Airport Authority Administration & Board Members

A 36,000-foot View 

• Most Cherished Travel Memory: Family vacations to Cancun

• Favorite Spot at the Ford Airport: Anywhere at the airport, but the airfield is exciting!

• Best Travel Advice: Pack a carry-on

Torrance “Tory” Richardson, A.A.E. is the Gerald R. Ford International Airport’s president and CEO, overseeing all functions and activities of Michigan’s second-busiest airport. He is also responsible for developing and implementing the Ford Airport’s strategic vision, including long-term plans for future development, infrastructure improvement, guest growth and other initiatives.

Successful in guiding airports through significant change and boosting regions’ economic vitality, Tory is leading the Authority’s Project Elevate, a revolutionary expansion of the Airport to accommodate passenger growth that includes adding nonstop international commercial flights. He has managed numerous airport functions during his long aviation career, from HR and operations to government affairs and strategy. He started out as an airport maintenance worker doing lighting, airfield, asphalt and concrete repairs.

Prior to joining the Ford Airport in 2019, he was Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Columbus Regional Airport Authority, which oversees three airports in central Ohio: John Glenn Columbus International Airport, Rickenbacker International Airport and Bolton Field. During his tenure, passenger traffic grew 33% to more than 8.4 million travelers while freight increased 91% to more than 300 million pounds. He previously served as the Columbus Regional Airport Authority’s chief strategy officer and vice president of human resources, government affairs and strategy. Before that, he was executive director of airports for the Fort Wayne-Allen County Airport Authority, which includes Fort Wayne International Airport and Smith Field Airport. He also was executive director and operations director at Rapid City Regional Airport and an operations specialist and maintenance worker at Dubuque Regional Airport in Iowa.

Tory is past Chair of the American Association of Airport Executives and is past President of the Great Lakes Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives. He also has held leadership positions with the Airports Council International-North America and is past President of the Ohio Aviation Association. He has a bachelor of science degree in aviation management from the University of Dubuque.

A 36,000-foot View

• Most Cherished Travel Memory: Connecting my family to my Eastern European roots
• Favorite Spot at the Ford Airport: 'A Touch of Grand Rapids' shop, which is a great place to pick up a Beer City gift before I visit friends
• Best Travel Advice: Get to the Airport early!

Alexander Peric, A.A.E., manages the daily operations of the Airport Authority by directing facilities, engineering and planning, public safety, business, information technology and operations functions. He is charged with being the catalyst for the Authority’s growth in business development, economic development, non-aeronautical revenue and innovation. He ensures that all Airport facilities and operations comply with federal, state and local rules and regulations. Additionally, Alex serves as President and CEO in Tory’s absence. As the integrator of the team, Alex works to hold the Authority accountable and helps each department work harmoniously while executing its high-level plans.

In 2019, Alex was named one of Michigan’s Most Valuable Professionals by Corp! Magazine, a reflection of his steadfast economic development ingenuity and innovative business modeling. In 2013, he was named to the Top 40 under 40 by Airport Business Magazine. Alex has also worked tirelessly to enhance the air service development program at the Ford Airport, which has been well received by airline partners, resulting in significant additions to the Airport’s route map.

Prior to joining the Ford Airport in 2017, Alex was Vice President of Business Development and Properties for the Allegheny County Airport Authority in Pittsburgh. While there, he was responsible for all business-related matters for the airport system, which includes Pittsburgh International Airport and Allegheny County Airport, as well as management and development of 9,000 acres of land, 3.5 million square feet of commercial facilities, concessions and innovative revenue strategies. Additionally, he also served in business development and management roles for the cities of Cleveland and Phoenix airport systems and Continental Airlines.

Alex’s diverse background within the aviation industry includes strategic roles in airline relations, business management, real estate, operations, project management, revenue development, negotiations, risk management and data analysis.

Alex earned his bachelor’s degree and pilot license in aviation management with minor in management information systems from Kent State University and master’s degree in labor relations and human resources from Cleveland State University. He is an accredited airport executive with the American Association of Airport Executives and a member of the Airports Council International North America, National Association of Industrial and Office Properties and Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association.

A 36,000-foot View

• Most Cherished Travel Memory: Traveling to Disney Land for the first time.
• Favorite Spot at the Ford Airport: Site 9 – one of the Airport’s available real estate parcels. Although empty now, Stephen envisions the future of business in West Michigan growing there.
• Best Travel Advice: Noise-cancelling headphones can minimize post-flight fatigue, helping you arrive at your destination more relaxed and refreshed.

Stephen Clark, C.M. is principally entrusted with developing and growing all lines of aeronautical and non-aeronautical business, including air service, concessions, commercial properties, real estate, air cargo and fixed-base operators. He oversees marketing and communications and guest experience. Additionally, he provides oversight of the Airport’s ground transportation system and parking garage and manages the Airport’s insurance and risk management program.

During his time at Ford Airport, he’s worked on and spearheaded a number of high-profile projects, including being on the team that secured an Allegiant Airlines maintenance base – a $42.6 million investment that created more than 100 new jobs for the region. During the pandemic, Stephen has accepted additional responsibility and now leads communication and marketing for the Airport – working to ensure guests are aware of exciting new initiatives and improvements that make the Ford Airport a superior travel experience. Stephen not only works to put the Ford Airport on the map locally, but also globally. Stephen participates in various industry groups to ensure the region can compete for global opportunities.

Prior to joining the Ford Airport team in 2018, Stephen worked in a variety of aviation-based roles, including director of marketing and technology for Immaculate Flight. During his time there, he helped grow the company to more than $10 million in annual revenue with 115 locations around the country. He started his aviation career as a ramp agent at Spokane Airways and then later at Horizon Airlines. He worked his way up through various positions, including shift supervisor at SkyWest Airlines and aircraft load agent at Delta Air Lines, giving him a full understanding of the intricacies of an airport.

Stephen is a past recipient of the Delta Air Lines Gaining Altitude Award and GFIAA Soaring Award. He has a bachelor of science in aviation from Utah Valley University.

A 36,000-foot View

• Most Cherished Travel Memory: Hiking the trails of Glacier National Park as a family.
• Favorite Spot at the Ford Airport: The Airport Viewing Park on Kraft just north of 52nd.
• Best Travel Advice: Be open-minded and make flying part of the experience, not just a necessity of vacation or a business trip. Look up from your cell phone and enjoy the airport and airplanes.

Casey Ries, P. E., LEED AP ensures the Gerald R. Ford International Airport’s indoor and outdoor physical spaces are ready and able to support guest and aircraft activities. Casey is responsible for engineering, planning and environmental functions at the Ford Airport. His duties involve monitoring, maintaining, planning and updating buildings, runways, facilities and other infrastructure to keep pace with growth projections. Casey also plans and administers the capital improvement program, supports sustainability initiatives, ensures compliance with permits and provides engineering guidance for airport operations and maintenance.

During his time at the Ford Airport, Casey has been instrumental in leading three key projects: Gateway Transformation, a $50 million investment that reimagined the guest experience, Reconstruction and Expansion of the Terminal Apron and Project Elevate, including the upcoming $90 million expansion of Concourse A.

Prior to assuming his current role in 2017, Casey served as the Airport’s engineering manager, leading the engineering team of airport staff, consultants and contractors to execute airside and landside capital development projects. An expert in construction and airport project management, Casey has worked on projects with the Michigan Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Agency, the Department of Defense and airports across Michigan.

Casey earned his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Michigan Technological University. In 2013, he was named Engineer of the Year by the Michigan Society of Professional Engineers Capital Area Chapter. Casey is a licensed professional engineer, certified industrial stormwater operator and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional. Additionally, he is a member of the Airport Cooperative Research Program, where he serves as Chair and Panel member, Airports Council International North America Environmental Committee, National Society of Professional Engineers and American Society of Professional Engineers. He serves as vice president for the Grand Ledge Robotics Club and is a chapter coordinator for the MATHCOUNTS program.

A 36,000-foot View

• Favorite Spot at the Ford Airport: On the airfield; by far the coolest place to be.
• Best Travel Advice: Fly smart, be patient and flexible. Always have a carry on with essential items for a minimum of one full day. The last thing you want to do is spend your first day being stressed about shopping for clothes.

Lisa M. Carr, C.M., P.E.M. is responsible for developing and implementing short- and long-range plans, policies, protocols and standard operating procedures to ensure the safe, secure and efficient operation of the Airport. Her critical role also ensures the Airport is in compliance with Federal Aviation Administration, Transportation Security Administration and all other federal, state and local regulations governing airport operations. In addition to serving as Ford Airport’s Emergency Manager, Lisa oversees police, fire, operations and communications personnel and is proud to work with a wonderful, engaged and knowledgeable staff.

Prior to assuming her current position in 2015, Lisa served as the Director of Operations for the Capital Region International Airport in Lansing. While there, she was responsible for security and operations, also overseeing FAA and TSA regulations. She additionally served as the Airport Security Coordinator and Trusted Agent in her relationship with TSA. She also served as Emergency Manager, working with Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division. Lisa began her 20-year career at the Lansing Airport as an operations officer, assuming new leadership roles and responsibilities as a manager and supervisor before becoming a director.

Lisa has an immense knowledge of safety within the aviation industry as well as strong relationships with federal and state partners. Her career path from operations officer, with responsibilities in the communications center and later in airfield operations, to director has given her tremendous hands-on experience addressing safety issues in every facet of the airport operations.

Lisa earned her bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University and associate’s degree from Kirkland Community College. She is a member of the Airports Council International North America where she serves as the second chair of the public safety and security committee. Additionally, she is a certified member with the American Association of Airport Executives and the Michigan Association of Airport Executives.

Professional Development  

• American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), Certified member
• Michigan Association of Airport Executives (MAAE), Member
• Airports Council International North America (ACI-NA), Member
• ACI Public Safety and Security Committee, U.S. Second Vice Chair 2021
• Professional Emergency Manager (PEM) with the Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division

A 36,000-foot View

• Most Cherished Travel Memory: Doing a seven-day guided tour through Ireland with my family.
• Favorite Spot at the Ford Airport: The Observation Deck.
• Best Travel Advice: Getting there is half the fun so enjoy the journey. Don’t stress about unexpected delays or detours. Some of the most interesting people I have ever met have been on layovers or detours.

Maureen Lynch, PHR, SHRM-CP, HRPM is responsible for the effective planning, design and development of human resource-related initiatives that support the organization’s strategic goals. She leads performance management, talent assessments and labor relations, including negotiating and administering labor agreements. Additionally, she consults with management on strategic staffing plans, compensation, benefits, training and development, budget and developing and maintaining a healthy work culture.

With more than 20 years of human resources experience, including a background in environmental health and safety, Maureen has vast knowledge of what constitutes a healthy and thriving workplace. She has experience in a wide variety of industries, including medical and manufacturing. Prior to joining the Ford Airport, Maureen served as the Senior Human Resources Business Partner at Viant Medical where she implemented a new applicant tracking system and developed an interview process that significantly reduced turnover and temporary labor.

Prior to that, Maureen served seven years as Human Resources Manager for Flexco Grand Rapids. During her time, she implemented talent management programs and other performance and wellness initiatives, which helped the company become one of 101 Best and Brightest Companies to work for in West Michigan. Additionally, she served as the Human Resources and Environmental Health and Safety Project Manager for Ventra and Meridian Automotive Systems.

Maureen has previously served on the leadership team of Discover Manufacturing, a regional network of hundreds of manufacturers who are committed to addressing the short- and long-term talent needs of West Michigan’s manufacturing industry, as well as regional co-chair of Region 4 Manufacturing Day.  

Maureen earned her bachelor’s degree in political science and government from Lake Superior State University. She is a certified human resources project manager through the American Academy of Project Management, a certified professional for the Society for Human Resource Management and DiSC Facilitator, as well as a professional in Human Resources ®.

A 36,000-foot View 

• Most Cherished Travel Memory: Visiting Gettysburg. On a whim, my wife and I decided to drive there after our trip to Washington D.C.
• Favorite Spot at the Ford Airport: Without a doubt, the airfield – especially with the car windows down and listening to the FAA radio.
• Best Travel Advice: Arrive early! Although, I don’t always take my own advice, it sets the tone for the trip. This allow me to ease into vacation mode and be adaptable to any changes along the way.

Kevin Delaney, C.M., A.C.E. leads the Airport Authority’s maintenance efforts, ensuring the safe and efficient upkeep of all Airport-owned facilities, assets and fleet. With extensive experience in airport maintenance operations, Kevin directs the team responsible for keeping the infrastructure of the Ford Airport ready to serve airline partners and guests.

In his role, Kevin oversees the Airport’s entire 3,100-acre campus of Airport-owned terminal buildings, concourses, warehouses, air cargo facilities, structures, garages, roadways, grounds, runways and taxiways, guest mobility and baggage handling systems, as well as its snow removal operations, landscaping, preventative maintenance, public access technologies, HVAC and all associated power and electrical systems.

He also oversees the airport’s asset management and maintenance programs, ensuring airport operations and maintenance procedures are in compliance with federal regulations, as well as monitoring and managing contractor performance.

Kevin joins the Ford Airport after spending seven years at the Detroit Metropolitan Airport, where he served as deputy director of airfield operations, then deputy director of compliance and safety. In these roles, he oversaw the airport’s operating procedures, identified and minimized liabilities as well as ensured airfield operations were in compliance with federal regulations. Prior to his arrival in Detroit, Kevin served in various leadership positions at airports in Cleveland, Oklahoma City, McCall, Idaho and White Plains, New York.

 In addition to his technical experience, Kevin is an adjunct professor at Kent State University, teaching airport operations for the school’s College of Aeronautics and Engineering.

Kevin holds certifications from the Airports Council International, American Association of Airport Executives and Occupational Safety and Health Administration. He is an advocate for helping others and volunteers at Fish & Loaves Community Pantry and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. Kevin holds a bachelor’s degree in aviation and business management from Daniel Webster College in Nashua, New Hampshire.