Jet Set for Growth: The Future of Airports and Airlines

August 19, 2025
11:30 AM PDT - 1:30 PM PDT
W.E. O'Neil Construction
300 N. Continental Blvd., Suite 190
El Segundo, CA 90245
Venue website
Program Update: New Speakers Announced for Jet Set for Growth
Our panel lineup has changed!
We’re excited to welcome Komal Kumar, Assistant Airport Director, John Wayne Airport, Armando Hernandez, Director of Planning & Development, Corporate Real Estate, United Airlines, and Kristen Owens, Manager Director - Airline Interface Services, AvAirPros.
Together, they bring fresh perspectives on the future of airports and airlines in Southern California.
Southern California’s airports are on the runway for transformative change. Join us for an in-person panel discussion exploring the future of airport and airline development across the region. Our updated lineup features leaders from John Wayne Airport and United Airlines, who will share insights on capital planning, operations, and upcoming development projects impacting the built environment for aviation.
From terminal expansions and innovative sustainability strategies to passenger experience enhancements and infrastructure modernization, this panel will provide a behind-the-scenes look at how airports and airlines are adapting to growth and preparing for the future. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge about major upcoming projects, planning strategies, and opportunities for the AEC industry to engage in shaping the future of aviation.
Whether you are already involved in transportation infrastructure or looking to expand into this dynamic market, this program will help you stay ahead of the curve and connect with key decision-makers.
Featured Panelists:
Komal Kumar
Assistant Airport Director, John Wayne Airport
Armando Hernandez
Director, Planning & Development, Corporate Real Estate, United Airlines
Kristen Owens
Managing Director, Airline Interface Services, AvAirPros
More panelists to be announced soon!
Key Takeaways:
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Explore near- and long-term airport development and planning initiatives across Southern California.
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Gain insight into how airports and airlines are approaching real estate, facilities, and infrastructure upgrades.
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Learn how AEC professionals can position themselves for involvement in upcoming aviation and transportation projects.
Who Should Attend
This program is ideal for professionals across the AEC industry interested in transportation, infrastructure, and aviation-related development, including:
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Business development and marketing professionals seeking new opportunities in the aviation and transportation sectors.
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Architects, engineers, and planners engaged in terminal, transit, and airport design.
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Construction managers and contractors focused on large-scale infrastructure delivery.
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Real estate and facilities professionals working in transportation or civic development.
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SMPS members looking to expand their network and gain insights into one of Southern California’s most active development markets.
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Anyone curious about how the future of air travel will shape the built environment.
Thank you to our event sponsors!

Event Sponsorship Opportunities
Please contact our Sponsorship Director, Tricia Converse ([email protected]).
Moderator Sponsor -- $2000
- Four (4) tickets to the event
- Meet & Greet with Speakers o Company Intro
- Attendee List
- Company logo displayed and recognition at the event
- Company logo on website and e-flyers
Plat Sponsor -- $1750
- Four (4) tickets to the event
- Meet & Greet with Speakers
- Company Intro o Attendee List
- Company logo displayed and recognition at the event
- Company logo on website and e-flyers
Food Sponsor -- $1300 (2 available)
- Three (3) tickets to the event
- Attendee List
- Company logo displayed and recognition at the event
- Company logo on website and e-flyers
Event / Parking Sponsor -- $500
- Two (2) tickets to the event
- Company logo displayed and recognition at the event
- Company logo on website and e-flyers
Event Patron -- $250
- One (1) ticket to the event
- Company logo displayed and recognition at the event
- Company logo on website and e-flyers
Tickets
$85.00 Member Ticket
$110.00 after 12:00 am August 19
$85.00 Other SMPS Member Ticket
$110.00 after 12:00 am August 19
$125.00 Non-Member Ticket
$150.00 after 12:00 am August 19
$2,000.00 Moderator Sponsor (+4 tickets)
$1,750.00 Plat Sponsor (+4 tickets)
$1,300.00 Food Sponsor (+3 tickets)
$500.00 Event or Parking Sponsor (+2 tickets)
$250.00 Event Patron (1 ticket)
