James Viola

James Viola is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association, where they lead the strategy and engagement of regulators, policymakers, and elected officials. With over 35 years of aviation experience, they previously served as the CEO of Vertical Aviation International and held various leadership roles within the Federal Aviation Administration, overseeing significant safety and regulatory functions. Additionally, Viola was a Colonel in the US Army, commanding multiple aviation units and contributing to operations in the Army Aviation Directorate at the Pentagon. They hold four master's degrees in fields related to education, military science, international relations, and national resource strategy and policy.