At our June Monthly Member Briefing, members heard from Larry Krauter, CEO of CVG Airport and Doug Bowling, Dean of Engineering Technologies at Cincinnati State, two leaders shaping the region’s economic future through aviation innovation, infrastructure development, and workforce growth.
CVG’s Economic Impact and Federal Priorities
Larry Krauter, CEO of CVG Airport, opened the session with an exciting update on the airport’s growth and future vision. From new nonstop routes to Portland, Oregon; Gulf Shores, Alabama; Montreal; and Punta Cana, to the $220 million overhaul of the airport’s baggage handling system, CVG is preparing for the next era of travel and cargo transport.
The airport has been ranked the #1 medium-sized airport in North America for customer service, and its growing cargo hub—powered by Amazon and DHL—is expanding rapidly. DHL is currently constructing a new $26 million maintenance hangar, part of a larger trend in the growth of maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations, projected to increase 32% in the region.
Krauter also laid out CVG’s top federal advocacy priorities, calling on business leaders to engage in collective efforts to modernize aviation infrastructure:
- Increased Airport Funding: Raising the Passenger Facility Charge (PFC), which has not increased since 2000, to support necessary infrastructure upgrades.
- FAA Regulatory Reform: Accelerating air traffic control modernization and creating flexible workforce training pathways.
- Efficient Use of Federal Resources: Ensuring federal funds are allocated and spent efficiently to move key projects forward.
The Chamber is proud to partner with CVG on these priorities through our Advocacy Council, where members can amplify their voices and help guide federal, state, and regional efforts.
Workforce Readiness: Aviation Maintenance Training at Cincinnati State
Doug Bowling, Dean of Engineering Technologies, at Cincinnati State then shared how the college is rapidly scaling its aviation maintenance technology program—expanding from 91 students in 2019 to a projected 185 students by 2025.
“There are going to be over 1,300 aircraft maintenance positions opening in the next three years,” Bowling said. “100% of our students in aviation maintenance get placed. There are so many job opportunities here.”
Key steps Cincinnati State is taking include:
- New Programs and Facilities: A bachelor’s degree in aviation management will launch in 2026, with associate degrees and certifications in drone technology, avionics, airframe, and powerplant maintenance already underway.
- Industry Partnerships: Amazon, DHL, and Delta are among the employers working with Cincinnati State to provide co-op opportunities and job placement.
- Modern Training Tools: With four donated CF34 jet engines from GE and new FAA grants, students have access to hands-on, state-of-the-art training equipment.
- Financial Support: Increased scholarships and endowments are helping attract a new generation of aviation talent.
As Bowling put it: “90% of Cincinnati State grads stay within the region.” This program is not only meeting national workforce needs—it’s building a pipeline of skilled talent for Greater Cincinnati’s employers.
The August Monthly Member Briefings will take place virtually on Wednesday August 14th at 8 a.m., featuring keynote speaker Christie Kuhns, President & CEO of the Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio. To join, visit our events page here: LINK TO NEXT EVENT.
