Prescott City Manager Katie Gregory has named a former state aviation official, Kelly Fredericks, PE, AAE to the role of interim Airport Director while a permanent full-time director is sought. Fredericks will take on the leadership role on a part-time basis, assisting airport staff with technical, operational and project management.
In a memo to City Council, City Manager Gregory said, “I have taken several steps to ensure the continuation of superior services at the Airport. This has included checking in with the Airport staff, listening to the senior airport leadership regarding their preferences for management and oversight, and including them in the process of meeting with and vetting my choice for an interim Airport Director. While the staff is very capable and efficient in managing the day-to-day operations of the Airport, they would like to have someone who is able to take on a senior leadership role and assist with technical, operational and project management issues as needed.”
According to the City Manager, Mr. Fredericks comes highly qualified and was recommended by longtime airport contractor Dibble Engineering. Mr. Fredericks has over 35 years of airport management, strategic planning, airport capital development and program management. He is a registered Professional Engineer, an Accredited Airport Executive and holds a private pilot license. He has served as CEO/COO of multiple commercial service Airports, and has overseen the planning, design and construction of major runway expansions similar to what is proposed at Prescott Regional Airport.
Additionally, Mr. Fredericks has strong relationships within the aviation industry including working with all levels of the FAA, USDOT and numerous state and local agencies on multiple project approvals and grant funding. He is a former director of the Rhode Island Airport Corporation.
“I have had the opportunity to spend several hours with Mr. Fredericks and find him to be an experienced leader with a passion for all things aviation,” said City Manager Gregory. “He is very excited to get started and build stakeholder relationships, mentor airport staff, and continue to advance the airport’s development initiatives.” Mr. Fredericks will begin work on November 27th and will be onsite at the Airport on a part time basis beginning December 5th.
Regarding the search for a full-time permanent Airport Director, City Manager Gregory also indicated that the City has secured the services of ADK Consulting, considered one of the largest talent search firms in the U.S. Airport Industry. The search will begin in the next couple of weeks and will likely take 3-4 months to complete. While Mr. Fredericks is not interested in the full-time position, he will aid in the process of reviewing and interviewing candidates.
