AMAC Legends & Leapers: September 2026

AMAC Legends & Leapers is a virtual conversation series featuring an aviation industry legend and leaper.

Legend

Ana M. Sotorrio is Owner and President of Aviation Strategies and Trade Solutions, Inc. (ASTS). ASTS is a consulting firm specializing in aviation business development, government and community relations, and airport concessions. The firm is also an Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) and partners with a major food and beverage concessionaire at several Florida airports, including Orlando Sanford International, Sarasota International, and Miami International Airports.

Ms. Sotorrio has extensive experience in aviation, having served over 20 years as Associate Aviation Director, Governmental Affairs for the Miami-Dade Aviation Department. She holds a Bachelor of Professional Studies from Barry University and is a Certified Member of the American Association of Airport Executives. Her leadership roles include Past President of the Florida Airports Council and Past Chair of the Airports Council International-North America Associates Board.

She is actively involved in the local community, serving on the Miami-Dade College Aviation Advisory Committee and the Board of Directors of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce. Ms. Sotorrio has received several honors, including the International Women’s Day and FDOT Distinguished Aviation Service Awards, and has been recognized by the U.S. House of Representatives for her service to Miami-Dade County.

Leaper

Samantha Sanchez is a seasoned professional in the airport concessions and retail industry, with a proven track record in business development, operations, and strategic partnerships. She began her career in airport retail in 2020 through her family’s joint venture partnership with Hudson at John Wayne and San Diego airports, gaining firsthand experience in navigating high-traffic retail environments and delivering operational excellence.
With a sharp entrepreneurial mindset and deep industry expertise, Samantha launched Samantha Alexis Consulting, a firm headquartered in Queens, NY and ACDBE-certified by the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey and Caltrans since 2021. Under her leadership, the firm has secured coveted ACDBE partnerships for major aviation hubs, including JFK Terminal 6, JFK Terminal 8, and LGA Terminal C, further solidifying her reputation as a key player in the airport retail sector.
Samantha’s ability to identify, develop, and execute high-value opportunities—combined with her strategic approach to retail innovation and concession partnerships—positions her as a leading operator and entrepreneur in the evolving airport landscape.

Moderators

Indhira Figuereo Blaney is a senior aviation and infrastructure executive with more than 25 years of experience leading complex transportation and infrastructure programs across the aviation, marine, highway, bridge, transit, and facilities sectors. Her expertise spans planning, design, environmental services, program and project management, construction management, and business development for public and private sector clients. As an Aviation Sector Leader, Indhira provides strategic leadership for major infrastructure initiatives, partnering with airport authorities, public agencies, and executive stakeholders to deliver innovative, resilient, and sustainable solutions. She has extensive experience managing high-occupancy transportation facilities, coordinating multi-agency teams, engaging stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with federal and state funding requirements. Her global experience includes leading transportation and infrastructure projects in Australia, Trinidad & Tobago, Puerto Rico, and Mexico. Known for her collaborative leadership style and client-focused approach, Indhira drives business growth, oversees quality and technical excellence, and connects organizations with the expertise needed to successfully navigate complex challenges. She supports national and global markets through strategic guidance, industry knowledge, and thought leadership. A passionate mentor and advocate for leadership development, Indhira is committed to empowering the next generation of aviators and infrastructure professionals. She actively supports industry talent through mentoring, sponsorship, and professional development initiatives, helping future leaders build confidence, expand opportunities, and reach their full potential. Her career reflects a dedication not only to advancing critical infrastructure, but also to fostering inclusive leadership and creating lasting impact across the industry.