FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub Captains

Our Captains help to set the high-level agenda for the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub and ensure that we’re focusing on the technologies and trends that have the potential to genuinely revolutionise the aviation industry. Day to day, they explore and implement game-changing technologies to create new efficiencies, reduce costs and enhance the customer experience for their respective organisations. As a result, each of our Captains brings unparalleled insight and experience to the table and adds a new layer of expertise to the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub. They also help to curate content and drive rich discussions between our members to ensure maximum value is delivered to all of our members.

Kevin Kleist, Head of Emerging Trends at Southwest Airlines
Kevin Kleist

Head of Emerging Trends, Southwest Airlines and Head of Innovation & Startup Engagement, FTE

Beth Larkcom, Director Strategic Innovation at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport
Beth Larkcom

Director Strategic Innovation, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport

Samuel Ingalls, Principal at Barich, Inc.
Samuel Ingalls

Principal, Barich, Inc. and former Assistant Director of Aviation, Information Systems, LAS Airport

Melanie Andrews, Director Technical Innovation at KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
Melanie Andrews

Director Technical Innovation, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

Javed Malik, Founder of Bytes not Bricks
Javed Malik

Founder, Bytes not Bricks and former COO, AirAsia Group and BLR Airport

Jose Salamo, Associate Director at Greater Toronto Airports Authority
Jose Salamo

Associate Director, Planning & Development Technology Services, Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA)