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Honoree Headshot

Mike Bianco

CEO
AvAir

Location: Chandler
Founded: 2000
Industry: Airlines and Aviation

Mike Bianco's association with AvAir began 22 years ago when he joined as the company's first employee. Fascinated by the aviation industry and inspired by his brother-in-law, the company's founder, Bianco recognized the company’s potential from the start. Bianco began in the warehouse's shipping and receiving department, where he learned the intricacies of the business and showcased his ingenuity and creativity, leading to his advancement within the company.

Bianco worked his way up through the organization, holding several roles, including director of sales, vice president and president. His experience equipped him with a deep understanding of the industry and enabled him to foster inclusivity, maintain an open-door policy and support the growth of his team members, the company said.

In 2019, Bianco assumed the role of CEO through a successful management-led buyout, marking a pivotal moment in AvAir's history. Since then, under his leadership, the company has reached several milestones. AvAir expanded its global presence, serving 3,100 customers in 127 countries, and established offices in Dublin, Ireland, to cater to its European and Asian clientele.

The company has earned the Parts Supplier of the Year award from Airline Economics for three consecutive years (2021 to 2023). The company has also been acknowledged for its commitment to sustainability, receiving the Environmental Sustainability award from The Aviation 100 for two consecutive years.

Bianco’s vision for AvAir involves continued growth and expansion. The company aims to strengthen its team through strategic acquisitions, adding talented professionals to enhance customer service and meet the increasing demand, the company said. AvAir also plans to forge strategic partnerships to expand its reach, address customer challenges and seize new opportunities.

AvAir has partnered with Waste Management, a leading environmental service and solutions provider, to assess and revamp its sustainability practices. By evaluating materials use, reducing plastics, analyzing external partnerships and exploring alternative fuel sources, AvAir strives to improve its operations and minimize its environmental impact, the company said.

“Bianco's unique perspective positions him as an excellent leader, driving the company's growth and success, such as maintaining 100% employee retention over the past three years and creating unique partnerships with other industry leaders, including Honeywell, Lufthansa and GE Aviation Materials,” Bianco’s team said. “He has led the company to impressive success in weathering the global coronavirus pandemic that nearly brought the aviation industry to a halt.”

Bianco has been named to the CEO of the Year top 10 list by Airline Economics Aviation 100 awards. AvAir has also been named on the Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Companies in America list for four years.

Presented by:

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Mike's son's name is Bo and is a nod to Boeing Company.

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