LEE'S SUMMIT, MO, Feb. 28, 2013 -- In response to the Thursday, Feb. 28, announcement from the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association that its president and CEO, Craig Fuller is stepping down from the top post, Paula Derks, president and CEO of the Aircraft Electronics Association, shared these thoughts.
"During the four-plus years Craig Fuller has been at the helm of the general aviation industry's largest pilot organization, he has displayed an unwavering passion and dedication to serving the pilot community, representing pilots on legislative and regulatory issues, working with his staff to develop new programs and services, while tackling the challenge of reversing a declining pilot population," Derks said. "It was an honor to work together with Craig on various industry issues. On behalf of the AEA and its board of directors, I wish him well in the journey ahead."
Fuller has served as AOPA's president and CEO since January 2009. AOPA's chairman of its board of trustees, William C. Trimble III announced a succession plan is underway to find a president. Fuller has committed to serving as president and CEO until the transition is in place.
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Founded in 1957, the Aircraft Electronics Association represents nearly 1,300 member companies in more than 40 countries, including approved maintenance organizations specializing in maintenance, repair and installation of aircraft electronics systems in general aviation aircraft. The AEA membership also includes manufacturers of aircraft electronics equipment, instrument repair facilities, instrument manufacturers, airframe manufacturers, test equipment manufacturers, major distributors, engineers and educational institutions.