WASHINGTON, DC – The National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) recognized outstanding achievements in state aviation during its 2025 Annual Convention and Trade Show, held Sept. 21-24, in Anchorage, Alaska.

Each year, the NASAO Awards celebrate the individuals, innovative programs and initiatives that shape the future of aviation at the state level. This year’s honorees exemplify excellence in public service, leadership, and innovation across the aviation community.

“Each year, NASAO is proud to recognize the outstanding contributions made in support of state aviation,” said Martin Blake, NASAO’s 2024–25 board chair and multimodal division director for the Indiana Department of Transportation. “Through their dedication and leadership, these individuals and programs have shown us all how state aviation can positively impact communities and the broader aviation industry.”

“I’m pleased that we were once again able to us these awards at our Annual Convention to highlight these outstanding efforts in aviation” added Greg Pecoraro, NASAO’s president and CEO. “By their actions, these award winners have improved aviation operations, spread knowledge of aviation, or enhanced the public’s awareness of this importance aviation plays in our lives. It’s an honor for us to be able to recognize them.”

2025 NASAO Award Winners

Kenneth A. Rowe Ambassador of Aviation Award: John R. Binder III, former deputy commissioner of aviation, Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities

John R. Binder III has made a lasting impact on the aviation landscape of Alaska and the nation through his leadership, vision and dedication. He is recognized for his transformative leadership of Alaska’s aviation system — one of the largest and most complex in the country. During his tenure, he oversaw 237 rural airports, two international airports, and several critical statewide programs, ensuring reliable access to transportation in a state where aviation is essential. A retired U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel and longtime advocate for aviation safety and infrastructure, Binder also served on the NASAO board of directors, bringing Alaska’s unique voice to national aviation policy conversations. His career reflects a deep commitment to public service, operational excellence, and advancing aviation at the state and federal levels.

State Aviation Distinguished Service Award: Richard Mills, P.E., airport engineer, Arkansas Division of Aeronautics

Richard Mills has led efforts to improve and maintain all of Arkansas’ public-use airports. Through the State Airport Aid Grant Program, he has helped award more than $261 million to support thousands of airport projects across the state, helping communities maintain vital access to air travel. He has also conducted nearly 1,000 airport 5010 inspections. His dedication has made a measurable impact on access, safety and infrastructure across Arkansas.

Most Innovative State Program Award: Tennessee Department of Transportation, Aeronautics Division – Tennessee Aviation Professional (TAP) Academy

The Tennessee Department of Transportation’s Aeronautics Division developed the TAP Academy to provide new airport managers and aviation professionals with a strong foundation in the basics of aviation systems, safety, airport self-sufficiency, regulations and project management. As state and federal regulations evolve, the TAP Academy also helps ensures airport professionals have the knowledge they need to succeed. Offered twice a year, the program has become a cornerstone of workforce development for Tennessee’s aviation system.

NASAO Center Aviation Education Program Award: North Dakota Aeronautics Commission – Fly-ND Career Expo

The North Dakota Aeronautics Commission developed the Fly-ND Career Expo, a dynamic, hands-on program designed specifically for high school juniors and seniors across the state. More than just a career day, this annual event gives students with meaningful exposure to aviation through interactive experiences, direct engagement with industry professionals and opportunities to explore real career paths. With nearly 800 students reached to date, the program has not only sparked curiosity but also opened doors — offering scholarships and building valuable connections between young people and the aviation community.

President’s Award: Gregory W. Campbell, director of the Virginia Department of Aviation, and John S. Eberhardt III, managing director of ATA Aviation

NASAO President and CEO awarded Greg Campbell and John Eberhardt for their instrumental roles in launching and leading the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Multistate Collaborative. What began as a conversation among a few forward-thinking states has grown into a coordinated, multi-state initiative focused on AAM policy and planning. Their leadership and strategic guidance helped shape the Collaborative’s work, culminating in the release of its first four topic papers, an important milestone for state-level engagement in AAM.

NASAO leadership named the recipients of the 2025 NASAO awards during the NASAO annual convention, which brought together aviation leaders from across the country to discuss emerging challenges, share best practices and strengthen collaboration.

For more information about the NASAO Awards, visit https://nasao.org/page/Awards.