"I'm Very Proud Of What We Have Done"

Tom Poberezny, who has led EAA as president and later CEO since 1989, announced Tuesday that he was retiring from the organization "to take time to do what I want to do." Poberezny made the announcement at 1230 CDT in front of the iconic brown arch on the Wittman Field flight line.

"This is a personal decision, and I wanted to go out speaking to friends," Poberezny said.

Poberezny said the announcement was not so much a press conference as it was a message to the membership of EAA, and took no questions following the announcement. "I've been able to take the credit for what you have done," Poberezny said, referring to the members of the organization. While there are advocacy organizations with their roots in Washington, Poberezny said what sets EAA apart is it's grass-roots nature. "EAA is and outstanding organization ... a field organization with an outstanding reputation."

Poberezny paid tribute to the thousands of volunteers who make AirVenture possible each year, and said one of the things of which he is most proud is the Young Eagles organization. When asked how many of the people at the announcement had flown a Young Eagle ... the majority raised their hands.

Poberezny said what he won't miss is checking his Blackberry every morning, or his cell phone every two minutes.

The outgoing EAA chairman said the worst time to retire is looking back and saying "I should have retired then." He said he sees EAA as an organization with an outstanding future, and that there are "great opportunities going forward." Poberezny said he feels fit and enjoys the work, but added that “fresh thinking and new ideas are the fuel to propel us forward. EAA is well-positioned to step into the future with confidence, strong leadership and a promising outlook.”

(L-R) Rod Hightower, Louie Andrews

EAA Board Chairman Louie Andrew and EAA president Rod Hightower were also present at the announcement. “Tom, like his father, has been a visible leader for EAA and a mentor to thousands of flight enthusiasts, especially the countless young people that he has helped understand and become involved in the wonder of flight and the importance of aviation to our society,” Andrew said. “We will miss his daily involvement and valuable input, but we are happy to know that he will continue to be a good friend and an informal adviser as we move into an exciting future.”

In congratulating Poberezny on his retirement, Hightower said "I'm really glad you're only a short drive or a phone call away."

Poberezny's retirement becomes official August 1st, following the last day of AirVenture.

FMI: www.eaa.org