IASA Management Team

Gary Naughton

Chairperson

Gary is a dynamic figure in aviation, combining academic pursuits, practical experience, and a clear commitment to leadership. Honoured to have been elected as the Chairperson of the Irish Aviation Students’ Association (IASA) for 2025/26, he is passionate about supporting the vision and connecting the next generation of aviation professionals. With a strong background in aviation, Gary brings a well-rounded perspective, merging his experience in flight training, currently enrolled in his ATPL program with ASG, and his employment as an Air Traffic Control Assistant. He also works as a Simtech XJ Simulator voucher instructor while pursuing his third-level education degree in Aviation Management.

Simon Kenny

Secretary

Simon is a final-year Aviation Management student at Dublin City University (DCU). In his spare time, he is training to achieve his Private Pilot’s Licence (PPL)(A) with the National Flight Centre and ASG. Upon completion of his undergraduate studies, Simon aims to become a commercial airline pilot via the modular ATPL route while simultaneously expanding his experience in the aviation industry. Simon joined IASA as a Student Engagement Officer in January 2024, seeking to meet and network with like-minded people. In September, he was appointed Secretary at IASA, embracing new challenges and contributing to the organisation’s growth as they celebrate their tenth anniversary.

Andrew Osborne

Head of Engagement

Andrew, an Aviation Management student at Dublin City University, recently completed an internship with AirNav's Airspace and Navigation Department, where he gained valuable industry experience. During college, he developed a strong passion for connecting with others in the aviation community. As Chairperson of the Aviation Society, he successfully increased engagement and participation. Now, as Head of Engagement at IASA, Andrew is eager to help grow the association and inspire the next generation of aviation enthusiasts.

Clodagh Kearns

Head of Marketing

Clodagh joined IASA in January 2024 as a Marketing Officer before being elected Head of Marketing. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the University of Limerick and is a recipient of the AerCap Women in Aviation Scholarship, a program that promotes the importance of women within the industry. At 15, Clodagh began flying at Atlantic Flight Training Academy and is a Private Pilot’s Licence holder. She is currently working at AerCap as an Engine Technical Support Manager.

Cian Connell

Treasurer

Cian is a final-year Aviation Management student at Dublin City University with a long-standing passion for the aviation industry. He gained valuable industry experience during a seven-month internship at EUROCONTROL in Brussels, developing a deep understanding of European aviation operations and air traffic management. Cian first joined the IASA team as an Engagement Officer in January 2024 before being appointed Treasurer in September 2024. He is dedicated to the growth and success of IASA and looks forward to delivering impactful events in the year ahead. After completing his studies, Cian aims to pursue a career in the aircraft leasing sector, contributing to the dynamic and evolving world of aviation finance.

Team

Ronan Patterson Events Officer
Megan Ross Marketing Officer
Rhiann Slevin Marketing Officer
Timmy O'Connor Marketing Officer
Ellen Leonard Marketing Officer
Daniel Hughes Marketing Officer
Conor Smyth Engagements Officer
Benjamin Hauer Engagements Officer
Sophie Crowe Engagements Officer

IT Team

Sanju Tharun IT Officer
Ali Arshad IT Officer
Swapnil Garg IT Officer

Non-Executive Committee

Bridget Gallagher NEC Member
Daniel Tetis NEC Member

Industry Advisory Committee

Karl O'Neill Aer Lingus
Yvonne Thompson PwC
Sarah Molloy SMBC Aviation Capital
Conor McElhinney KPMG
Lea Soledad EY Ireland
Barry O'Keeffe DAE Capital
Marina Efthymiou DCU
Nicola Ni Riada AirNav Ireland
John Drysdale Shannon IASC

IASA Co-Founders

Alexandra Slabutu Co-Founder
Carl Lynam Co-Founder
Andrei Jatariu Co-Founder