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Auburn University Regional Airport (AUO)
As an Airport Management Intern at Auburn University Regional Airport, I gained hands-on experience in the daily operations, administration, and strategic management of a public-use airport. Working closely with airport leadership, I contributed to initiatives that supported operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and long-term development. My role involved assisting with day-to-day airport operations, ensuring a safe and efficient environment for passengers, flight crews, and stakeholders. I supported ongoing airport development and improvement projects through research, data analysis, and collaboration with university and external partners.
I also maintained operational records and contributed to internal reports and presentations used by airport administration for planning and decision-making. Through direct interaction with airport users, I developed strong customer service skills and gained insight into stakeholder needs, including those related to fixed-base operator (FBO) services. In addition, I strengthened my understanding of aviation regulations by assisting in compliance efforts at the local, state, and federal levels. This experience provided a comprehensive foundation in airport management and reinforced my interest in pursuing a career in airport administration.
During my internship at Auburn University Regional Airport, I completed a market rate and fee schedule analysis to evaluate how the airport’s existing pricing compared with similar airports and broader regional market conditions. The project required me to research comparable airports, analyze hangar and lease rates, examine local economic conditions, and consider trends in business aviation. I then used this information to identify areas where Auburn University Regional Airport's existing rates were below market and develop recommendations for future pricing adjustments. This experience strengthened my ability to turn market and operational data into practical recommendations for airport management. It also showed me that airport pricing decisions must balance competitiveness, customer impact, infrastructure needs, and long-term financial sustainability. As I pursue a career in airport administration, I will be able to apply these analytical and financial management skills when making decisions about airport assets, rates, and future development.
I also researched the potential use of an Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity contract for on-call professional services. I examined how peer airports use similar agreements and researched federal and Federal Aviation Administration requirements related to consultant selection, task orders, compensation, and project authorization. This project strengthened my understanding of public-sector procurement and showed me how airports can balance administrative efficiency with accountability and regulatory compliance. I also learned how an Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity can improve project readiness by allowing an airport to establish a relationship with qualified consultants before individual project needs arise. This experience gave me a better understanding of the administrative side of airport capital development and the importance of carefully managing contracts, funding, and professional services. As I pursue a career in airport administration, this knowledge will help me manage consultants and infrastructure projects more effectively.
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