From the Flight Deck

To understand the significance of Ben Garman’s new role with the Massachusetts Airport Management Association is to understand the significance of MAMA. The organization was founded in 1972 to promote and protect the interests of the general aviation community in the state. Its stated mission is “To promote general aviation by fostering a healthy state airport system.”

Or as Ben puts it, “MAMA’s goal is to promote the benefits of public use airports and general aviation.”

Ben approaches the mission from his experience of nearly 12 years with Shoreline Aviation, the fixed base operator of Marshfield Municipal Airport KGHG, on Massachusetts’ South Shore. Ben worked as a line service technician for Shoreline starting in 2013, when he began his studies at Bridgewater State University. He graduated cum laude in 2018 and went full time with Shoreline. His skills, knowledge and effort were rewarded three years ago when he was named Assistant Airport Manager.

And now he’s been appointed co-chair of MAMA’s Emerging Leaders Committee.

Marshfield Airport Assistant Manager Ben Garman. Photo courtesy of Ben Garman

“The Emerging Leaders Committee was formed in 2022 to continue development of MAMA by establishing a pipeline that engages professionals under 35 or with 10 years or less experience in the aviation industry,” Ben said. “Its core goal is to strengthen the commitment of the next generation of MAMA leaders to step into leadership roles.”

It’s important to realize that the Massachusetts Airport Management Association represents all 38 public use airports in the state. Members include airport managers, airport commissioners, engineering firms and vendors – all dedicated to the success of aviation throughout the state. Membership also includes governmental agencies: the New England Region of the FAA as well as the state Department of Transportation’s Aeronautics Division. So, there is much to embrace as leadership shifts over time.

“One of the Emerging Leaders goals is to expand our comfort zones,” Ben said. “Committee members bring in guest speakers to learn new aspects of the aviation field. I brought Jason (Marshfield Airport Manager Jason Tibbetts) in and we talked about snow removal processes at the airport. This was before I was named co-chair. We’re also establishing a mentorship program this year, with senior and younger people collaborating in the same roles.”

Marshfield Airport Assistant Manager Ben Garman holds the ramp gate for Shoreline Aviation line chief Steve Dery.

MAMA Board member and Emerging Leaders Committee liaison/advisor David Dinneen is a fan.

“The Emerging Leader Committee is focused on cultivating future leaders in the airport management field. Ben has supported the development of this critical committee, serving as a founder, active participant, and co-chair,” he said. “He is tasked with reporting monthly to update the MAMA board on the committee’s status, including strategic direction and supporting the monthly meetings. He also supports the MAMA Conference Committee by allowing emerging leaders to moderate at the annual conferences. Ben has also moderated at several past conference presentations.”

Beginning his co-chair role in January, Ben has jumped into the leadership position. He presented to the MAMA membership at its recent quarterly meeting, offering an overview of what his committee has been working on the past year, including updates on their mentorship program. And the parent organization is looking for help in marketing, especially with the website (soon to be replaced). “Also,” he said, “we’re looking to colleges such as Bridgewater State University and Cape Cod Community College to engage younger workers in the aviation industry.”

BSU has a vibrant Aviation Science Department. And CCCC offers Aviation Maintenance Technology programs at its Plymouth Municipal Airport facility. MAMA is based at Plymouth.

Marshfield Airport Assistant Manager Ben Garman fuels a Shoreline managed fleet Citation 560XL jet.

Ben says he is applying this experience at Shoreline. “It’s a way to help, especially with airport projects – to see what other airports are doing and get ideas for doing things here. It’s a way to network among companies and agencies – we also get briefings on FAA and MassDOT Aeronautics. I bring ideas back to Keith (Shoreline President Keith Douglass) and Jason.”

“It’s truly inspiring to witness his growth as a leader,” David said. “He has shown remarkable initiative and a genuine ability to bring people together. Ben has taken on responsibility, coupled with a thoughtful approach, while empowering those around him. It speaks volumes about his character. I’m excited to support him as he moves forward in his aviation career.”

Ben and Airport Manager Tibbetts also attend monthly Airport Commission meetings and give reports on daily operations. At the May meeting Ben will present on equipment maintenance steps taken with the array of machinery on hand for property upkeep. And he’s looking forward to participating in the MAMA annual conference, to be held on the Cape in October.

“I’m excited and proud of what we’ve accomplished on the Emerging Leaders Committee,” Ben said. “Helping young professionals is a great role. And I love mentoring here at Shoreline, helping people to do their jobs. I’m still learning as I go. I may fall and probably trip, but it’s making me better in my profession.

“I’m thankful and appreciative of the support I have at Shoreline and from my family. I’ve had great managers and awesome coworkers who have helped me get to where I am today. Everyone is so helpful with young professionals.”

Cover photo: Marshfield Airport Assistant Manager Ben Garman updates the MAMA membership at its quarterly meeting in April. Photo courtesy of David Dinneen