Fort McMurray International Airport Named One of Five North American Airports to Achieve Airport Workforce Development Accreditation

February 8, 2025

Fort McMurray, AB – Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) is proud to be recognized as one of the first five airports in North America to receive Airport Workforce Development Accreditation, a newly launched program by Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA).

This first-of-its-kind initiative provides a structured roadmap to help airports enhance workforce skills, elevate employee engagement, and strengthen workforce readiness across the industry.

YMM has been accredited at Level 1, recognizing its efforts in establishing foundational workforce practices and raising awareness of the airport’s pivotal role in the community. Other accredited airports include Toronto Pearson International Airport, Denver International Airport, Rapid City Regional Airport, and San Francisco International Airport.

“We are honoured to be among the first airports in North America to achieve this accreditation,” said Denean Robinson, President & CEO of the Fort McMurray Airport Authority. “This recognition underscores our commitment to workforce development, ensuring that we continue to attract, develop, and retain skilled talent to support our airport, our community, and the broader aviation industry. It validates the efforts we’ve already put in place while providing a framework to build upon.”

ACI-NA President & CEO Kevin M. Burke praised YMM’s achievement, stating, “YMM has demonstrated excellence in strategic workforce planning and employee engagement, setting a new benchmark for the industry. We are proud to recognize YMM on their accreditation under this program and look forward to assisting more airports and business partners in attaining their accreditation soon.”

The Airport Workforce Development Accreditation consists of five progressive levels:

As YMM continues to build on this foundation, it remains committed to creating a strong, skilled, and engaged workforce that will support the region’s aviation needs for years to come.

For more information about the Airport Workforce Development Accreditation, visit ACI-NA’s website.

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About Fort McMurray International Airport | flyymm.com  

Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) is owned and operated by the Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA). YMM connects the world to Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo. YMM offers direct flights to three major Canadian cities, and acts as the launch point for air taxi services to various remote communities. The airport is a major economic driver for the region, with an economic impact of over $290 million, supporting over 40 businesses and 500 jobs on airport campus.

Fort McMurray Airport Authority Media Contact: 

Jessica Lipton, Manager, Marketing & Communications 

780-880-0333 / Jessica.Lipton@flyymm.com