More than 24 years after he landed the job as the Friedman Memorial Airport Manager, Rick Baird is turning in his wings. Next on the horizon: retirement.



Everyone who has worked with Rick has nothing but respect for his accomplishments and ability to lead. Through the years he has maintained a sense of humor and has encouraged his staff with a supportive, family style, atmosphere. Whether it's personal or professional, Rick's door is always open.



If you ask him about his accomplishments, he won't easily take credit, instead he will direct you toward his staff. "They are the ones who run the airport," Rick often states.

The reality is, his entire team has benefited from his ability to meet challenges head on and successfully lead them to the finish line.



Rick has fostered respectful relationships with local community leaders and airport neighbors, even those who don't support the airport. Many people have stood in public meetings, often angry, to discourage further airport development or to complain about noise. Those complaints are often followed by expressions of appreciation toward Rick for the time he spends listening to each individuals concern and viewpoint.



Rick can begin his retirement with a sense of pride knowing he leaves behind an airport and management that will continue to evolve and meet the needs of the community it serves for a long time to come. We wish him well and wish to express our sincere gratitude for his loyalty and the personal interest he has invested in our airport community.