Mike Nichols, who joined NBAA 18 years ago and has a hand in everything from policy and tax issues to strategy and innovation and management of ABACE, is retiring from the association on April 30, NBAA said yesterday. “Mike’s tireless work ethic and unwavering commitment to excellence have had a major impact on our association,” said NBAA president and CEO Ed Bolen. “His service over the past two decades has made us better in countless ways.”

Nichols currently is the association’s senior v-p of strategy and innovation and is tasked with exploring opportunities for emerging technologies relevant to business aviation; evaluating strategies to enhance existing programs, products, and services; and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within the association. He also is responsible for the NBAA professional development initiatives and educational offerings.

Over the years, however, his roles have varied. He joined NBAA in June 2003 as manager of tax and finance issues and then moved into positions including director of tax, economics, and operational services; v-p of operations, education, and economics; and v-p of operational excellence and professional development. And, for a number of years, he was responsible for the team that staged ABACE in Shanghai.

“Mike is exceptional,” added Bolen. “Whatever his future plans are, we hope he will stay involved in the business aviation community.”