The National Air Transportation Association (NATA) is transitioning its leadership with the decision of executive v-p Ryan Waguespack to leave the association in a full-time capacity at the end of this month to pursue another opportunity. Waguespack, however, has agreed to remain engaged with the association as a senior advisor effective June 30.

Along with the transition, NATA last month announced the promotion of Keith DeBerry from senior v-p of safety and education to COO and Karen Huggard to v-p of government affairs. In addition, the association retained FAA and industry veteran Ken Thompson as a senior advisor for maintenance.

Waguespack joined NATA in November 2018 as senior v-p of aircraft, management, and MROs, and has since led the association’s efforts to combat illegal charter, helped raised awareness of aviation businesses at general aviation airports, facilitated new safety collaborations, and oversaw the expansion of NATA’s training platforms.

“Ryan has been and will continue to be an important connection between the association and the aviation business industry. He has brought unmatched energy, enthusiasm, and industry insight to NATA’s efforts for many years and has worked tirelessly to make meaningful progress on multiple fronts,” said NATA president and CEO Timothy Obitts.

While Waguespack’s full-time employment at NATA is concluding, Obitts added, “his engagement in and focus on fostering a vibrant and healthy ecosystem for all in the industry will live on. The entire NATA staff looks forward to furthering Ryan’s efforts alongside him in this new role.”

NATA will honor Waguespack during its annual meeting being held tomorrow in conjunction with the NATA Aviation Leadership Conference.