This month Denver South says goodbye to a respected and highly-regarded community leader and board member. Robert Olislagers has retired from his role as CEO and Executive Director of Centennial Airport (APA) and from his seat on the Denver South Board of Directors.
Robert’s successful 21 years as Executive Director at one of the busiest corporate and general aviation airports in the US has contributed immeasurably to enriching Denver South. While at the airport, he worked to restore federal funding to Centennial Airport, which had been lost in 1999, tripled the airport’s asset value, and raised its yearly economic impact from $815 million in 2008 to $2.1 billion in 2020. While serving on the Denver South Board of Directors, Robert embodied the board’s mission; his participation has helped Denver South as an organization and region reach higher and achieve more than ever.
Tom Brook, CEO of Denver South, commented on Robert’s contribution to region: “Denver South has been fortunate to count Robert as a key participant in our community, in addition to a Board member for our organization. Centennial Airport contributes over $2 billion in economic benefit to Denver South, bringing with it immeasurable benefits.
Robert has been an incredible steward of the airport for the past 21 years. He has not only improved the finances and operations of the airport, supporting significant growth, but he has also managed that growth by working with residents of the region to address its impacts. We wish Robert all the best and welcome Mike Fronapfel, his successor.”
Robert’s dedication to and excellence in his field have been recognized by numerous awards. This month, he was the recipient of the prestigious National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Silk Scarf Award in recognition of his career-long commitment to business aviation. Moreover, the Colorado Aviation Historical Society announced him as a 2021 laureate to the Colorado Aviation Hall of Fame. Since 1969, this prestigious award has recognized individuals who have made significant contributions to aviation in the state of Colorado.
Denver South thanks Robert for all his contributions and wishes him all the best in his future endeavors!
