, or owned by nonresidents, if the aircraft are located in Virginia more than 90 days in a calendar year period, are required to be registered. The registration requirement includes aircraft which are based at both public-use and private-use airports, heliports, and landing areas.
More About Our Team
Alton Jordan
- 804-236-3644
- alton.jordan@doav.virginia.gov
Deputy Director, Aviation Education & External Engagement
Stephen Clausing
- 804-774-4635
- stephen.clausing@doav.virginia.gov
Communications & Legislative Affairs Manager
Tess Robertson
- 804-236-3630
- tess.robertson@doav.virginia.gov
Aviation Education Program Development Manager
This role leads statewide aviation education initiatives by promoting STEM and career awareness, administering key programs, supporting workforce partnerships, and representing the agency to advance aviation education and outreach.
Anthony Sotelo
- 804-774-4634
- anthony.sotelo@doav.virginia.gov
Aviation Education Coordinator
Amanda Cosby
- 804-236-3631
- amanda.cosby@doav.virginia.gov
Aviation Education Specialist
Cindy McNamara
- 804-236-3624
- cindy.mcnamara@doav.virginia.gov
Customer Services Specialist
This role supports the division with administrative duties, assisting the educational outreach staff, and serves as the primary back‑up to the Administrative Assistant.
Daija Harris
- 804-774-4631
- daija.harris@doav.virginia.gov
Aircraft Compliance Coordinator
Renata Taylor
- 804-774-4655
- renata.taylor@doav.virginia.gov
Aircraft Registration Specialist
This role supports the Aircraft Registration and Compliance Program, providing public‑facing research and customer support for aircraft owners on registrations and renewals, data entry, and resolving conflicts tactfully.