Mike Lorden, president and owner of Aviation Supplies & Academics (ASA) has announced plans to retire Dec. 31, 2021.
ASA is the leading publisher of aviation books and the largest producer of pilot supplies in the United States.
Lorden has been with ASA for 36 years, longer than any other employee. He began his career as ASA’s marketing manager, served as its long-time general manager, and for the past six years has been president and owner.
Under his leadership, the company grew from 50 products to more than 1,000 products. In addition to publishing, ASA expanded its pilot supply offering to include the CX-3 electronic flight computer and the industry’s only lifetime warranty HS-1A headset, company officials note.
Beginning Jan. 1, 2022, Greg Robbins will become ASA’s new owner while maintaining his role as sales manager. Robbins, who has a Commercial pilot certificate with Multi-Engine, Instrument, and Seaplane ratings, will be the sixth family-operated owner in ASA’s history.
Jackie Spanitz will remain as general manager, company officials noted.