Gary Siegfried serves as the Executive Director of the South Carolina Aeronautics Commission, where his work focuses on aviation policy, airport development, funding programs, and long-term planning to support the statewide airport system. He regularly engages with airport sponsors, engineers, planners, educators, and legislators on issues ranging from infrastructure investment and land-use compatibility to workforce development and aviation careers.
Gary enjoys participating in industry panels and discussions on aviation careers, airport finance, and the often-overlooked professional opportunities that exist beyond the cockpit, including engineering, planning, and airport management. He brings a practical perspective to the aviation sector shaped by his background as a civil engineer, an airport consultant, and his ongoing collaboration with local communities and aviation stakeholders across the region. Outside of work, Gary is an avid scuba diver with a growing list of dive sites checked off across the Caribbean, and he enjoys cooking.
Michael Stone is in his 30th year in education, bringing a wealth of experience from both the classroom and school leadership. He spent his first 10 years as a classroom teacher, where he developed a strong foundation in instructional practice and student-centered learning.
For the past 20 years, Michael has served in school administration, including nine years as a high school principal. He currently serves as the Director of Secondary Education and Career and Technical Education (CTE) for the Marion County School District. In this role, he provides leadership for secondary academic programs, oversees all CTE initiatives, and manages dual enrollment opportunities across the district, ensuring students have access to rigorous coursework and clear postsecondary pathways.
Bradley P. Van Dam is a Senior Vice President for Government Affairs at the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE). He also serves as the Executive Director of AAAE’s U.S. Contract Tower Association. Van Dam has represented airports before Congress and the administration since he joined AAAE in 2000. During his tenure at AAAE, Van Dam has managed the association’s FAA reauthorization efforts and developed its financing initiatives.
Prior to joining AAAE, Van Dam was a senior legislative aide to Senate Democratic Leader Thomas A. Daschle (D-SD). He advised the Democratic Leader on transportation, defense and foreign policy issues. Coupled with his tenure on Capitol Hill, Van Dam has more than 35 years of legislative experience in Washington, D.C.
Ryan Maxfield is a lifelong aviator and commercial pilot who began flying at the age of 15. Prior to founding Vantage Aviation, Ryan was a founding member of the Jet Access Group and acted in the capacity of Chief Revenue Officer and Partner. His entrepreneurial drive and strong business and sales acumen quickly established Jet Access as a preferred FBO chain, charter operator, 145-repair station, and premier flight training school.
Before entering the world of private aviation, he held multiple roles in aviation administration, including Chief Airport Inspector for the state of Indiana and Airfield/Operations Manager for the Indianapolis Airport Authority. Ryan holds a BS from Indiana State University with double majors in Professional Flight Technology and Aviation Administration. Ryan also holds an MBA from the University of Indianapolis and is a Certified Member of the American Association of Airport Executives. In 2017, Ryan was named 40 under 40 by Airport Business Magazine.
Hunter Boniface, PE is an Aviation Operations Manager with extensive experience supporting airport clients from planning through construction. He provides technical and operational leadership across design coordination, construction execution, and client management. By combining engineering precision with practical construction insight, Hunter helps airport leaders deliver resilient, constructable, and financially viable capital improvements.
Since graduating from Clemson University, Hunter has developed a strong and rapidly expanding knowledge of the aviation industry. He is recognized for his ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, building strong relationships and collaborating seamlessly with multidisciplinary teams.
Passionate about mentoring the next generation of aviation professionals, Hunter serves as an instructor for the Spartanburg Community Aviation Program (SCAP), where he introduces students to the day-to-day work of aviation engineers. He is especially committed to supporting young engineers and anyone with an interest in aviation. An avid outdoors enthusiast, Hunter brings energy and perspective to his work, making aviation a natural fit for his interests and strengths.
Zach DeVeau – coming soon!
Sebastian van Delden – coming soon!
Kevin Kyzer – coming soon!
Mark Bunch – coming soon!
Charles Taylor – coming soon!