Melissa Rank, PLS
Melissa Rank, PLS, is a strategic aviation and infrastructure advisor based in Jacksonville, Florida, specializing in translating emerging technologies into actionable solutions. With extensive experience in aviation strategy, UAS integration, and advanced air mobility, she helps organizations navigate complex regulatory, operational, and infrastructure challenges while aligning them with real-world constraints and timelines. Melissa is known for her ability to bridge gaps between policy, engineering, planning, and implementation, enabling multidisciplinary teams to translate forward-looking concepts into practical, executable strategies.
Throughout her career, Melissa has held leadership roles across top engineering and aviation firms, including Woolpert, Wilson & Company, and self-employed consulting. She has successfully led aviation strategy development, early-stage service positioning, stakeholder education, and cross-disciplinary collaboration for public- and private-sector clients. A licensed professional land surveyor, Melissa combines technical expertise with strategic insight, delivering innovative solutions that integrate emerging technologies, regulatory frameworks, and operational readiness.
Melissa is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of professionals in STEM and aviation, empowering individuals to achieve their goals while fostering diversity and inclusion in historically male-dominated fields. She is an active member of professional organizations, including the American Association of Airport Executives, Women in Technology, and Women+ in Geospatial. Outside of work, Melissa enjoys gardening, creating epoxy and resin crafts, camping, canoeing, kayaking, and weightlifting, while staying informed on industry trends through publications like Airport Magazine and Best Flight Magazine.
• Professional Land Surveyor (PLS)
• Airport Systems Planning & Design
• FAA Integrated Distance Learning Environment (IDLE)
• University of Illinois Springfield – Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Business Administration, Management and Operations
• St. Louis Community College – Surveying Technology/Surveying
• Robert Morris University – Illinois – Associate of Arts and Sciences (AAS), CAD/CADD Drafting and/or Design Technology/Technician
• 2026 Honoree, Influential Women
• Beta Gamma Sigma International Business Honor Society, 2021
• American Association of Airport Executives
• Women+ in Geospatial
• Women in Technology (WIT)
• Illinois Professional Land Surveyor Association
• Supports mentoring and development of the next generation in STEM and aviation fields
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to grit, perseverance, and a strong ability to understand complex systems and challenges. These qualities have allowed me to navigate evolving industries and lead teams effectively while maintaining focus on long-term goals.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is that nobody is going to advocate for me better than I can myself. This has reinforced the importance of taking ownership of my career, advocating for my ideas, and proactively seeking opportunities for growth.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I advise young women entering this industry to follow their moral compass and make decisions aligned with their values. It’s important to recognize that you’re part of a team, not always the center of attention, and to surround yourself with supportive, knowledgeable people who will help you grow.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is managing the pace of regulatory change alongside rapidly emerging technology. However, these challenges also present opportunities to innovate, lead with clarity, and help organizations strategically adapt to new operational landscapes.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity and respect are the cornerstone values in both my professional and personal life. I strive to lead with transparency, treat others fairly, and uphold these principles in every decision and interaction.
Locations
Aviation Strategy & Advisory
St. Augustine, FL 32092