Airline Dispatchers Federation Announces Organizational Changes

Washington, D.C. – The Airline Dispatchers Federation (ADF) today announced several organizational changes effective January 1, 2026, following recent elections and appointments by the Executive Board.

Leadership Transition

Jim Starnes has been elected President of the Airline Dispatchers Federation, and will serve a two-year term from January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2027. Jim succeeds Ryan Makings, who has served with distinction as ADF President.

Jim Starnes is a Flight Dispatcher for Delta Air Lines and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the organization. His professionalism, industry insight, and commitment to operational excellence will continue to advance ADF’s mission and strengthen its advocacy on behalf of dispatchers across the aviation industry.

The ADF Executive Board extends its deepest appreciation to Ryan for his years of dedication, leadership, and tireless advocacy on behalf of the dispatch profession. Ryan will remain actively involved in the organization, contributing in various capacities to support ongoing programs and initiatives.

Vice Presidential Appointments

In accordance with ADF’s bylaws, a special meeting of the Executive Board was convened on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, to appoint two new Vice Presidents who will report directly to Executive Vice President Miguel Reyes.

Carolyn Albert – Vice President, Membership & Engagement

Carolyn Albert has been appointed as Vice President, Membership & Engagement, serving a one-year term from January 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026.

This position will be placed on the ballot for a full extended term at the October 2026 Annual Business Meeting, to be elected by the ADF delegates.

Carolyn has been a Dispatcher with Alaska Airlines since 2020, where she also serves as an SOE Instructor, ATS, and member of the Dispatcher-Pilot Working Group. She began her dispatch career with Piedmont Airlines in 2018, following several years in Air Traffic Control at New York ARTCC and Hanscom Tower.

Carolyn is an active voice for dispatchers within the aviation community, regularly attending industry conferences such as InfoShare, NATCA CFS, and ALPA ASF to foster collaboration and share the dispatch perspective. Carolyn has served on the ADF Board since early 2025 and continues to bring great enthusiasm and professionalism to her role.

Mitch Barnes – Vice President, Summit & Logistics

Mitch Barnes has been appointed as Vice President, Summit & Logistics, also serving a one-year term from January 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026.

This position will likewise be placed on the ballot for a full extended term at the October 2026 Annual Business Meeting, elected by the delegates.

Mitch Barnes is a Dispatcher at United Airlines since 2023, currently qualified in both Atlantic and Domestic operations. Before earning his Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate, Mitch spent 12 years in the hospitality and theme park industry, developing his skills in organization, teamwork, and customer service.

Mitch is enthusiastic about his new role within ADF and looks forward to supporting the organization’s summit planning, logistics, and event coordination. He is eager to contribute wherever he can to help advance ADF’s mission and strengthen connections within the dispatch community.

Looking Ahead

The Airline Dispatchers Federation looks forward to working with Jim, Carolyn, and Mitch in their new leadership roles as ADF continues to strengthen its advocacy, professional development, and outreach efforts for the nation’s licensed aircraft dispatchers.

About the Airline Dispatchers Federation (ADF)

The Airline Dispatchers Federation represents the professional interests of licensed aircraft dispatchers and operational control professionals from aerospace companies, cargo and regional airlines, and every major U.S. air carrier.

As of January 2025, ADF membership stood at 2,338 members. The vast majority of airline passengers traveling each day in the United States do so under the watchful eye of ADF members.

ADF is an all-volunteer organization, composed entirely of working dispatchers. In accordance with its bylaws, ADF is an advocacy organization—not a labor organization— dedicated to promoting safety, professionalism, and recognition for the dispatch profession.

Media Contact

Airline Dispatchers Federation
📧 adfboard@dispatcher.org
🌐 www.dispatcher.org