OBPA Names New Airport Manager

The Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority (OBPA) has appointed Charlie Garrelts as Airport Manager for Ogdensburg International Airport (OGS) in Ogdensburg, New York. The national executive recruitment process was conducted by Steven Baldwin Associates (SBA), a leader in airport management consulting and executive search.

OGS is a vital transportation link for northern New York and the St. Lawrence region, providing air connectivity and supporting regional growth. The appointment of Garrelts marks a new chapter in the airport’s operations and development.

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Charlie Garrelts’ Aviation Background

Garrelts brings extensive experience in airport management and operations. He previously served as Airport Duty Manager at Clinton National Airport (LIT) in Little Rock, Arkansas, and as an Operations Specialist at the Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois (MWA) in Marion.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management and a master’s degree in Public Administration from Southern Illinois University. His expertise spans FAR Part 139 compliance, airfield and airport safety, emergency response, and security protocols, making him exceptionally qualified to oversee OGS operations.

Vision for OGS

Upon his appointment, Garrelts expressed enthusiasm for the role, stating: “I’m excited to join the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority as the Airport Manager, and I look forward to learning more about the St. Lawrence Region while working with the OGS team. This opportunity allows me to apply my skills toward further developing the airport as a critical transportation link for northern New York, while also enhancing the customer experience.”

OBPA Executive Director Steve Lawrence praised the appointment, adding: “Charlie Garrelts is extremely qualified to ensure OGS provides 21st-century customer service, to guide terminal facility upgrades, and to meet the needs of both travelers and residents. We are excited to welcome Charlie to the team.”

SBA’s Role in the Appointment

Steven Baldwin Associates managed the executive search process on behalf of OBPA. With decades of experience in governance, recruitment, and consulting, SBA ensures that airports secure leaders who bring both technical expertise and strategic vision.

👉 Explore SBA’s HR and Executive Recruitment Services

About Steven Baldwin Associates

Steven Baldwin Associates is a national consulting firm specializing exclusively in airport management consulting. The firm provides services in governance, organizational assessments, financial strategy, operations, and executive recruitment. SBA’s team of professionals brings decades of hands-on experience managing airports and advising policymakers.

For more information, contact SBA at info@baldwinllc.com or visit the official website.

FAQs

1. Who was appointed Airport Manager at OGS?
Charlie Garrelts was appointed as Airport Manager by the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority.

2. What is his professional background?
Garrelts has held leadership roles at Clinton National Airport in Arkansas and Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois.

3. What academic qualifications does he hold?
He has a bachelor’s in Aviation Management and a master’s in Public Administration from Southern Illinois University.

4. What responsibilities will he take on at OGS?
He will oversee operations, safety, compliance, and customer service while guiding terminal facility upgrades.

5. What did OBPA leadership say about the appointment?
Executive Director Steve Lawrence praised Garrelts’ qualifications and emphasized his role in improving facilities and customer service.

6. Who managed the recruitment process?
Steven Baldwin Associates conducted the executive search for OBPA.

Conclusion

The appointment of Charlie Garrelts as Airport Manager at Ogdensburg International Airport demonstrates the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority’s commitment to strong leadership and customer-focused service. With his operational expertise and vision, Garrelts is well-positioned to strengthen OGS as a key transportation hub for northern New York.

Through its role in this successful recruitment, Steven Baldwin Associates once again highlights its ability to deliver tailored executive search services that help airports nationwide secure top leadership talent.