Zack Oakley ~ RFD Chicago Rockford Int'l Airport

**COME HEAR WHAT IS HAPPENING AT THE CHICAGO ROCKFORD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT**

RFD Executive Director Zack Oakley will be our guest speaker

Zack was born and raised in Rockford (township) and graduated from Winnebago High School. After High School he worked on the Air Cargo Ramp at United Parcel Service (UPS) for two years while attending Rock Valley College. He then transferred to Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC) and received a BS in Aviation Management and flight as well as his private pilot’s license. He continued his education and obtained a MS in Aerospace Operations and Management.
In his previous role as the Deputy Director of Operations and Planning, he was responsible for oversite of the Operations, Maintenance, Terminal, and Business Development Departments. He worked closely with Federal, State, and Local regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with all laws and regulations. He also worked with RFD’s Airlines to address their current needs and future business plans.

Executive Experience:
• 2006 - 2008 GRAA Operations and Facilities Technician
• 2008 - 2012 GRAA Operations and Facilities Supervisor
• 2012 - 2017 GRAA Operations Manager
• 2017 – 2023 GRAA Deputy Director of Operations and Planning
• 2024 - Present GRAA Executive Director, Greater Rockford Airport Authority
   Business Boards and Community Organizations:
• American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE)
• Ken Rock Community Center Board of Directors
• Airport’s Council International Member
• Illinois Airport Council Member
• Named 2018 Airport Business Magazine 40 under 40
• 2011 Leadership Rockford program

Education:
• Winnebago High School, Winnebago, IL
• Rock Valley College, Rockford, IL
• Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL – BS in Aviation Management, Private Pilot’s License
• Embry Riddle Aeronautical University – MS in Aerospace Operations and Management