Indy airport exec named chamber’s ‘Dynamic Leader of the Year’
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The leader of Indiana’s award-winning airport now has his own honor to celebrate.
Indianapolis Airport Authority Executive Director Mario Rodriguez was named the Indiana Chamber of Commerce’s 2023 Dynamic Leader of the Year.
The chamber applauded Rodriguez for leading that it called customer-focused innovations and programs, including the addition of EV charging stations, new restaurants and free Wi-Fi to the airport. He also emphasized the importance of diversity and equity efforts.
“Mario is the epitome of a visionary leader and really one of the most influential minds in our state,” said Kevin Brinegar, Indiana Chamber President and CEO, in a news release. “He understands an airport is more than a public transportation facility, it’s a vital economic hub and key strategic partner for attracting and sustaining all kinds of commerce.”
The airport has a stocked trophy cabinet, with the most recent honor being named the best in customer satisfaction in the J.D. Power’s North America Airport Satisfaction Study. The airport also announced earlier this year that a record 4.7 million people passed through the airport.
“The rankings and awards are just a byproduct of having an excellent team and the team having clarity in what they want to accomplish,” Rodriguez said. “People have a boundless capacity to improve our collective experience if given the guidance and opportunity to do so. You can do amazing things by providing an overarching vision and strategy and charting a clear course.”
Rodriguez will be honored at the Indiana Chamber’s 34th Annual Awards Dinner. Other awards given include the Birch Bayh-Richard Lugar Government Leader of the Year, the NextEra Energy Resources Community of the Year and the Ogletree Deakins Business Leader of the Year.