Local/Regional Groups Collaborate at NBAA-BACE

NBAA’s annual Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) provided essential opportunities for the industry’s local and regional groups to connect, share insights and reengage with stakeholders. The association’s Local and Regional Group Committee convened its leaders at the event last fall in Las Vegas to network and exchange best practices.

“The conversations held with this network of group leaders aren’t intended to stop when these events end,” said Committee Chair Jessica Belcher. “The insight, passion and work are continuous, and we’re excited to be here to foster constant growth!”

A networking session included group leaders, members and interested attendees, offering space for relationship-building and updates on regional initiatives. The Outstanding Excellence by a Regional Group Award was presented to the Massachusetts Business Aviation Association (MBAA) for their standout achievements in mentoring, legislative engagement and education.

“Russ Arena, Dave Richter and the dedicated leadership team of the MBAA have continually been impactful in the Boston area, setting a high standard for other regional groups to follow,” said Brittany Davies, NBAA’s regional director who oversees Massachusetts. “Focusing on safety, collaboration and scholarships (among many other areas) showcases the impact a group of volunteers can make with strong leadership, teamwork and goal setting.”

The committee’s annual education session further highlighted the strength of the regional network and the expertise within it. “In years past, the education session featured outside experts or panels of bizav leaders,” Belcher noted. “But this year, we wanted to focus on our own people.”

With NBAA’s recent realignment of its Regional Representatives program, NBAA-BACE offered regional directors a timely opportunity to connect with their groups. The session opened with introductions from Steve Hadley, Phil Derner and Kristi Ivey, as well as Davies, each recognizing notable accomplishments across their regions.

Derner spotlighted the collaborative NorCal SoCal Corral, uniting the Northern and Southern California Business Aviation Associations for education and roundtable discussions. Ivey celebrated the Georgia Business Aviation Association’s 20th consecutive annual Safety Day, while MBAA’s Russ Arena commended his board’s impressive mentoring initiatives. Hadley recognized the advocacy efforts of the Greater St. Louis Business Aviation Association, host of the 2026 Regional Leadership Roundtable.

The committee honored outgoing Chair Belcher, whose term concluded in 2025. Hadley, NBAA’s regional group program director, recognized Belcher’s years of dedication and leadership with warm appreciation.

The committee welcomed incoming 2026 Chair Ashley Charnley. Having already served as vice chair, Charnley is eager to step into the new role, while Maddie DuBray has transitioned from executive secretary to vice chair. Their focus as the leadership team includes a “back to basics” approach, with communication and ownership at the forefront of the committee.

Review NBAA’s resources for regional groups at nbaa.org/regional.