The West Virginia Airport Managers Association (WVAMA) recently welcomed aviation professionals, industry partners, government leaders, educators and aviation enthusiasts from across the region to the 2026 West Virginia Aviation Conference.
The event took place July 26-28 at The Resort at Glade Springs.
The annual conference serves as West Virginia's premier gathering for the aviation community, providing an opportunity to share ideas, strengthen partnerships, and explore the latest developments shaping aviation throughout the state and beyond.
"Our annual conference is more than an educational event — it's an opportunity to bring together the people and organizations who are working every day to strengthen aviation across West Virginia," said Nicolas Diehl, President of the West Virginia Airport Managers Association and CEO of the Eastern West Virginia Regional Airport.
This year's conference featured presentations and discussions on a wide range of topics, including federal and state aviation updates, airport development opportunities, aviation fuel markets, workforce development, advanced air mobility, economic development, higher education aviation pathways, aviation business trends and funding opportunities.
Attendees heard from experts representing federal and state agencies, airport organizations, engineering firms, aviation businesses, and industry leaders.
In addition to educational sessions, the conference provided networking opportunities that connect airport managers, consultants, elected officials, pilots, educators, aviation businesses, and public-sector partners who share a commitment to advancing aviation in West Virginia.
A highlight of this year's conference was the Celebration of West Virginia Aviation Excellence Dinner July 27. During the event, the WVAMA recognized the recipients of the Shawn Stewart and Shawn Tucker Memorial Scholarship (see sidebar) honoring students pursuing careers in aviation, and inducted the newest members into the West Virginia Aviation Hall of Fame. The evening also celebrated the individuals whose dedication, innovation, and service have helped shape aviation throughout the Mountain State.
"From airport development and workforce initiatives to emerging technologies and honoring those who have paved the way, this conference reflects the collaboration and commitment that continues to move our aviation community forward,†Diehl said.
For more information about the WVAMA, visit www.wvama.org or follow the organization on Facebook.
