Each year the Colorado Division of Aeronautics recognizes a Colorado airport and aviation professional who has made outstanding contributions to the Colorado Aviation System. This year’s awards presentation took place at the 2022 Colorado Airport Operators Association (CAOA) Spring Conference held in Grand Junction, CO June 8-10.
Colorado Airport of the Year – Centennial Airport (APA)
The Colorado Airport of the Year Award was presented to Centennial Airport by the Colorado Division of Aeronautics in recognition for the airport’s outstanding contributions to the Colorado Aviation System. Airports distinguished with this award demonstrate values that fall in line with the CDOT Division of Aeronautics’ mission to advance a safe, efficient, and effective statewide aviation system through collaboration, investment, and advocacy.
Since May 12, 1968, Centennial Airport – APA (formerly known as Arapahoe County Airport) has been Denver’s south metro air connection. Today, Centennial airport continues to hold the rank as the United States’ second busiest general aviation airport, providing airport users a safe and efficiently operated airfield that provides access to all reaches of the world. Centennial Airport’s robust infrastructure and prime location has attracted an incredible number of aviation-related businesses to the airport to thrive in the economic synergy that can be felt throughout the airport. The future vision of Centennial Airport is now led by 23-year APA veteran Mike Fronapfel.
“It is an honor to receive this award on behalf of everyone at Centennial Airport. We could not have earned this award without the hard work and dedication of our staff and the support of our aviation community. Receiving this recognition from our peers makes this honor even greater,” said Centennial Airport Director Mike Fronapfel.
According to the 2020 Economic Impact Study of Colorado Airports, Centennial Airport is responsible for supporting 10,341 jobs, producing over $593 million in annual payroll, while generating $2.1 billion in overall business revenue.
Colorado Aviation Professional of the Year – Troy Stover
The Colorado Aviation Professional of the Year Award was presented to Colorado Springs Airport’s Assistant Director of Aviation, Troy Stover, by the Colorado Division of Aeronautics in recognition of outstanding contributions to the Colorado Aviation System. Individuals distinguished with this award demonstrate values that fall in line with the CDOT Division of Aeronautics’ mission to advance a safe, efficient, and effective statewide aviation system through collaboration, investment, and advocacy.
Troy began his aviation career just after graduating high school working as an Airfield Maintenance Technician/Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighter at Jefferson County Airport (now known as Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport -BJC). Troy’s passion for aviation and airports directed him to earn a bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management from Metropolitan State University of Denver. Troy worked his way up to BJC’s top rank as Airport Manager, and in 2005, Troy accepted an opportunity to become the Airport Facilities Manager at Colorado Springs Airport (COS). Since 2013, Troy has held the position of Assistant Director of Aviation, overseeing the airport’s administration, finance, and business development functions.
“As a member of the aviation industry for over 35 years, this award is a true honor,” said Stover. “I’ve had the pleasure of working with amazing people over my career and without my team at the airport and our partners none of our successes would be possible. Thank you to all of my colleagues in aviation who have made an impact on the industry.”
