Careers at TKDA

Engineering Solutions That Enhance the Wisconsin Airport Experience

Creating enjoyable and safe airport experiences is at the heart of what we do. Our team of airport professionals is committed to enhancing these experiences through planning, innovative design, and construction services tailored to general, commercial, and military aviation clients. We proudly serve as the airport engineering and/or planning consultant for over 20 general aviation airports across Wisconsin and Minnesota. From this, we’ve learned that each airport poses a unique set of challenges ranging from geographic location and soil conditions to property boundaries, airspace restrictions, wetlands, and utility crossings. By proactively addressing these challenges early and throughout the project, we provide smoother airport operations, fewer disruptions, and a more positive experience for all airport users and staff.

Our team of aviation planning and engineering experts collaborates with you to develop the right solutions that fit your project’s needs, budget, and schedule with safety and FAA compliance at the forefront. Our integrated team includes in-house expertise in civil, electrical, mechanical, and structural engineering, along with architecture, interior design, hydrology, and GIS services. This cohesive approach enables us to deliver solutions that not only meet technical requirements but also enhance the airport operations, because when airports run smoothly, our clients feel it.

Airside Engineering and Construction

At TKDA, we work closely with airport authorities, airlines, the FAA and stakeholders to ensure efficient and safe airside operations. From runway and taxiway design to apron layout and aircraft parking, we analyze and evaluate aircraft size, traffic volume, and safety regulations to develop tailored solutions that support smooth operations. We go beyond the basics by advising on implementing advance technologies and sustainable practices to enhance operational efficiency and minimize environmental impact. Our expertise spans the full spectrum of airfield infrastructure from runway and taxiway lighting to navigational aids and communication networks, so every component performs seamlessly and reliably.

Our team includes experts that comprehend FAA standards and are well versed in FAA Advisory Circulars to ensure full compliance with grant requirements. We work with you to develop long-term plans to maximize eligibility for funding and assist with the documentation necessary to achieve the goals of your airport. Including but not limited to CATEX, Section 106, ground service equipment procurement, Airport Layout Plan updates and FAA coordination.

Planning for the Future of Your Airport

Aviation planning gives airports the opportunity to make informed facility decisions, secure project funding, and influence stakeholder views of their role in the community. Grounded in a deep understanding of engineering and the regulatory environment, our aviation planners work with your airport to identify your specific needs. Then, we develop project justification, explore development options, and apply our expertise in FAA and State aeronautics regulations to create a realistic Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). From Airport Master Plans and zoning to GIS analysis and capital planning, our integrated aviation planning solutions improve safety and provide long-term infrastructure success.

Transportation Facilities

Buildings, structures, and sites play a critical role in an airport’s infrastructure. Our expertise in designing aviation infrastructure is complimented by our work on the facilities that support it. Public-facing facilities such as parking structures and terminals are highly visible examples where we balance functionality and aesthetics. The back-of-house facilities that are equally important to efficient and accessible transportation include hangars, deicing facilities, snow removal equipment buildings, and fueling and charging facilities. When it comes to fueling facilities, we design simple to use systems and also consider fuel storage, distribution systems, fueling vehicles and site layout to enhance overall operational efficiency.

Underground and Geotechnical Engineering

Our engineers specialize in soil analysis and subsurface utilities to help you provide safe, uninterrupted service. We respond to a wide range of conditions in these critical facilities, leveraging deep knowledge of construction techniques and equipment for new builds and rehabilitation projects. Our team routinely designs repairs for deficiencies such as concrete liner replacement, void filling, crack sealing, cured-in-place lining, grouting, and settlement remediation. 

Contact Us

JOHN AHERN

Vice President, Aviation
Contact John

AMBER THOMAS

Regional Vice President, Milwaukee
Contact Amber