The Vermilion Regional Airport has a new manager. Teresa “Tess” Cook was named to the post today and talked exclusively to WITY. She says her goal is to make the airport an even better facility…
Cook comes to the Danville airport from Lexington, Kentucky. She has been working for the Silent Falcon company as a professional drone pilot providing pavement services and data analysis to U.S. airports. She has a bachelor’s degree in aviation.
Cook says her goal is to increase public awareness of the airport and improve the product for pilots.
She says functions like Balloons Over Vermilion are tremendously important to the airport. She hopes to bring another air show into the airport and other events such as concerts.
Rod Hightower has been serving as interim airport manager. He said he will continue at the airport for some time to help Cook. He will also supervise work on physical improvements at the airport and will continue on compliance work for federal and state regulations.
Tess Cool Resume
Tess Cook – Vermilion Regional Airport Manager
Career
− Commercial Drone Pilot at Silent Falcon: Managed UAS operations, compliance,
airfield inspections, safety
− Data Analyst at Silent Falcon UAS: Identified airport distresses to evaluate
concrete quality (ASTM 5340).
− Mitigation strategies for safety management systems (SMS)
Pilot Credentials
− Part 107 certified remote drone pilot
− Student pilot with flight training in single-engine aircraft
Board Experience
− Treasurer for Yavapai 99's (women pilots club) in Prescott, AZ
− Treasurer for World4Women at Embry Riddle in Prescott, AZ
Education
− BS - Aeronautics Embry Riddle Aeronautical University 2021
? Minors: Aviation Safety, Aviation Business Administration
? Dean's List recognition in 2019, 2020, and 2021
Community Service
− Prepared cooked meals to support families at Ronald McDonald House
− Volunteered with Yavapai 99s at Skykids event
− Staff member at Girls In Aviation Day, promoting aviation to girls ages 10-13
