Lucas Ward of the Wisconsin DOT Bureau of Aeronautics received the “Distinguished Service Award” from the Wisconsin Airport Management Association (WAMA) during the 69th Annual Wisconsin Aviation Conference (WAC 69), October 21, 2025, at the La Crosse Center in La Crosse, Wisconsin.
Over the past year, Lucas has assumed expanded responsibilities with professionalism and distinction, earning the newly established Bureau of Aeronautics (BOA) Standards Development and Primary Airport Engineering Chief position. He has taken on multiple critical roles — balancing competing priorities, guiding colleagues, and ensuring continuity of service — all while maintaining the highest standards of quality and accountability. His ability to manage complex tasks with efficiency and precision has been indispensable.
Lucas’s contributions extend beyond daily responsibilities; he has shaped policy, mentored staff, and fostered collaboration. His technical expertise and steady leadership have driven the BOA’s effectiveness, benefiting airports, partners, and communities statewide.
WAC is the only statewide aviation conference in Wisconsin and serves as a vital platform for airport managers, FBOs, pilots, consultants, government officials, and aviation enthusiasts to connect, collaborate, explore aviation topics, and discuss industry issues. The conference is held in different parts of the state each fall (wiama.org).