AIA Features | Staff Spotlight: International Events Manager Sherry Epperson

AIA Staff Spotlight: International Events Manager Sherry Epperson
By Anne Wiskerchen

Sherry Epperson is AIA’s international events manager, but calling her a general wouldn’t be too far off the mark sometimes.

"Essentially, I command a small army during the week of the show," Epperson said.

Although she laughed, there is some truth to her statement. Epperson coordinates the meetings, press events, receptions, and dinners with U.S. embassies located in air show host country. At the same time she holds the responsibility of working with the U.S. military command groups to make sure military aircrafts get to and from the event with out problems, and is also in charge of making sure AIA member companies and AIA staff needs are met.

"You don’t think, you just make it happen," Epperson said when asked how she balances the work load. "Although you’re traveling to fabulous locations, you’re not there to vacation."

For Epperson the most difficult part is not making sure U.S. aircraft get to and from the show, it is dealing with the minute details.

"Military protocols are always a challenge," Epperson said. "These issues may seem small, but forgetting that someone is allergic to shellfish or where people should be seated can make or break relationships with international counterparts and peers."

Growing up with a father in the Air Force, Epperson began traveling early in life, moving every few years. Her father would also take her family to visit a new state each summer.

"My dad wanted us to appreciate the great nation we live in," said Epperson, who has visited 41 of the 50 states.

Graduating from the University of Maryland, Epperson ran her own catering company with her husband, worked as a counselor, and did legal claims servicing for a doctor’s office before becoming involved in air shows. She started at AIA assuming this was a short-term job, but seven years later she looks forward to the future growth of AIA and international events.

"I am excited about AIA’s growing role abroad," she said.

Epperson would like get more of our members involved on every level, from sponsoring events to getting smaller companies to come over and be part of the event.

"I look forward to being there to support AIA’s members and the United States as we show off our best products to the world," said Epperson.