MARK BURNS

Lifetime Aviation Industry Award

 Mark Burns has enjoyed a 40-year esteemed career with Gulfstream Aerospace. Through the decades, he has experienced nearly every facet of the business aviation industry. His interest in aviation began in college when he worked alongside several Gulfstream engineers on a class project for an ultralight aircraft. This exciting project piqued his interest immensely, so it was no surprise that upon his graduation from Georgia Southern University in 1983, Mark would begin his career in aviation at Gulfstream, joining as a computer-aided design operator.

From engineering to completions, supplier quality, technical operations and customer support, Mark excelled in his career taking on roles with increasing levels of responsibility. He quickly became known as a leader dedicated to providing the finest customer experience for Gulfstream owners and operators. In 2008, Mark was appointed President of Customer Support—a role he truly enjoyed as he traveled the world meeting with customers and soliciting their feedback on process improvements.

Mark was appointed President of Gulfstream in 2015, and has led the company through a period of significant investment in innovation and growth. Highlights include the introduction of the next-generaEon fleet of aircraG as well as expansion of manufacturing and support facilities ensuring Gulfstream honors its commitment to service each aircraft for life.

A native of Savannah, Georgia, Mark is proud to call Savannah his home and to have been part of the tremendous growth and success of Gulfstream. Mark is generous with his time, serving on the board of directors for the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), Georgia Power and the Corporate Angel Network. He is part of the associate member advisory council of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), a board member of the National Air and Space Museum, a member of the National Committee for the Performing Arts and serves on the board of curators for the Georgia Historical Society.