Laura Canham, MBA
Aviation Planning Project Manager
McFarland-Johnson Inc.
Age 39
Laura Canham is an accomplished leader in aviation, blending technical expertise and innovative vision with a commitment to mentorship and advocacy. With a Bachelor’s in Aviation Management, an MBA in Finance, and 16 years of experience in airport planning, Canham is well-positioned as a pioneering voice in the industry.
Her unique perspective as both an airport planner and licensed pilot enables her to tackle complex planning challenges with user-focused insights. As McFarland Johnson’s New England Aviation Planning lead, she established herself as a subject matter expert and has spearheaded key projects that highlight her technical prowess and leadership abilities.
“Aviation is constantly evolving and it is always motivating finding solutions to challenging problems the industry is facing,” she said. “The continuous focus on safety for airports, the Federal Aviation Administration, and airlines to try to find more environmentally friendly sources of fuel, energy, and fire fighting foam helps me feel like I am part of something that helps the greater good.”
Canham’s professional achievements underscore her role as an industry innovator. She led the creation of McFarland Johnson’s Dynamic Analysis Tool and coordinated the inaugural Innovation Track for the 2024 ACC/AAAE Planning, Design & Construction Symposium, promoting fresh perspectives within the field. She was co-host and Executive Producer of the Airport Consultants Council’s “The Hold Room” podcast, where Canham championed accessible industry insights, incorporating transcriptions to support the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Her expertise also extends to advanced technical projects, including the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport’s Geometry Study, which resulted in initiatives to enhance airport safety and efficiency.
Beyond her professional achievements, Canham demonstrates a dedication to the industry’s future. She mentors employees at McFarland Johnson and contributes to Women in Transportation (WTS-Boston) as Director and Board Liaison, fostering diversity and supporting upcoming leaders.
