Henry W. Bloch School of Management students consulted on the new employees' transportation needs.

Msgana Zegeye, Nicolas Hartung, Erik Klaas and Henry Meeds consulted with Vantage Airport Group, the vendor management company.

"Participating in a once-in-a-generation project like an airport opening, and making a meaningful impact on my city, has been an unforgettable experience that has provided me with valuable and unique learning opportunities," Meeds said. "It is a chance to work alongside other talented individuals who are committed to making a positive impact in the community."

Interviews and B-Roll of these students are available upon request.

UMKC alumni played major roles in the design and construction of the new single terminal for Kansas City International Airport.

Hagos Andebrhan (B.S.C.E. ’78), CEO of Taliaferro & Browne Inc., and his partner Leonard Graham (B.A. ’74), president, have led the company as the civil engineer of record on projects including the redevelopment of Union Station and the IRS Regional Service Center, as well as renovations of Arrowhead and Kauffman stadiums, the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts and Berkley Riverfront Park. The firm’s specific responsibilities include project management and coordination, design of permanent roadways, including roundabouts and bridges, street and parking lot lighting, surface parking lots, utility relocation, storm and sanitary sewers, mass grading and associated project phasing.

Kimberly Robinett (B.S.E.E. ‘95), CEO and managing partner of TREKK, has led the organization with an entrepreneurial spirit since she founded it with her husband and TREKK partner Trent (B.S.C.E. ’95) in 2002. Her ability to focus on delivering quality work on schedule has led to TREKK’s participation in developing the infrastructure for the new Kansas City International Airport.

Even before the construction started, there was work to be done. Joe McBride (B.A. ’86), College of Arts and Sciences graduate, was tasked with facing the early obstacles in getting Kansas City’s new airport terminal off the ground. As senior manager of communications for the Kansas City Aviation Department, McBride’s job had always been to put the best possible face on the airport.

Studio Art Professor Kati Toivanen is a featured artist in Terminal B.

"I have completed several temporary public art projects around Kansas City and the region over the years, but this was my first permanent commission, which made it particularly meaningful," Toivanen said. "I grew up in Finland and have traveled quite a bit in my life to visit family, much of it with my son. When he was little, my carry-on needed to consider his needs for snacks, entertainment and other basic needs. The collection of objects in the project reflects this universal experience of family travel. It is my hope that the project will provide entertainment for both parents and children as they explore and discover familiar objects in the images."

Contact: Emma Fahrlander  | 816-235-1596  |  efahrlander@umkc.edu