Feb. 5, 2025
NBAA Senior Manager of Social Media Tressa Mattingly has joined the board of the Native American Aviation Association (NAAA), where she is committed to engaging and inspiring others with the many unique and highly rewarding career opportunities in aviation.
The group’s mission is to provide tribal communities with aviation education, skill development, hands-on training and mentorship, to encourage young Native Americans to pursue careers in the industry.
“This is an incredible opportunity to showcase an inspiring, dynamic industry with the next generation of leaders,” said Mattingly, a member of the Chickasaw Nation.
Mattingly brings to her new position an upbringing indelibly shaped by aviation. Her parents were part of the FAA workforce (her father, now a retired FAA engineer, serves as a Chickasaw elder). A great-uncle was among the first Native Americans to paratroop onto the beaches of Normandy, France, in World War II.
Her work with NBAA offered an introduction to the team at the Chickasaw Nation flight department, an NBAA member organization. “The Chickasaw Nation and others rely on aircraft as a business tool for key employees to efficiently reach facilities in rural areas across the country, and to meet with state and federal officials,” Mattingly said. “As with many companies, business aviation helps people increase their efficiency and productivity.”
Mattingly’s lifelong affiliation with aviation has made clear to her why it is for so many people both a passion and a profession. Her message to indigenous people reflects the perspective she shares with others: “Whether you want to consider a career in business aviation, with the airlines, in the military or otherwise, this industry has a place for you. It’s more than a career – it’s a welcoming community.”
Kevin Allis, NAAA’s founder, executive director and Forest County Potawatomi Community member said Mattingly was a natural for the organization. “Tressa’s inspiring story has its roots in the Native American and aviation communities – both of which are characterized by rich histories and iconic figures. She is an ideal ambassador, an example for others to follow and an exciting addition to our organization”
International Business Aviation Council Ltd.