Troy University alumnus Balram “B” Bheodari has been named a lead executive over Hartsfield-Jackson airport in Atlanta.

Bheodari was named aviation general manager just two months after serving in the role on an interim basis. He began his career in aviation in the U.S. Army before stepping into a deputy general manager position at the airport.

Bheodari, a 1992 graduate of the Aviation/Airway Management and Operations program, said it was a fascination with airplanes that led him to choose his career.

“[It was] the fascination of what caused an aircraft to glide through the air,” Bheodari said. “[And] the perceived coolness of people in the industry.”

Bheodari’s time at TROY allowed him to learn the ins and outs of aviation management.

“It introduced me to the many elements of managing and leading a complex industry,” Bheodari said.

Bheodari’s responsibilities include “leading a team of high performers” in administrative, operations, capital development, finance, and commercial divisions.

Bheodari describes himself as a servant leader.

“Hire smart team members and trust them,” Bheodari said.

Bheodari’s advice for TROY students complements his career choice.

“Reach for the stars,” Bheodari said. “There is no limit on individual capabilities.”

Troy University offers an Aviation Operations minor, and it’s a career path Bheodari encourages students to pursue.

“Explore aviation,” Bheodari said. “It’s a challenging but very fulfilling profession.”