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Mayor Randy Rowse presenting service award at City Council Meeting
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SBA Employee Recognition

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Santa Barbara Airport is proud to acknowledge three recent awards recognizing staff for their dedication and commitment to SBA.

Delta Support Team poses for a photo holding an award plaque.

Team of the Quarter: Delta Launch Support Team
SBA’s Team of the Quarter was awarded to the Delta Launch Support Team for their excellent work in supporting the launch of Delta Air Lines. This team included staff from across divisions, including Angi Daus, Marketing Supervisor; Tony Contreras, Senior Electronics Communications Technician; Matt Donahue, Airport Maintenance Supervisor; Lauren Gonzales, Marketing Coordinator; Teanna Herrera, Senior Engineering Technician; and Mark Peterschick, Information Technology Technician.

Beginning in September 2023, this team worked together to ensure SBA could deliver a smooth and successful launch for both Delta and SBA passengers. They worked together on new striping plans and construction, airline ticketing office space remodeling, lease revisions between the City and Delta, a robust marketing program, and new internet and communication technology. Without their commitment, attention, and skill, the Delta Launch could not have been successfully completed on time by June 7.

Ryan Cullom poses with two airport staff holding an award plaque.

Employee of the Quarter: Ryan Cullom
Ryan Cullom, Senior Airport Operations Specialist, was recognized as Employee of the Quarter for his outstanding dedication and contributions to the SBA team.

Ryan consistently goes above and beyond in his role, demonstrating exceptional commitment to safety, efficiency, and teamwork. He has been instrumental in supporting the team by willingly taking on additional responsibilities and filling overtime shifts as needed. His proactive approach and ability to work independently have ensured that projects are coordinated and completed to the highest standards of safety and efficiency.

Beyond his technical skills, Ryan maintains a positive attitude that uplifts those around him. He eagerly embraces new challenges and opportunities, consistently contributing to the overall success of SBA’s mission.

Matt Donahue poses with a group of employees holding a pin.

30 Year Service Award: Matt Donahue
Matt Donahue, Maintenance Supervisor, was recently recognized in front of Santa Barbara City Council for his 30 years of service.

Matt was hired at Santa Barbara Airport as an Maintenance Worker II back in 1994, and has since worked his way up to Maintenance Supervisor. As a valued member of the Maintenance Division, he oversees a team of 14 staff that are responsible for maintaining a 5.6 million square foot airfield complex, 59 buildings, and so much more. His knowledge and experience have been invaluable on a number of critical airport projects, as well as multiple flooding recovery efforts. Under his leadership, the Maintenance Division exemplifies the City’s core values.

Thank you, Matt, for 30 years of service to the City of Santa Barbara and the Airport!

Mayor Randy Rowse presenting service award at City Council Meeting