James Gerrald
James Gerrald specializes in advisory services, program and construction management of aviation facilities. He is currently at PHL Airport, serving as an advisor, bringing over 10 years of experience managing projects and programs for terminal, airfield and landside infrastructure. Projects include airfield pavement rehabilitation, airport rail facilities, airport utility infrastructure, airport security installations, terminal aesthetics, electrical and mechanical upgrades and maintenance. He holds an MBA, a master's in civil engineering and a bachelor's degree in architectural engineering.
Day -
1 - Airport design, planning and development - 11:45 - 12:15
The PHL vision: a 2026 preparation program
Philadelphia is one of many locations around the world hosting large events in the future. The 250th birthday of America, FIFA World Cup Games, PGA Championship, and many more events will take place in 2026. Since Philadelphia International Airport serves as a gateway for connectivity between passengers around the world and these monumental happenings, how do you prepare the airport for such vast anticipated passenger travel? What kind of program is necessary to address the passenger experience? This presentation will take a deep dive into PHL’s $500 million program, dedicated towards 2026, to solve challenges and improve the airport experience.
The audience will learn:
- PHL Airport’s planning efforts with preparing for the 2026 events in Philadelphia
- Technologies utilized to maintain the PHL Airport program
- The importance of stakeholder engagement during large planning efforts
- Integrating traveler feedback into enhancing the customer experience
- Identifying portfolio synergies and reviewing logistics to balance spending