Annual event acknowledging Charles Durham, one of the founders of the Aviation Institute. Each year, a distinguished speaker is invited to receive recognition for their contributions to the aviation industry.

Join us as we honor Lauris Mikelsons, Vice President of Compliance and Safety at airBaltic, who will be our acclaimed keynote speaker. We extend our warm invitation to you for this great event and ask that you RSVP here if you plan on attending!

Lauris Mikelsons is a distinguished figure in the Latvian aviation industry and beyond, with over two decades of expertise in aviation management, safety and compliance. His aviation journey began during undergraduate studies at the Aviation Institute, University of Nebraska at Omaha, where he pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Aviation Engineering through a student exchange program with Riga Aviation University, Latvia. Lauris gained vital knowledge in airline operations, flight safety, and human factors during his time in Omaha, enhanced by interactions with industry lecturers and immersive visits to aviation establishments. Noteworthy experiences include participation in UNO Flying Mavs, spending a day with senior management at Eppley Airfield, exploring Denver International Airport, and completing a summer apprenticeship at Hangar One in Millard Airport. These experiences laid the groundwork for his distinguished professional and academic pursuits in aviation.

Learn More About Lauris