Jay Evans, NBAA’s director of professional development and 23-year veteran of the organization, will retire at the beginning of January. Evans has been involved in NBAA’s educational and training efforts since 1995, including the development of the certified aviation manager (CAM) credential, professional development program, and scholarship offerings. Additionally, Evans launched NBAA’s flight attendants committee, which led to the evolution of the flight attendant and flight technicians conference.

“Every day, Jay brought tireless commitment, unfailing discipline and deep concern for others to his work,” said NBAA president and CEO Ed Bolen. “He is widely regarded as one of the most principled and conscientious colleagues many of us have known. Even as he moves on, his many contributions continue to shape the lives and careers of business aviation’s dynamic workforce.”

After a 22-year career in the U.S. Air Force, Evans left as a lieutenant colonel. He earned his bachelor’s degree from East Carolina University and a master’s from Auburn University in public administration. Evans also holds an ATP certificate and is a CFI with more than 5,000 hours of flight time. His flying career includes flights with with more than two dozen Young Eagle aviators.

Evans has served as staff liaison to NBAA’s business aviation management committee and has devoted efforts to developing the schedulers and dispatchers committee. The NBAA scholarship program was expanded from one $5,000 award to more than $100,000 worth of annual awards under his guidance. Evans’ retirement from NBAA will mark an aviation career that spanned 45 years.

“For over two decades, Jay has established and upheld the standard for professionalism in business aviation,” said Bolen. “He has been transformative in our industry, lighting the path of career development and training for a broad range of professional careers in the industry. We thank Jay for his many years of leadership and service.”