Blake Andrus
Denver,CO
Summary
Dynamic operations and traffic management leader with over 13 years of FAA experience in coordinating complex airspace operations, optimizing traffic flow, and guiding technical teams in high-pressure environments. Expertise in TBFM, stakeholder collaboration, incident response, and resource allocation drives successful outcomes. Skilled in fostering partnerships with airlines, the FAA Command Center, and contract partners to enhance efficiency, safety, and continuity throughout the National Airspace System. Committed to leveraging strategic insights and collaborative approaches to elevate operational performance and achieve organizational goals.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Operations Supervisor
FAA – Denver TRACON
12.2023 - Current
- Lead a team of technical air traffic control professionals, ensuring safe, efficient operations and adherence to federal procedures in a high-tempo environment.
- Analyze traffic patterns and operational risks in real time, implementing mitigation strategies to enhance safety and system reliability.
- Allocate personnel and prioritize resources across sectors to maintain service levels, reduce delays, and support continuous operational readiness.
Supervisory Traffic Management Coordinator
FAA – Denver ARTCC
06.2023 - 12.2023
- Directed traffic flow using TBFM and coordinated bi-hourly with the FAA Command Center and stakeholders to align national and regional traffic plans.
- Facilitated collaboration with airlines, TRACONs, and adjacent ARTCCs to implement Ground Delays, Ground Stops, and other TMIs.
Operations Supervisor
FAA – Denver ARTCC
05.2022 - 06.2023
- Developed and implemented a scheduling system compliant with CBAs, MOUs, and operational directives while improving workforce coverage and flexibility.
- Managed the reporting process for significant operational events, ensuring timely and accurate communication to leadership and stakeholders.
- Authored technical narratives and summaries of aviation incidents to support safety reviews and operational decision-making.
Operations Manager
FAA – Denver ARTCC
11.2021 - 05.2022
- Activated ATC Zero contingency procedures and coordinated facility sterilization to ensure airspace continuity during critical operations.
- Led labor relations and grievance resolution efforts, providing clarification on federal policy and compliance requirements.
- Coordinated post-incident response with NTSB, local authorities, and FAA entities, compiling investigative data and supporting recovery operations.
Operations Supervisor
FAA – Denver ARTCC
01.2018 - 11.2021
- Managed area scheduling operations, aligning staffing with traffic demands, qualifications, and regulatory requirements.
- Served as Airport Outreach Advocate, representing the facility at aviation community events and stakeholder engagements.
- Delivered recurrent training to controllers and supervisors to improve workforce proficiency and consistency.
Air Traffic Control Specialist
FAA – Denver ARTCC
01.2012 - 01.2018
- Provided safe and efficient separation services within en route airspace in accordance with FAA standards and procedures.
- Executed real-time decision-making in dynamic, high-volume environments to maintain system flow and minimize delays.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Air Traffic Management
LeTourneau University
Longview, TXSkills
- TBFM
- Traffic Management Initiatives (TMI)
- FAA Command Center Coordination
- Operational Oversight
- Risk Mitigation
- Stakeholder Communication
- Ground Delay/Ground Stop Planning
- Aviation Safety
- Incident Reporting
- Workforce Scheduling
- Training & Development
- Resource Allocation
- Incident Response
- FAA Procedures
Certification
Multi-Engine Commercial Pilot with Instrument Rating
Timeline
Operations Supervisor
FAA – Denver TRACON
12.2023 - Current
Supervisory Traffic Management Coordinator
FAA – Denver ARTCC
06.2023 - 12.2023
Operations Supervisor
FAA – Denver ARTCC
05.2022 - 06.2023
Operations Manager
FAA – Denver ARTCC
11.2021 - 05.2022
Operations Supervisor
FAA – Denver ARTCC
01.2018 - 11.2021
Air Traffic Control Specialist
FAA – Denver ARTCC
01.2012 - 01.2018
Bachelor of Science - Air Traffic Management
LeTourneau University