Embry-Riddle Welcomes Joe Gibney as New Dean of Business College

Joe Gibney Appointed as Dean of the David B. O'Maley College of Business

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has recently announced the appointment of Joe Gibney as the new dean of the David B. O'Maley College of Business, set to take place on March 2, 2026. This decision highlights Embry-Riddle’s commitment to excellence in academic leadership and innovation within the field of aviation business.

With over 20 years of extensive experience in executive roles, Gibney has established himself as a significant force in the aviation industry. His previous tenure as a senior advisor at Ridgewood Infrastructure helped to cultivate his strategic insights and capabilities in areas such as corporate aviation, airport management, and infrastructure development.

At Ridgewood, Gibney played a pivotal role in identifying investment prospects and provided detailed market analysis in aerospace and transportation. His contributions included assisting portfolio companies in enhancing operational effectiveness and strategizing for growth – key attributes he aims to bring to the dean position.

His past experience as vice president and COO at TAC Air solidified Gibney’s credentials as a forward-thinking leader who can oversee strategic planning and workforce initiatives on a large scale. This experience further emphasizes his capability to strengthen Embry-Riddle's position as a leading provider of aviation business education.

P. Barry Butler, President of Embry-Riddle, expressed confidence in Gibney’s appointment, stating, "Joe Gibney’s leadership experience and innovative approach will serve as a catalyst for our students' professional success. His insights will help prepare the next generation of leaders in aviation and business." This sentiment is echoed by Kelly Austin, the Senior Vice President and Provost, who underscored Gibney’s potential to enhance educational experiences and career pathways for students.

Gibney’s leadership philosophy revolves around driving organizational growth while establishing strong partnerships within the industry. He aims to create multiple experiential learning opportunities and strengthen connections between academic and professional realms, thereby fostering a robust environment conducive to student development.

In addition to his impressive career, Gibney holds an MBA from Embry-Riddle and a bachelor's degree from the University of Tennessee. His active participation on various boards, including the National Air Transportation Association and the British Business and General Aviation Association, illustrates his commitment to advancing industry standards and workforce development.

As he prepares to take on this significant role, Gibney expressed his excitement about joining Embry-Riddle, stating, "I look forward to collaborating with faculty, students, and industry partners to implement strategic initiatives that will redefine business education in aviation and aerospace."

With Gibney at the helm, the David B. O'Maley College of Business is poised for an era of innovation, academic enrichment, and enhanced industry engagement, ensuring that its graduates are well-equipped to thrive in an ever-evolving global economy. Embry-Riddle continues to position itself as a leader in education, nurturing the next wave of aviation and aerospace professionals while reinforcing its mission of excellence in teaching, research, and service.