Tanner has extensive experience in aviation and transportation.
The Ohio Department of Transportation’s Role
The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) has taken a significant step towards embracing AAM by creating an Advanced Air Mobility division. This division will serve as a hub for the development and implementation of AAM technologies in the state. ODOT Director Pam Boratyn has selected Robert “Bob” Tanner as the new AAM Director, bringing extensive experience in aviation and transportation to the role.
Challenges and Opportunities
While AAM presents numerous benefits, it also poses several challenges.
The Rise of AAM
The aviation industry is witnessing a significant transformation with the emergence of AAM, which is poised to revolutionize the way we travel and transport goods.
The Benefits of Co-location
Co-locating the AAM Division with the National Advanced Air Mobility Center of Excellence in Springfield, Ohio, is expected to bring numerous benefits to the state of Ohio and the nation as a whole.
This collaboration will help to leverage resources, expertise, and funding to support the development of the Ohio River Corridor.
Economic Development Strategies
The Ohio River Corridor Initiative will focus on several key economic development strategies to maximize positive economic impact and job creation. These strategies include:
The Ohio River Corridor Initiative aims to create a ripple effect that maximizes positive economic impact and job creation. By leveraging resources, expertise, and funding, ODOT and its partners will be able to support the development of the corridor and drive economic growth in the region.
Leveraging Ohio’s Assets
Ohio has a strong foundation for aerospace innovation, with a large and skilled manufacturing workforce, world-class research institutions, and a variety of higher education programs that can provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue careers in aerospace. • The state’s manufacturing workforce is comprised of highly skilled workers who have experience in designing, building, and testing aircraft and spacecraft. • Ohio’s research institutions, such as the Ohio State University’s Byrd Polar and Robert H. Goddard Schools, are renowned for their cutting-edge research in aerospace engineering and materials science.
Study Zones
The FAA will co-locate the Center for Advanced Aviation Technology in Springfield, Ohio, marking a significant development in the agency’s efforts to advance aviation technology. The decision to co-locate the center in Springfield is part of a broader initiative to improve the nation’s aviation infrastructure. The FAA has identified four study zones across the state of Ohio, which will serve as the primary locations for data collection and analysis.