Technology integration is essential in modern airport design. In this Regional Gateway article, author Grace Hardy interviews leading industry experts to explore how smart solutions, futureproofing strategies, and AI are redefining the passenger experience and operational efficiency in today’s airports. SSOE’s Senior Architect and Business Leader David Willoughby, AIA, NCARB, and Electrical Engineer Katherine McKeever, EIT, share their insights on the evolving landscape.
With over 30 years of experience in aviation architecture, David leads multidisciplinary teams in designing transformative airport environments nationwide, specializing in terminal design, infrastructure, and complex renovations that prioritize passenger experience and operational continuity. His notable projects include the multi-phase Terminal Improvement Program at Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP), along with work at CLT, TYS, and BWI. David’s portfolio spans terminals, general aviation facilities, ARFF stations, and hangars.
Katherine has over a decade of experience in multidisciplinary design, specializing in electrical systems, photometric analysis, and cross-disciplinary coordination, contributing to complex infrastructure projects across aviation, education, and commercial sectors. At SSOE, Kat supports resilient airport environments with a focus on safety, efficiency, and passenger experience. Her recent work includes the Concourse E Power Equipment Replacement and Concourse T Modernization in Atlanta, along with broader aviation efforts across the Southeast and Great Lakes regions.
Access the full magazine issue here, with the article featured on page 31.
Read the article directly as a PDF here.
