Terms of Reference: Associate (Junior) Board
Alberta Aviation & Aerospace Council (Alberta AAC)

1. Purpose

The Associate (Junior) Board of the Alberta Aviation & Aerospace Council (Alberta AAC) serves as a platform for young professionals and students in aviation and aerospace to develop leadership skills, provide fresh insights, and contribute to the council’s mission. The Associate Board acts as an advisory body to the Alberta AAC Board of Directors and engages in initiatives that promote industry growth, professional development, and community outreach.

2. Objectives

The key objectives of the Associate Board are to:

  • Provide opportunities for young professionals and students to gain leadership experience.

  • Offer input and recommendations on initiatives related to emerging aviation/aerospace professionals.

  • Support Alberta AAC programs, events, and outreach activities.

  • Foster networking, mentorship, and career development opportunities.

  • Serve as ambassadors for Alberta AAC within the industry and broader community.

3. Structure & Membership

a. Composition

  • The Associate Board will consist of 4 to 8 members.

  • A designated Alberta AAC Board Liaison will provide mentorship and ensure alignment with Alberta AAC’s strategic goals.

b. Term Length

  • Members serve a two-year term with the option to step down early if necessary.

  • Terms begin on August 1 and end on July 31.

  • Staggered terms may be introduced to maintain continuity.

c. Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, candidates must:

  • Be 18 years or older at the time of application.

  • Be currently studying or working in aviation or aerospace or defence.

  • Demonstrate a passion for aviation, aerospace, or defence and leadership.

  • Commit to attending at least 75% of meetings and participating in initiatives and advise their committee chair if unable to attend any meetings. 

  • Reside in Alberta or have a strong connection to the province’s aviation/aerospace sector.

4. Roles & Responsibilities

a. Associate Board Members

Each member is expected to:

  • Attend at least 75% of meetings and actively participate in discussions.

  • Engage in at least one committee or project supporting Alberta AAC initiatives.

  • Represent Alberta AAC at industry events, conferences, and outreach activities.

  • Contribute to Alberta AAC’s mentorship, advocacy, and professional development programs.

  • Maintain open communication with the Alberta AAC Board Liaison.

b. Alberta AAC Board Liaison

  • Acts as a mentor and primary point of contact for the Associate Board.

  • Provides guidance and ensures alignment with Alberta AAC’s strategic vision.

  • Facilitates communication between the Associate Board and the Alberta AAC Board of Directors.

5. Governance & Meetings

  • The Associate Board will meet with the board as per the Alberta AAC’s board scheduled meetings and additionally quarterly as an associate board for training sessions, with additional meetings as needed.

  • Meetings may be held in-person or virtually.

  • Decisions will be made by majority vote, with the Alberta AAC Board Liaison serving as a non-voting advisor.

  • Meeting minutes will be recorded and shared with the Alberta AAC Board.

6. Selection & Appointment Process

a. Application Process

  • A call for applications will be issued annually.

  • Interested candidates must submit:

    • A resume or LinkedIn profile

    • A statement of interest outlining their motivation and qualifications

    • An optional letter of reference (preferred but not required)

b. Selection Criteria & Process

Application & Selection Steps

  1. Call for Applications:

    • Open once per year via Alberta AAC’s website, social media, and industry networks.

      • Opens June 1st annually 

      • Application deadline: July 15th

  2. Application Submission:

    • Candidates submit an online application including:

      • Resume (Please also include your LinkedIn profile)

      • Statement of Interest (500 words max)

      • Reference letter (required)

  3. Evaluation & Shortlisting:

    • The selection committee reviews applications based on a selection matrix (see below).

    • Shortlisted candidates proceed to interviews.

  4. Interviews:

    • Conducted by a panel of Alberta AAC Board members and industry representatives.

  5. Final Selection & Announcement:

    • Successful candidates are notified and publicly announced.

    • An orientation session is conducted for onboarding.   

7. Accountability & Performance Review

  • Members are expected to actively contribute and uphold the mission of the Associate Board.

  • Mid-term and end-of-term evaluations will be conducted to assess engagement and impact.

  • Members who fail to meet participation requirements may be asked to step down.

8. Transition & Succession Planning

  • Outgoing members may be invited to join Alberta AAC committees or mentorship programs.

  • A transition period will be implemented to ensure knowledge transfer for incoming members.

9. Amendments & Review

  • These Terms of Reference will be reviewed annually by the Alberta AAC Board of Directors.

  • Amendments may be proposed by either the Associate Board or Alberta AAC Board and must be approved by a majority vote.

Appendix A: Selection Matrix