Aviation

Bringing Aviation Engineering Excellence to BFW

BFW is thrilled to welcome our new Aviation Practice Leader, Chad Smith, an industry veteran with 27 years of experience in civil engineering, 22 of which have been dedicated solely to airport development. Chad’s extensive background and expertise will significantly bolster our aviation engineering capabilities, making him a pivotal addition to our team.

Expertise and Experience

Chad’s career has been marked by numerous successful projects across various aspects of airport design, construction administration, and project management. Reflecting on his key projects, Chad shares:

  • Hancock County Airport, Lewisport, KY: “I designed and managed the construction of a new airport in Hancock County, KY. This project was particularly rewarding as I was involved in it from land acquisition of the farm to finished construction of the airport.”
  • Addington Field Elizabethtown Regional Airport, Elizabethtown, KY: “I designed and oversaw the construction of a runway and taxiway strengthening, airfield lighting, and Navigational Aids (NAVAID) project. I enjoyed this project because it was fast paced as the crews worked 24 hours a day for 30 days and it resulted in a runway that allowed the airport to land aircraft that could not have previously used the airport.”
  • Fleming-Mason Airport, Maysville, KY: “I led a runway shift lighting and overlay project, completed in 2023. This project was challenging yet fulfilling, as we significantly improved the airport’s safety and usability.”
  • Marion-Crittenden County James C. Johnson Regional Airport, Marion, KY: “Designing and constructing a runway extension was another highlight in my career. This project showcased our ability to deliver projects that increase the accessibility of the airport.”

Chad has also spearheaded numerous projects involving fuel system installations, AWOS (Automated Weather Observing Systems) replacements, hangar buildings, airfield lighting and NAVAID installations and various runway, taxiway, and apron improvements. His licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) in both Tennessee and Kentucky further attests to his proficiency and dedication.

Vision and Enthusiasm

In Chad’s own words, “Joining BFW presents an exciting opportunity to leverage my experience in aviation engineering and contribute to the company’s growth and success. I am eager to work with such a talented team and bring innovative solutions to our airport projects.”

He continues, “My goal is to ensure that our projects not only meet but exceed client expectations, while also adhering to the highest standards of safety and efficiency. The aviation industry is constantly evolving, and I am committed to staying at the forefront of these changes to provide the best possible outcomes for our clients.”

Looking Forward

With Chad on board, BFW is poised to enhance its service offerings in the aviation sector. His forward-thinking approach and extensive project management experience will undoubtedly lead to successful, cutting-edge developments in airport infrastructure.

“We’re here to make a difference,” Chad asserts. “I believe that through collaboration and innovation, we can tackle any challenge and create state-of-the-art facilities that serve the needs of today and tomorrow.”

BFW welcomes Chad Smith with great enthusiasm and looks forward to the transformative impact his expertise will bring to our aviation projects and our growing team.