Ashley Bouzianis's journey is one marked by dedication and resilience, most notably showcased during the aftermath of Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017. Serving as the marketing director for Bohlke International Aviation on St. Croix at the time, she played a pivotal role in recovery efforts. From driving first responders to coordinating medical evacuation flights, Bouzianis exemplified leadership on the ground. Her collaboration with national media outlets, including CNN and NPR, facilitated critical coverage, contributing to relief funding and support for the U.S. Virgin Islands.
"I am most proud of the way the U.S. Virgin Islands general aviation community collectively handled the aftermath of back-to-back category five Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017,” she said. “Thanks to a multitude of relief efforts that traveled in, and the way we worked collaboratively, we were able to save lives and get supplies to those most in need."
Bouzianis's impact extends beyond marketing; she is an advocate for the broader aviation community. Her efforts resulted in the timely repair of St. Croix airport's perimeter fence, crucial for hosting the U.S. Air Force Hurricane Hunters. Through her advocacy and collaboration with Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett, the fencing was funded and replaced, ensuring continued operations.
As the marketing director of Standard Aviation on St. Thomas, Bouzianis led her team to secure approximately 75% of the market share since the facility's opening in July 2020. Her strategic vision and leadership also earned the team the top accolade for Caribbean FBOs in the 2022 Professional Pilot PRASE survey.
"I enjoy being part of the Standard Aviation team predominantly because it supports tourism to the U.S. Virgin Islands, the lifeblood of our economy,” she said. “Standard Aviation’s world-class facility introduced a significantly higher level bespoke to private aviation clientele."
Bouzianis's commitment to diversity is evident in her role on the Air Elite Board of Directors, where she serves as one of the youngest and most tenured members. Actively promoting diversity, she has played a key role in expanding the board to include more female members. Recognizing the importance of encouraging young professionals and women to enter the aviation industry, Bouzianis is working on initiatives to engage and inspire the next generation.
Bouzianis said she is motived to succeed in aviation by her children, “Any chance I get to have them involved in my work, I certainly do. Whether that is seeing a rare aircraft on the ramp or hopping on an empty-leg flight for a day trip, they are immersed in aviation with me."
As a member of Women in Corporate Aviation, she actively participates in panels and events, striving to create a more inclusive aviation landscape. Her dedication to this cause extends to hosting Take Our Sons and Daughters to Work Day events, introducing children to the diverse career opportunities within the industry.
Looking to the future, she said "I want to continue having a positive impact for U.S. Virgin Islands tourism. In terms of the business aviation industry, I am an advocate for getting more women involved in leadership positions and starting that interest at a young age."
