Rob Mason is one of four aviation representatives, or AvReps, with MnDOT Aeronautics, each of whom has a special focus in an area of aviation in Minnesota. Mason and his colleagues, Dmitry Foster, Nate Williams, and Phil Anderson, each hold a commercial pilot certificate with an instrument rating, which requires at least 250 hours of flight time. This ensures that AvReps have adequate aviation experience to support pilots around the state.
AvReps provide technical expertise in the development, preservation, and safety of aviation in Minnesota. This includes inspecting and licensing airports and commercial aviation operators, enforcing related state laws and regulations, holding safety and educational seminars for pilots and airport operators, and providing pilot services.
Mason, who spent nearly a decade teaching aviation at the high school level, is focused on improving K-12 exposure to Minnesota aviation, teacher hiring and training, and training for airport managers, especially through work with AirTAP. In addition, Mason previously worked on the ground for Signature Flight Support at St. Paul Downtown Airport (Holman Field) and was a gate supervisor and charter representative for Sun Country Airlines as well as a flight attendant for Compass Airlines in its early days.
Foster, who focuses on flight schools and special projects with commercial operations, is a 1,300-plus-hour flight instructor with extensive knowledge of regulations and standards.
Williams handles drones and unmanned aerial systems (UAS), particularly with a goal to improve that space. Earlier in his career, Williams flew Air Medical flights as well as cargo in a variety of airplanes. He holds an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, is a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), and is an enthusiastic glider pilot.
Anderson, a recent addition to the team, has a background in aviation management. He also is a CFI and managed a flight operation in California prior to joining MnDOT.
AvReps are assigned to specific regions (south—Mason, north—Foster, and central—likely, Anderson) and are responsible for airport licensing. Mason, for example, has been working with a few property owners in the southern region trying to open an airport on their private land. MnDOT Aeronautics has worked with them every step of the way, providing guidance and, ultimately, a final inspection visit to ensure adherence to state rules. AvReps also help landowners get in touch with the FAA.
Historically, AvReps have taught a community ground school for prospective private pilots, led seminars for pilots around the state, and spoken on airport construction and activities at the state level. In addition, AvReps also are part of the state pilot group to fly state aircraft. Mason completed training to fly the state’s King Air and Williams to fly the state’s Kodiak. You can expect to see them visiting your airport soon.
