CHAD NEWTON CONFIRMED AS NEW CEO OF DETROIT WAYNE COUNTY AIRPORT AUTHORITY

Chad Newton has been confirmed as the new CEO of Wayne County Airport Authority (WCAA), operator of Detroit Metropolitan and Willow Run airports.

The WCAA board voted to appoint him CEO last November and his appointment was approved yesterday.

He becomes the airport authority's first permanent CEO since the departure of Joseph Nardone this time last year.

“I look forward to working with such a dynamic and forward thinker as our new CEO Chad Newton,” enthused WCAA's Board chair, Nabih Ayad. 

“With over two decades of serving Detroit Metropolitan Airport, Newton not only brings experience and leadership to the table, but an understanding of the importance of diversity and inclusion in leveling the playing field for all citizens of this region. Chad simply gets it.”



Newton says: “It is an honour to know the Board of Directors has confidence in the nearly 30 years I’ve spent in law enforcement, including 20 years at Detroit Metro Airport. 

"I look forward to using my knowledge and experience as our team continues to improve the customer experience, collaborate with our stakeholders, support small businesses and give back to our community.”

Newton is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and an Accredited Airport Executive (AAE). He is one of approximately 500 airport executives in the United States and the first WCAA CEO to hold this title. 

According to WCAA, the AAE certification is the highest level of accreditation granted by American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) to aviation professionals who have demonstrated their ability to handle the responsibilities of airport management.

“I had the pleasure of getting to know Chad while mentoring him through the AAAE Accreditation Program,” said Bishop International Airport Authority's airport director, Craig Williams, AAE.

“His professionalism throughout the process impressed me and I am sure that will carry over to his role at Metro. I look forward to working together with Chad to further aviation and airports in Michigan."

Highlights of Newton’s career at Detroit Metropolitan Airport include successfully managing the January 2017 protest ofthe United States Presidential Executive Order banning entry into the country and receiving the 2018 TSA Partnership Award. 

He also implemented initiatives to diversify WCAA’s Public Safety Division.

“In Romulus, we know first hand how crucial it is to have good leadership at the airport authority. Chad Newton has a proven history of integrity and customer service at WCAA,” said Mayor LeRoy Burcroff of Romulus, Michigan.

“Since his interim appointment as CEO, we have had unprecedented response to our questions and concerns.We appreciate the airport authority as an important community partner and look forward to continuing our strong working relationship with Chad in the future.”