October Ramp Report (Copy)
Apex Team Spotlight:
Welcome Nathan Knutson
Airport Manager, PVB
We’re excited to introduce Nathan Knutson, who will be joining APEX Aero Center as the new Airport Manager at Platteville Municipal Airport (PVB)!
Nathan grew up in Suamico, WI near Green Bay and got his start in aviation while serving as an F-16 Crew Chief in the U.S. Air Force (Active Duty) from 2015 to 2022. After separating from active duty, he pursued his passion for aviation by studying Flight Operations and Aviation Management at the University of Dubuque, while also continuing his military service as an F-35 Crew Chief with the Wisconsin Air National Guard.
With experience both on the maintenance side and as a pilot, Nathan brings a unique perspective to airport management. He shared that what drew him to this role is the chance to combine his love for aviation with his desire to support both pilots and the local community.
Nathan and his wife, Gabriela, are also proud business owners in Platteville. Earlier this year, they purchased WKM Psychology, an outpatient mental health clinic that has been serving the community since 1981. The Knutsons are excited to continue growing roots in the area, especially as they prepare to welcome their first child at the end of this year.
Outside of work, Nathan enjoys spending time outdoors hunting, fishing, hiking, and riding dirt bikes. He’s also a fan of brewing beer, wrenching on cars and motorcycles, and traveling with his wife. Aviation remains a personal passion as well — Nathan owns and flies a Grumman Yankee and holds multiple pilot certificates and ratings, including a Commercial Certificate, Instrument Rating, and Multi-Engine Rating.
Please join us in welcoming Nathan to the APEX family, we’re thrilled to have him on board at PVB!
GM Training and Audit at TRL!
Our Apex General Managers from GPH, GOK, and TRL recently traveled to Dallas to attend a leading aviation safety conference. While in town, the team also took the opportunity to conduct a full audit of our TRL operations. These proactive steps help ensure we’re not only staying current with best practices across the industry but also continuously improving safety and service standards at every Apex Aero Center location.
ROTC Students Take Flight at GOK
Guthrie-Edmond Regional Airport (GOK) was buzzing with excitement as Guthrie High School Junior ROTC students had the chance to ride in a U.S. Army CH-47 helicopter. For many, it was their very first time in the air, making the day an unforgettable experience.
Conversations With… Navigator, Air Force One on 9/11
The No. 1 BFTS Museum in Terrell Texas is hosting a special luncheon program on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 12:00 PM. Lt. Col. Everett DeWolfe will share his firsthand account of serving on the flight deck of Air Force One during the events of 9/11. With 28 years in the Air Force and 12 of them spent on Air Force One, Lt. Col. DeWolfe brings a rare and powerful perspective on a historic day in aviation and U.S. history. Tickets are $30 and include lunch. Seating is limited, hit the link below to find out more!
Young Eagles Rally at TRL
Apex Aero Center was a sponsor of the EAA Chapter 1078 Young Eagles Rally at Terrell Municipal Airport on Saturday, September 13th. The event gave kids ages 8–17 the chance to take to the skies with a free airplane ride, an experience that can spark curiosity and a lasting love for aviation. We were grateful for the opportunity to support a day that connected youth with the wonder of flight and the welcoming aviation community at TRL.
Ribbon Cutting Celebration at GOK
Guthrie-Edmond Regional Airport (GOK) recently hosted a Joint Council meeting with the City of Guthrie and the City of Edmond, marking 21 years of partnership between the two communities. The day focused on GOK’s important role in Oklahoma’s airport system and the exciting opportunities ahead for future growth. The event wrapped up with a celebration in Hangar #2 alongside the Edmond Chamber of Commerce, complete with discovery flights from local pilots. Here’s to many more years of progress and partnership at GOK!
Girls In Aviation Day Dallas
This October, Apex Aero Center is sponsoring Girls in Aviation Day in Dallas. The event gives young women hands-on opportunities to explore aviation careers, connect with mentors, and experience the many pathways the industry offers. It’s a meaningful way to help inspire and encourage those who will shape the future of aviation.
Wishing Rison Blue Skies Ahead
We want to take a moment to recognize and thank Rison Pereira our Airport Manager at PVB for his contributions to Apex Aero Center. His leadership and dedication have made a lasting impact on our team and our customers. While he is moving on to continue his journey in aviation, we are grateful for the time he spent with us and wish him nothing but success in the future.
"Runway Rockstar" at GPH
This month’s spotlight is a striking Kodiak floatplane. It stopped in for fuel and definitely turned heads on the ramp with its bold orange-and-white paint and rugged design. Built for adventure, the Kodiak is equally at home on remote waterways as it is on the runway. Thank you to our GPH Line Tech Amy for snapping this awesome shot!