AvCon 2024: The Future of Aviation, a groundbreaking event scheduled for November in Baldonnel, aiming to introduce over 6,000 students from secondary and tertiary levels, with a focus on Transition Year students, to the world of aviation, aerospace, STEM, and engineering.
The event endeavours to address the skills gap in the aviation industry by promoting it as a promising career path, showcasing opportunities not only for pilots and engineers but also for professionals in various roles within the aviation sector, such as chefs and accountants.
A corporate launch event for AvCon will be held today at The Times Building in Dublin, hosted by the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) and Aviation Skillnet, featuring a special appearance by Minister for Transport, James Lawless.
AvCon 2024 is anticipated to be a transformative experience, offering insight into the future of aviation careers and aiming to inspire the next generation of aviation professionals, providing a valuable opportunity for readers to engage and learn about the event.
Speakers on November 7 wil include:
- Anthony Attoumani: Senior aeronautical engineer with extensive experience in designing and certifying aeronautical engineering solutions, leading the Design Organization at Atlantic Aviation Group.
- Ruth Bagnell: Key figure in Irish aviation as an Airworthiness Inspector, leveraging over two decades of experience to ensure aircraft compliance with safety standards and regulations, actively engaged in promoting safety and industry relationships.
- Karl Bowe: Versatile entertainment professional with experience in acting, modelling, hosting, and presenting, currently starring in RTE’s Fair City.2. Ally Garvey: Fashion and media industry expert known for delivering the latest showbiz news to diverse audiences, with a passion for engaging with co-presenters and live audiences.
- Wayne Denner: Seasoned expert in Online Safety, Cybersecurity, Marketing, and Communications, recognized for empowering individuals and organizations to protect their digital assets and reputations.
- Kim Mackenzie-Doyle: CEO of The B!G Idea, a non-profit empowering youth to tackle global challenges through innovative educational platforms and partnerships promoting real-world problem-solving.
- John Drysdale: Business Development Manager at Shannon Airport Group overseeing Aviation Services Cluster, advocating for unmanned aircraft and mentoring young aviators.
- Valentina Fitzpatrick: Aviation professional specialising in ground handling operations and safety-critical procedures, founder of The European Aviation Wellbeing Alliance promoting mental health in aviation.
- Julie Garland: Founder and CEO of Avtrain, a leading drone training and consultancy firm, deeply involved in drone regulation and safety, with a background as an Airline Training Captain and Barrister.
- Lorcan Geraghty: Mechanical Engineering student and founder of EirSpace, Ireland’s first college-level student rocket team, advocating for increased support for student-led engineering teams.
- Elaine Harding: Aerospace tech leader and CEO of AugmentAero, integrating AR and AI into aircraft maintenance to enhance safety, efficiency, and profitability in the aviation industry.
- Bobby Healy: Tech entrepreneur with a background in airline tech and drone delivery systems, aiming to make suburban deliveries affordable, green, and safe.
- Gerry Humphreys: Accomplished aviator with over 40 years of experience, serving as Deputy Head of Training and Chairman of the General Aviation Safety Council of Ireland, known for upholding high standards in pilot training.
- Paul Kennedy: Head of Aviation Infrastructure at the Irish Aviation Authority, overseeing Air Traffic Management and Aerodromes, with a background in Air Traffic Control and Safety Assessment.
- Ian Kiely: CEO of Drone Space Ltd, a drone specialist with a focus on developing new concepts and sensor applications, advocating for protecting the planet and mentoring aspiring innovators.
- Jane Magill: Co-founder of Shannon Aviation Museum and CEO of AAV Aviation Technical Services Training, passionate about preserving aviation heritage and supporting women in aviation.
- Jason Phelan: Passionate aviation enthusiast promoting charitable initiatives through ‘The Adventures of Capt Paddy & Lucky,’ supporting LauraLynn Children’s Hospice and Dogs Trust Ireland through aviation adventures.
- Nicola Ni Riada: Air Traffic Controller with over 30 years of operational experience, focusing on recruitment and promoting the ATCO career in Ireland, actively involved in aviation education and diversity initiatives.
- Rory O’Connor: Brigadier General and chief of the air crops who will lead the upcoming Aviation Convention hosted by the Irish Air Corps, celebrating the dynamic world of aviation and inspiring the next generation of aviators and innovators.
- Neal Skelton: Passionate professional at Belfast City Airport, dedicated to Airside Operations training and safety, with a focus on enhancing the experience of employees and passengers.
