By Maheswari (Mahi) Ramesh

BOISE, Idaho — “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” For me, that step was walking through the doors of Boise Airport this summer as the only intern on site. What followed was an unforgettable experience that not only shaped my thesis for the Honors College at Middle Tennessee State University but also solidified my dream of one day becoming an airport director.

As an aerospace major at MTSU, I’ve always been fascinated by the complex systems that keep airports running. But this internship gave me something no textbook ever could: a front-row seat to the heartbeat of an airport. I worked across project management, operations, environmental compliance, finance, security, and even airfield lighting — each department revealing how deeply interconnected airport functions truly are.

My internship began with the Project Management team, where I led two major initiatives. The first was digitizing over 300 stacks of architectural files, coordinating with vendors, city archivists, and IT teams to securely transfer records into our internal system. The second was managing the advanced design phase of the Gate 0 redevelopment project. I collaborated with Ardurra civil engineering consultants and airport planners to iterate exhibit drawings until we reached a 95% build-out design, an effort that taught me the value of precision, patience, and adaptability.

On the airside, I shadowed engineers on projects such as the Concourse A apron expansion, gate upgrades, and the east de-icing pad. I learned to read requests for information (RFIs), submittals, and construction drawings, and even helped oversee striping and rerouting efforts. Landside, I supported the Consolidated Rental Car Facility updates and assisted with sustainability reporting for a federally funded electric boiler upgrade.

One of my proudest accomplishments was leading the environmental update of Boise Airport’s Rules and Regulations. I expanded the document from seven to 12 sections, aligning it with current state and federal guidelines and benchmarking against airports nationwide. It was an opportunity to apply research, policy analysis, and strategic thinking skills that I’ve honed through the Honors College.

Operations was where I truly found my rhythm. I split two days each week with the Ops team, preparing for the FAA-mandated Triennial Emergency Exercise and serving as a designated responder and timekeeper during the drill. I conducted Part 139 inspections, issued Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs), tracked wildlife hazards, and even helped shut down the terminal during nighttime operations. One unforgettable moment was coordinating the emergency response for a KC-130J Super Hercules that landed with only one engine operative.

I also compiled and submitted the 2024 operational data sheet for the Airports Council International and updated the airport’s Family and Friends Assistance Plan, which are critical documents requiring collaboration across departments. These experiences directly support my Honors thesis, which explores “Balancing Safety and Efficiency via Airport Operations and Project Management at Boise Airport.”

Shadowing the finance and business development teams gave me insight into the airport’s economic engine. I learned about operations and maintenance budgets, capital project accounting, federal grants, and how millions, sometimes billions, of dollars are managed. I also supported a special welcome event for the President of Spain’s Basque Country during the Jaialdi festival, helping promote Boise Airport through cultural diplomacy.

From HVAC repairs to airfield lighting diagnostics, I gained hands-on experience with the systems that keep an airport running. I learned how to test runway lights, troubleshoot regulators, and operate snow removal equipment. Touring the City of Boise’s IT network deepened my appreciation for the technology that underpins airport safety and efficiency.

But the most inspiring moment came over lunch with Airport Director Rebecca Hupp. “With great power comes not only great responsibility, but also great humility,” she told me. Her words and her example left a lasting impression. She encouraged me to start my career at a smaller airport, where I could develop the leadership skills necessary to one day lead a major hub.

This internship wasn’t just a summer job; it was a transformative journey. I learned to manage time, lead projects, speak up in boardrooms, and adapt to real-world challenges. I discovered that leadership isn’t about titles, it’s about listening, collaborating, and lifting others.

Thanks to the support of MTSU’s Aerospace Department and the Honors College, I was prepared to meet every challenge with confidence and curiosity. I’m proud to represent the university and excited to return to Boise Airport after graduation to begin the next chapter of my aviation career.

Maheswari (Mahi) Ramesh is a Middle Tennessee State University Aerospace major and part of the Honors College.