In June, NATA welcomed three new members to its 2022-2023 Board of Directors: Kimberly Herrell, Owner and CEO of Schubach Aviation in Carlsbad, CA; Jessica Naor, President of GrandView Aviation headquartered in Middle River, MD; and Chad Farischon, Vice President of Strategic Development of West Star Aviation, LLC in East Alton, IL.
“Kim, Jessie, and Chad have been pillars on NATA’s Air Charter and Airport Business Committees. Now, their collective industry experience and individual voices on the Board will enhance NATA’s collaborative and proactive leadership for our members,” said NATA President and CEO Timothy Obitts.
“As the aviation business environment shifts and advances, so must our member guidance and advocacy. We look forward to continuing to benefit from our newest Board members’ knowledge and perspectives, and we thank them for their dedication to advancing the safety and success of the aviation business community,” added Obitts.
Visit NATA’s website for a complete list of board members.
“It is truly an honor to serve as a new member of NATA’s Board of Directors. For four years, I have contributed to the Association in various capacities supporting its mission to advance aviation infrastructure and services in the U.S. I relish the opportunity to work with my fellow Board members, NATA staff, and industry volunteers as we address issues such as aviation workforce development, infrastructure expansion, and safety improvement, as well as continued advocacy for diversity and inclusion throughout the industry.”
Jessie Naor was named President of GrandView Aviation in 2022 after serving as its Chief Operating Officer and Chief Marketing Officer. In addition to her leadership of GrandView Aviation, Naor currently serves as Chair of NATA’s Air Charter Committee and Vice Chair of the Air Charter Safety Foundation’s Board of Governors. She has also been named to the FAA’s Duty & Rest ARC, recognized as an NBAA Business Aviation Top 40 under 40, and honored with NATA’s Future Leader Award. Naor holds an associate degree in Air Traffic Control (Summa Cum Laude) from CCBC Catonsville, a BA in Aviation Business Administration (Cum Laude) from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and an MBA in Management & Finance from The Johns Hopkins University Carey Business School.
"NATA has been a driving force for progress in the aviation industry. They listen to their members and industry voices, taking action where it counts. As a part 135 operator I am continually grateful for the impact NATA has and continues to make. I'm honored and excited to join the executive board during this dynamic time in our industry."
Aviation industry veteran Kimberly Herrell joined Schubach Aviation in 2005, was appointed President in 2018 by company founder Henry Schubach, and acquired the business in January 2020. As CEO, Herrell drives Schubach Aviation’s overall vision and corporate values. Under her leadership, Schubach Aviation has instituted a “safety first” organizational culture, earning IS-BAO Stage 3 and Aviation Safety Action Program (ASAP) recognition. She oversees marketing, sales, and business development initiatives with a strategic focus on future growth, positive company culture, and delivering immersive aviation experiences for clients interested in customizable adventures. In 2018, Herrell launched Schubach’s successful Elevated Excursions program followed in 2020 by the company’s VIP ACCESS program, a curated collection of one-of-a-kind travel opportunities. A graduate of Utah Valley University, Herrell first made her mark in luxury hospitality prior to applying her experience to the private aviation industry
“I appreciate the opportunity to be included in such important matters that affect our industry and being able to apply my skills and knowledge to the broad range of industry challenges facing NATA members and our aviation industry, while also representing West Star and providing important feedback.”
Chad Farischon is Vice President of Strategic Development for West StarAviation, where he drives strategic growth opportunities through mergers and acquisitions, integration, and business optimization. Farischon’s diverse background in aviation includes more than 30 years of expertise in operations and management. He cofounded the Lynx FBO Network in 2016, holding the position of President and Partner until 2021. During that time, Farischon grew the Lynx FBO Network to nine locations. Prior to achieving industry-leading results with the Lynx FBO Network, Farischon served as the Regional Vice President of Landmark Aviation for six years. He earned a BS in Aviation Management from Southern Illinois University, holds a private pilot license, and serves as Chair of the NATA Airport Business Committee.
