ATLANTA, Georgia, June 3, 2025 — SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is proud to announce its sponsorship and attendance at the 97th annual American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) Annual Conference and Exposition, taking place June 8-10, 2025, in Atlanta at the Georgia World Congress Center. The firm will send a team of airport design experts to engage with industry leaders and share insights on delivering resilient, people-first airport environments.
With a history of work at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) dating back to 1967—and adds up to more than 2 million SF of airport design completed—SSOE brings a uniquely integrated approach to the 100-year-old aviation hub recognized by Airports Council International as the world’s busiest airport for the past 26 years. The firm’s ability to plan and execute complex projects without disrupting airport operations is a critical advantage for facilities that must remain fully functional during renovations or expansions.
SSOE’s David Willoughby, AIA, NCARB, Business Leader within the firm’s Building Design Group, shared:
“Our team understands the complexity of airport ecosystems, from terminals and concourses to utilities and traffic flow. We’re not just designing buildings; we’re designing experiences that reduce stress for passengers, staff, and airlines alike. We have more experience in dealing with complicated airport systems than most, yet we also offer the architectural and interior design bench strength to bring in branding and an enhanced traveler experience.”
SSOE’s airports and aviation portfolio spans the Southeast U.S. and Great Lakes region, key markets where the firm is actively growing its presence and project reach. With an integrated practice model, long-standing partnerships with airport authorities, and experience with various airlines, SSOE has earned a reputation as a trusted advisor.
Ken Daenecke, PE, LEED AP, Principal Engineering Department Manager spearheading the firm’s airport design expansion efforts, explained SSOE is often called upon even when not the lead on a project due to its long-standing relationships in the aviation industry:
“We’re not here to make a statement—we’re here to make it work. Our job is to keep the airport running while making it better: improving the passenger experience, optimizing systems, and increasing energy efficiency. With a stronghold in Atlanta and a growing presence nationally, we’re ready to bring our integrated approach to more airports.”
Willoughby, traveling from Birmingham, Alabama, and Daenecke, an Atlanta resident, will represent SSOE at the AAAE Conference. Joining them will be SSOE’s Katherine McKeever, EIT, Electrical Engineer, and Kenneth Whitted, RA, NCARB, Architect—both of whom bring extensive experience and strong portfolios in airport design.
A Top 70 Airport Facility Engineering Firm for over a decade and Top 70 Airport Facility Construction Firm in this year’s Giants 400 Reports (BD+C), SSOE has 19 locations, including 12 strategically positioned in the Southeast U.S. and Great Lakes regions where the firm is actively expanding its airport design portfolio. SSOE remains committed to designing environments that move people safely, efficiently, and comfortably.
The firm’s experience also includes work for major airlines. Most recently, SSOE supported Delta Air Lines in transforming its flight museum in Atlanta ahead of its 100-year gala. While not the firm’s first project for Delta or its flight museum, it involved interior support for a new historic aircraft hangar exhibit, minor demolition, and complex architectural and engineering updates.
