EVENT DETAIL

Ryan Welch, C.M., Director of Operations, Construction, and Planning (Duluth Airport Authority) 

Ryan Welch, C.M., serves as the Director of Operations, Construction, and Planning for the Duluth Airport Authority, where he leads a team of managers and staff responsible for airside and landside operations, maintenance, and long-range infrastructure planning at both Duluth International Airport (DLH) and Sky Harbor Airport (DYT). In this role, Ryan acts as the primary operational liaison with airlines, government agencies, tenants, contractors, and internal departments, ensuring full compliance with federal and state regulations, including FAR Part 139 and CFR 49 Part 1542.209, to maintain the highest standards of safety and security. 
 
Currently, Ryan is overseeing more than $100 million in capital programs, including the delivery of a new Air Traffic Control Tower, taxiway reconstruction, and major hangar development projects supporting the region’s growing aviation infrastructure.  

Prior to his civilian leadership career, Ryan served 32 years in the United States Army Reserve, culminating as a Brigade Command Sergeant Major. His military service included multiple mobilizations and overseas deployments, earning him several awards for meritorious service, including the Bronze de Fleury Medal from the Army Engineer Regiment. 

Adinda Van Espen, PE, Sr. Engineer & Project Manager (SEH) 

Adinda is a professional engineer and project manager with Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc. (SEH) who specializes in design and construction of airport infrastructure improvements. She leads both design and construction efforts. Adinda's experience includes a range of projects for airports and communities across the Midwest, from runways, taxiways, and airfield lighting to airport buildings. Having provided leadership across all project phases, she brings a collaborative approach and a sense of service to each airport. Over the last four years, Adinda has led construction for over $60M in taxiway and apron reconstruction improvements at the Duluth International Airport. Additionally, she is leading design for the civil site improvements for the $72M Air Traffic Control Tower replacement project, which is anticipated to break ground in 2026.