NGPA names 2027 board leaders and directors

NGPA elected four returning directors to new three-year terms starting in January 2027 and chose its board officers for the calendar year. The move sets the organization’s leadership for the next phase of its work supporting the LGBTQ+ aviation community.

Why it matters: - NGPA is locking in its 2027 leadership bench as the organization continues work across the LGBTQ+ aviation community. - The board changes matter because NGPA uses its directors and officers to steer education, outreach and professional development efforts. - Zac Mathews’ departure closes out a run that included launching NGPA’s Vertical Aviation Committee.

What happened: - NGPA held its annual face-to-face Board of Directors meeting in Minneapolis, Minnesota, late last month. - The board elected four returning directors to three-year terms beginning in January 2027: Kalli Boyne, Ryan Davis, James Shaffer and Tyler Tenbrink. - The board also named its 2027 officers: Kalli Boyne as Board Chair, Ryan Davis as Board Vice Chair, Charlie Williams as Secretary, Amber Stevenson as Treasurer and James Shaffer as Education Fund Officer. - Zac Mathews will end his service as a director at the end of 2026. - Doug Carr will conclude his term as board chair at the end of 2026.

The details: - Mathews helped create NGPA’s Vertical Aviation Committee to connect the rotorcraft, Advanced Air Mobility and drone communities. - NGPA participated for the first time in Verticon in 2025. - NGPA described Verticon as the largest show dedicated to vertical aviation. - Carr said the volunteers taking on leadership roles are positioned to help NGPA deliver on its mission with Executive Director Justin Ellixson-Andrews. - NGPA thanked Wings Credit Union for hosting the meeting and for its long-standing support. - NGPA was founded in 1990. - NGPA describes itself as an international organization focused on building, supporting and uniting the LGBTQ+ aviation community. - The organization says its work includes education, outreach and social events that promote equality, safety and professional development for LGBTQ+ aviation professionals worldwide.

Between the lines: - The board vote suggests continuity more than change, with multiple returning leaders moving into new roles rather than a wholesale turnover. - Elevating the Vertical Aviation Committee underscores NGPA’s push to stay connected to newer aviation sectors, not just traditional aviation circles. - The leadership slate also signals a handoff year, with both the board chair and several directors moving through transition points by the end of 2026.

What's next: - The new director terms and officer roles begin in January 2027. - NGPA’s 2027 leadership team will oversee the organization’s next round of programming, advocacy and community-building efforts. - Zac Mathews and Doug Carr will complete their current service at year-end 2026.