Director
Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport | Milwaukee
Since being appointed director of Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport in 2017, Brian Dranzik has led the airport through pandemic headwinds, the ensuing rebound of air travel and the massive influx of visitors to Milwaukee during the 2024 Republican National Convention. Also under his leadership, the airport has added service and revamped its retail and dining options. In summer 2024, county officials announced the revival of previous plans to develop an international terminal that would replace the long-vacant Concourse E at the airport.
Education: Bachelor’s and master’s, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Favorite part of the workday: “Morning. Walking through the airport seeing people off to wherever they are going reminds me of why we do what we do.”
Highlights from the past 12 months: “Negotiating a long-term lease agreement with the airlines, providing stability for the airport and airlines.”
If you could time travel: “I would probably go back to a time when my family immigrated to the U.S. to talk to them and ask them what that was like. I cannot imagine doing something like that.”
The future of your industry: “Aviation is in recovery with room for growth.”
2022 Wisconsin 275 Profile
Manufacturing | Transportation & Logistics
Director
Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport | Milwaukee
Since being appointed director of Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport in 2017, Brian Dranzik has led the Milwaukee airport through the pandemic’s decimation of air travel, its rebound and the recent addition of several new carriers, including Spirit Airlines, Sun Country Airlines, Contour Airlines and JetBlue Airways. Previously, Dranzik was the director of transportation for Milwaukee County.
Education: Bachelor’s and master’s in urban planning, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?
“Paper carrier. Being prompt, on time, and committed every day to deliver on the expectation of customers.”
What piece of advice has had the most significant impact on your career?
“Individual success is often the result of team effort and accomplishment.”
If you could have dinner with any two business leaders, who would you choose and why?
“Richard Branson, CEO of Virgin Group. Mr. Branson has had an amazing career from starting a record store to now being on the forefront of space travel. His excitement and passion for what he does comes through whether it’s in photos or interviews. I don’t think I have every seen a picture of him not smiling or looking like he is not having a great time with whatever endeavor he is involved with. Phil Knight, CEO of Nike. It would interesting to hear how Nike has grown to a top brand in sports while dealing with all of the complexities of the business.”
What are some of your favorite destinations/places to visit?
“I enjoy hiking in the mountains, so almost anywhere out in nature in the Rocky Mountains range works for me.”
What’s your hobby/passion?
“I enjoy golf. For me it’s a great way to get out and relax, enjoy time with friends or get to know new people.”
What was your first car? How long did you drive it for?
“1981 Pontiac Grand Prix. I drove it about a year.”
If you could take a one-year sabbatical, what would you do?
“Probably sleep for 6 months then figure out what to do! All kidding aside, I know I have to keep busy so I would likely travel, but at a pace whereby I could immerse myself in the culture of the places visited.”
What’s the toughest business challenge you’ve had to overcome?
“COVID-19 has been the single biggest challenge to the aviation industry that we are still dealing with. During the earliest stages of COVID-19 we didn’t know how long things would last, where the bottom was, when a rebound would occur, and/or how long that would take. We are still in the recovery stage that will still take some time to overcome. Despite these challenges, we needed to remain open and our team stepped up with increased awareness and attention on the needs of the customer. In doing so, the airport received an award for Best Airport in North America from Airports Council International based on passenger survey responses.”
What advice would you give to a young professional?
“Always keep an open mind. Your initial thoughts and ideas will be challenged. The more open you are to questioning and possibly adapting your position on things, the more successful you will be.”
What has been your/your organization’s most significant success over the last 12 months?
“Attracting three new air carriers to Milwaukee one year after the pandemic, JetBlue, Spirit, and Sun Country airlines. These new carriers provide more travel options, keep fares competitive, and add jobs and economic impact to our region.”
What is one thing you would change about Wisconsin to make it even better?
“The long standing disconnect between Milwaukee and the rest of the state. I am proud to be a Wisconsinite, love everything the state has to offer, and speak fondly about all corners of Wisconsin when taking to those from outside the state. The success of the state is tied to the success of Milwaukee. Milwaukee is not, and cannot be viewed as, an island. States that have embraced their largest urban centers have thrived, it is time for Wisconsin as a state to do the same.”
Is there a nonprofit cause that has special meaning to you?
“Make-A-Wish Wisconsin. I am proud to be on the board of Make-A-Wish Wisconsin. Make-A-Wish is an organization that has such a profound and meaningful impact to help bring hope and happiness to children and their families as they go through incredibly difficult circumstances. I cannot help but to be motivated by the organization as the work and effort that Make-A-Wish staff performs to make wishes come true for kids with life threating illnesses is truly awe-inspiring.”
What is the biggest risk you have ever taken?
“Going back to school and changing course in my career by pursuing my master’s degree. It was at a point in time in my life when I was starting a family and had other obligations. I had quit my job to dedicate my attention to pursuing my degree without knowing what the outcome might be. The path may have been challenging; however, the result was clearly worth it.”
What’s at the top of your bucket list?
“Golfing Pebble Beach.”
What has you most excited about the future?
“I am excited to be emerging from the pandemic so we can get back to a place where we can grow the airport and strengthen its position as a leading economic engine for Milwaukee and southeast Wisconsin. Our goal continues to be adding flights, adding and improving services, updating technology, and developing areas in and around the airport all in the interest of supporting the traveling public and local economy. There is a lot of opportunity in these areas and it will be exciting to bring about these positive changes.”
