Frederick Armstrong: Driving Excellence at Akron-Canton Airport

As the Station Manager at Akron-Canton Airport (CAK) , Frederick Armstrong leads a high-performing team dedicated to operational excellence, safety and superior customer service. He manages both United and Breeze airline contracts and oversees up to 56 weekly flights at peak times, ensuring smooth and efficient ground handling operations. Under his leadership, CAK has become a standout performer, consistently delivering industry-leading results.

Renata Silva-Graver, Unifi VP of NE Operations, recalls her first encounter with Armstrong, saying, "I first met Frederick in 2017 when CAK was under my portfolio. During my initial visit, his big welcoming smile and calm demeanor immediately caught my attention. He proudly shared some pictures of his daughter, and it was clear to me that our people were in good caring hands. Frederick consistently fosters a teamwork atmosphere, creating a family-like environment that drives the team. CAK has been very successful in many areas because they work together."

Safety is at the core of CAK’s success, and Armstrong ensures that his team operates with the highest standards. This focus on safety has led Armstrong’s team to be awarded the Silver Safety Excellence certification from United Airlines’ Safety Excellence Program, a rigorous initiative modeled after OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Program. The team has long-term plans to achieve Gold and Platinum certifications in the coming years.

Daily safety observations, operational briefings and continuous training have helped reinforce a culture where safety is a shared priority. Armstrong’s commitment to safety and operational efficiency was recognized when CAK won the Second Annual Summer Station Safe Ops Challenge for Breeze in August. The team secured the top spot based on key performance metrics and CAK consistently ranks among the top five Breeze stations in the region, demonstrating sustained excellence.

CAK’s operational efficiency also sets it apart. Under Frederick’s leadership, the station has been awarded CAK the United Airlines Operations Excellence Award twice in its inaugural year (2021) – the only station to do so. The award, which they’ve won nine times since 2021, is based on four key monthly performance scorecards, highlighting the team’s ability to maintain superior operational standards. In 2023, they also earned the Start The Airline Right award, which requires the first flight of the day to depart on time with zero station-related or weather-related delays for an entire month – an achievement CAK maintained for three consecutive months.

Armstrong’s leadership also shines through passenger experiences. Passengers consistently praise the team for its attentiveness, professionalism and ability to handle busy operations efficiently.

Despite the station’s outstanding performance, Armstrong remains humble, crediting his team for success. “I would never have been in the position I’m in if someone didn’t believe in me – or if my team didn’t believe in me,” he says. His leadership approach emphasizes empowerment, with most supervisors rising through the ranks internally. He has fostered a culture of trust and accountability, allowing the station to operate seamlessly even in his absence.

Armstrong and his team continue to set the bar for excellence at CAK. Their achievements show what’s possible when strong leadership, teamwork and an unwavering commitment to safety come together.