Chris Blum

Mr. Blum has over 40 years of experience in aviation and transportation. He is a commercial and instrument rated pilot prior to taking a position with the FAA as an Air Traffic Controller in 1970. Mr. Blum retired from the FAA in May, 2009 as the Regional Administrator (RA) of FAA's Central Region. As FAA Regional Administrator, Mr. Blum served as the principal agency representative in both Great Lakes and Central regions with industry, the public, and various governmental bodies. He directed a variety of FAA regional programs that are essential to the overall mission of the agency to regulate safety and operate the nation's aviation system. Together, FAA Great Lakes and Central Regions encompass 12 states: OH, MI, IN, WI, IL, MN, ND, SD, IA, KS, MO, NE. Mr. Blum also serves as the agency's liaison to the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO). Previous to the RA position, Mr. Blum was the Air Traffic Division manager of Great Lakes region, where he was responsible for Terminal, En Route and the Flight Service in 80 facilities in 8 states.

As Vice President of Marketing, Mr. Blum is responsible for expanding YES' presence in the marketplace, especially aviation, airport & transportation and executing growth strategies. Mr. Blum holds an AA degree in Aviation Science, and is a graduate of numerous career enhancing educational studies, such as the Aspen Institute, FAA Executive Training, and the Federal Executive Ins.