At the June Monthly Member Briefing, members of the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber heard from Larry Krauter, CEO of CVG Airport, and Doug Bowling, Dean of Engineering Technologies at Cincinnati State. The focus was on the region's economic future through aviation innovation, infrastructure development, and workforce growth.
Larry Krauter provided updates on CVG Airport's growth and future plans. New nonstop routes to Portland, Oregon; Gulf Shores, Alabama; Montreal; and Punta Cana are in the works. A $220 million overhaul of the airport’s baggage handling system is also underway. The airport has been recognized as the top medium-sized airport in North America for customer service. Its cargo hub, supported by Amazon and DHL, is expanding rapidly. DHL is building a new $26 million maintenance hangar as part of a trend in maintenance operations projected to grow 32% in the region.
Krauter outlined CVG’s federal advocacy priorities and encouraged business leaders to support efforts to modernize aviation infrastructure. "The Chamber is proud to partner with CVG on these priorities through our Advocacy Council," he stated.
Doug Bowling discussed Cincinnati State's aviation maintenance technology program expansion from 91 students in 2019 to an expected 185 by 2025. “There are going to be over 1,300 aircraft maintenance positions opening in the next three years,” Bowling said. “100% of our students in aviation maintenance get placed.”
Bowling highlighted that “90% of Cincinnati State grads stay within the region,” emphasizing that the program supports both national workforce needs and local employment opportunities.
The August Monthly Member Briefings will occur virtually on Wednesday, August 14th at 8 a.m., featuring Christie Kuhns, President & CEO of the Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio.
The Cincinnati Regional Chamber aims to enhance economic prosperity in the region by fostering a strong business community and welcoming environment for all.