Construction Update: Michigan Department of Transportation will begin construction of I-96 to 36th Street. This will result in closures of I-96 to 36th Street ramps, affecting travel to/from the airport starting tentatively November 4. Please plan ahead for any potential traffic delays after this date. View construction updates here.
February 23rd 2011 | Written By Press Release | Share

Ford Airport Director Recognized for 20 Years of Service

At today’s regularly-scheduled monthly meeting of the Kent County Aeronautics Board, the Board formally recognized Jim Koslosky, A.A.E., Executive Director of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport, for his 20 years of service as Ford Airport director. Jim began his service at Ford International in March of 1991, having served previously as Executive Director of the Fort Wayne - Allen County Airport Authority in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

During his public remarks regarding Jim’s years of service as Executive Director, Aeronautics Board Chairman Joe Tomaselli referred to several of the milestones that have marked Jim’s tenure as director:

  • The Airport has grown from 1.4 million annual passengers to almost 2.2 million annual passengers over the past 20 years
  • As Executive Director, Jim has overseen hundreds of millions of dollars in airport infrastructure development, including the largest single development project in the airport’s history: the Terminal Area and Parking Improvement Program, including the four-story, 4,700-space parking ramp
  • Jim has been the recipient of several industry awards, including:
    • Michigan Aeronautics Commission Award of Excellence
    • Michigan Association of Airport Executives Presidents Awards
    • Michigan Association of Airport Executives Airport Manager of the Year
    • American Association of Airport Executives Distinguished Service Award

Additionally, Jim’s professional affiliations include:

  • Past National Chairman, American Association of Airport Executives
  • Board of Directors, International Association of Airport Executives
  • Chair, Grand Valley Metro Council Transportation Policy Committee
  • Past Chairman and Board Member, Experience Grand Rapids

“Jim is a credit to this airport, this industry, and this community,” commented Board Chairman Tomaselli. “Jim has the full confidence and support of this Board, and we thank him for his dedication, his enthusiasm, and his character as a leader.”

Topics: Press Release, Airport Authority, Achievements