Date:  Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Contact: Nisha Marvel, WSDOT Aviation Communications, 360-651-6310

OLYMPIA – A veteran of aviation, Tristan Atkins was named director of the Aviation Division at the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT).

“Tristan is a proven leader and brings with him great enthusiasm for our state’s aviation system,” said Secretary of Transportation Paula Hammond. “With his vast knowledge of aviation, he will be a tremendous asset to our strong team in the division and we’re excited to have him onboard.”

Atkins is a 25-year veteran of the Washington State Patrol, where he was commander of the aviation section for 10 years. And, currently, he holds the military rank of colonel, having served as an Army aviator for 28 years.

In his new role, Atkins will continue the work to better integrate aviation with the state’s other transportation modes such as highways, rail and ferries, supporting WSDOT’s overall mission of maintaining a reliable, responsible and sustainable system.

Atkins replaces retiring John Sibold and will begin Aug. 23 in the Aviation Division’s Arlington headquarters office.

Gov. Chris Gregoire recognized Atkins’ leadership skills by awarding him the 2010 Governor's Award for Leadership in Management.

The Aviation Division is responsible for protecting and preserving the state’s system of 138 public use airports. To learn more, visit www.wsdot.wa.gov/aviation.

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