The energy was unmistakable. The purpose was clear. And from the moment nearly 60 aviation and business professionals gathered for the #AMAC2027 Planning Committee Kickoff Luncheon, one message resonated throughout the room: Atlanta is ready.
The luncheon officially launched local planning for the 42nd Annual AMAC Airport Business Conference, which will bring aviation leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers and industry innovators from across the country to Atlanta, Georgia from June 26–30, 2027.
Guided by the theme, “Legacy in Motion: Connecting People. Expanding Access. Driving Innovation,” the conference will celebrate AMAC’s enduring impact while challenging attendees to help shape the future of aviation and airport business opportunities.
That future began taking shape at the kickoff luncheon, where an enthusiastic group of professionals came together with a shared ambition—to make #AMAC2027 the most memorable and impactful conference in the organization’s history.
Leading the local planning effort are Conference Co-Chairs Jan Lennon, Executive Deputy General Manager, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport; Alicia M. Ivey, Founding President of the AMAC Atlanta Chapter and CEO | President, Goldbergs Concessions Corp.; and Walter Vinson, Assistant General Manager for Government Affairs, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
Lennon set the committee’s leadership standard, pledging that the planning process will be grounded in “truth, trust and transparency.”
“We have an extraordinary opportunity before us, not only to welcome AMAC back to Atlanta, but to demonstrate what is possible when talented people unite around a shared purpose,” Lennon said. “We will lead and work together with truth, trust and transparency. That commitment will guide how we communicate, how we make decisions and how we deliver an exceptional conference.”
She also outlined clear expectations for every member of the planning committee: Be engaged. Be collaborative. Be accountable. Stay connected through consistent participation.
Those principles will serve as the committee’s compass throughout the months of planning ahead, ensuring that every member understands both the importance of the assignment and the value of collective leadership.
Ivey challenged the group to embrace greatness from the outset.
“Atlanta does not do anything halfway, and AMAC Atlanta is not preparing simply to host a good conference. We are preparing to deliver an outstanding one,” Ivey said. “Greatness will require bold ideas, intentional collaboration and a willingness from each of us to bring our very best. If we remain focused on our purpose and committed to excellence, we can create an experience that raises the standard for every AMAC conference that follows.”
That spirit of excellence was evident throughout the room as participants exchanged ideas, renewed professional connections and began imagining the many ways Atlanta can showcase its aviation leadership, entrepreneurial strength, cultural richness and unmistakable Southern hospitality.
Vinson emphasized that the collective enthusiasm in the room will be one of the committee’s greatest assets.
“The excitement is real, and it is contagious,” Vinson said. “What makes this moment especially powerful is seeing people from across the airport and business community ready to roll up their sleeves and work together. Everyone brings something valuable to the table, and when we combine that talent, experience and energy, there is no limit to what we can accomplish.”
Joining the three Conference Co-Chairs are emerging leaders Mori Russell Atkins of Concessions International, Travis Jones of Mack II, Inc., and Shayla McNair of Shay Latte Coffee. These dynamic young professionals will work alongside the Co-Chairs as mentees, energizing the planning effort and bringing fresh perspectives to the conference experience.
Their involvement reflects an important dimension of “Legacy in Motion,” honoring the leaders who built the foundation while creating space for a new generation to lead, contribute and innovate.
The 2027 theme also captures the heart of AMAC’s mission. Connecting People recognizes the relationships and partnerships that move the aviation industry forward. Expanding Access affirms AMAC’s longstanding commitment to creating pathways for minority- and women-owned businesses and professionals. Driving Innovation calls upon the industry to embrace new ideas, emerging technologies and forward-thinking solutions.
Atlanta — a global gateway, a cradle of civil rights leadership and a center of business and cultural influence — is uniquely positioned to bring that theme to life.
The kickoff luncheon was more than an organizational meeting. It was the first spark of a movement that will continue building over the coming months. The conversations were lively, the expectations were high and the commitment in the room was palpable.
With strong leadership, an energized planning committee and the full force of Atlanta’s aviation and business communities behind it, AMAC 2027 is already in motion.
And Atlanta is preparing to make history.