To the members of PAMA:

I wish to announce an important staff update at PAMA, effective April 1, 2011:

• John Casker will retire as President of PAMA
• Dale Forton will be the new President of PAMA

The selection of Dale as our new President ensures PAMA's evolution to effectively represent the Aviation Maintenance Professional. I believe, and the Board of Directors agrees, that Dale possesses the leadership and strategic planning skills needed to guide our organization into the future.

Dale has 30 years of industry and association experience. His credentials include Director of Maintenance for 135,145, & 147 operations as well as holding positions as Service Manager, Parts Manager, Technician, and Director of Product Support.  He has also had experience at various positions on the PAMA board including Vice Chairman.

PAMA has been well served by John’s tireless efforts over the last three plus years. John brought the management skills instrumental in PAMA’s growth and recognition in the industry. We will miss him and we wish him well in his retirement.

It is important to note that these staff decisions were made with careful consideration and were reached after an extensive review by the PAMA Leadership Council and with the approval of the PAMA Board of Directors. When evaluating such changes, the ultimate goal for all involved is simple, how can we best position PAMA for success now and for the future? Dale will fulfill that goal.

Though change provides challenges, rest assured we will work to insure this transition in roles occurs smoothly. Over the next several months, John, the staff and the PAMA BoD will work closely with Dale to acclimate him to his new role.

I know that both John and Dale, along with the Board of Directors, look forward to your support during this exciting time.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at 703-778-4647 or chairman@pama.org

Thank you.



Clark Gordon