21 August 2013
The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association has announced Mark Baker as the fifth president and CEO in AOPA’s nearly 75-year history. Baker replaces Craig Fuller in the role and in addition to the role of president, Baker will become chairman of AOPA’s political action committee, CEO and publisher of the organisation’s member-distributed emails, newsletters and magazines.
According to the Association, Baker brings 35 years of involvement in the GA community and decades of experience in leadership positions in the home improvement industry. Baker became a pilot in his twenties and as an aircraft owner and an AOPA member since 1987, he has logged more than 7,500 hours of flight time.
A statement from AOPA said, ‘Mark’s retail experience is an important asset. He looks forward to gathering feedback from our members and then focusing resources on the areas that most benefit GA pilots and increase the value of membership. Mark also believes this approach can be useful in increasing participation by AOPA’s members in the association and driving GA flight activity. His experience in reaching customers will give new energy to AOPA’s goal of expanding the pilot population and encouraging activity and involvement by today’s pilots.’
The Association also thanked Craig Fuller for his efforts. Fuller notified AOPA of his intent to step down in March 2013. Baker will take office on September 6, 2013, following formal appointment by the Board of Trustees.
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