The New Mexico Airport Managers Association names David Ploeger of Los Alamos, center, Airport Manager of the Year. Courtesy photo
COUNTY News:
RUIDOSO—At the 2017 Annual Meeting of the New Mexico Airport Managers Association (NMAMA) May 10-12 in Ruidoso, Los Alamos County Airport Manager David Ploeger was named New Mexico Airport Manager of the Year.
This award goes to the airport manager who does an outstanding job in managing the airport and advancing aviation safety at his/her airport. Criteria includes administrative expertise, maintaining a safe and efficient airport, general upkeep of airport, staff and management interface (internal and external), and involvement in the local airport community.
The New Mexico Airport Managers Association Awards were first given out in 2000 at the Airport Managers Association Annual Conference and Trade Show. Prior to the conference, the NMDOT – Aviation Division and a member of the New Mexico Airport Managers Association discussed the nominees and winners in each category.
In addition to Ploeger, this year’s nominees include Jim Talbert, Alamogordo White Sands Regional Airport and Mike Lewis, Farmington Four Corners Regional Airport.
Ploeger first came to the state in 2008 as Los Alamos County Airport manager. He brought with him years of experience in the US Navy as well as experience managing a general aviation airport on the East Coast. Soon after his arrival in New Mexico, Ploeger became active with the NMAMA – jumping into the aviation community with both feet.
After a few years, he decided to apply for the job of state aviation director. After serving the state for a year and a half, he decided to join the consulting world. He worked as a consultant for three years and finished up this work as a key contributor to the ACRP publication on Airport Preventative Maintenance. Of course, a few years ago, Ploeger decided to return to what he loves – being an airport manager.
In managing the local airport; Ploeger oversees the activities of tenants, an airline and a variety of maintenance and capital projects. He always has his FAA paperwork in on time, many times, he is ahead of the game and has it completed a year in advance. During his tenure as airport manager, Ploeger has completed several significant projects including a runway extension. He has supported the aviation community in the state by serving the NMAMA as president and is on the Board of Directors.
Ploeger and his wife JoAnne are parents to four adult children and enjoy visiting their small army of grandchildren. They also are tremendously active in their church community.
