Tristan Atkins has been named director of the Aviation Division at the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), replacing retiring director John Sibold.
Atkins is a 23-year veteran of the Washington State Patrol, where he was commander of the aviation section for 10 years. And, currently, he holds the military rank of colonel, having served as an Army aviator for 28 years.
In his new role, Atkins will continue the work to better integrate aviation with the state’s other transportation modes such as highways, rail and ferries, supporting WSDOT’s overall mission of maintaining a reliable, responsible and sustainable system.
Atkins replaces retiring John Sibold and will begin Aug. 23 in the Aviation Division’s Arlington headquarters office.
Gov. Chris Gregoire recognized Atkins’ leadership skills by awarding him the 2010 Governor’s Award for Leadership in Management.
The Aviation Division is responsible for protecting and preserving the state’s system of 138 public use airports. For more information: WSDOT.wa.gov/aviation
