Michael A. Gula, A.A.E.
Age: 34
Director of Operations, Planning & Facilities
Columbia Metropolitan Airport, South Carolina
- Alma Mater: Bowling Green State University
- Favorite TV Show: Modern Family
- Favorite Movie: Top Gun
- Favorite Hobby: Fishing and Hunting (Equally)
Michael Gula was originally going to college to become a professional pilot. “But as part of the overall curriculum, airport management courses were required. I enjoyed the management courses and decided to pursue a degree in aviation management,” he said.
Gula enjoys all parts of his current job. “The one thing I enjoy the most is the mentoring of the up-and-coming managers of the future. I enjoy working in a team setting and want to see my staff have the same opportunities that I have been fortunate enough to have in my career so far,” he said. “I currently have a rather young management team, so it is exciting to see them progress both personally and professionally.”
As the industry progresses, Gula would like to see a long-term FAA reauthorization bill put into effect. “As part of this, I believe it is important to remove the current PFC cap so airports around the country can provide better facilities and improve airside infrastructure,” he said. “The cost of capital improvements continues to escalate while the PFC collections [have been] capped at $4.50 since 2000.”
The aviation industry is unique in so many different ways, said Gula. “The one thing that I enjoy most about the industry is that new challenges will always exist on a day-to-day basis,” he said. “This industry will continue to change and evolve so it is exciting to be a part of the current changes and those that are forthcoming.”
