Airport Business
Ryan O’Rear
Assistant Airport Director
Williston Basin International Airport (XWA)
Connect on LinkedInEducation:
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Bachelor of Science, Aviation Technology, Aerospace Operations
Ryan O’Rear first discovered business aviation as a child growing up near the local airport in Broomfield, CO, and attending airshows there. While he originally pursued a degree to become a pilot, he found his true passion in airport operations and management, where he’s spent the past 12 years. In 2013, O’Rear started as an intern at Denver International Airport (DEN) before moving to XWA in Williston, ND, for two years in an entry-level operations position. He then was named airport manager at a small GA airport in Brookings, SD, before working as an airport operations coordinator at Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). Currently, O’Rear serves as assistant airport director back in Williston, where he’s held the title for the past seven years.
“The most exciting part about business aviation is its ability to connect people, businesses and communities so seamlessly,” O’Rear said. “I find it very rewarding to work in airport management to help create an environment where business aviation can thrive as a vital part of the airport ecosystem.”
International Business Aviation Council Ltd.