Our Team
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Kevin J. Allis - Founder & Executive Director (Tribal Member: Forest County Potawatomi Community)
It all starts with a dream—a spark of curiosity that takes flight. Perhaps you see yourself in the cockpit, commanding the skies as a pilot. Or maybe you're drawn to the intricate mechanics of fixing airplanes, managing bustling airports, or orchestrating the flow of flying machines through the sky as a controller. Perhaps it's a hobby waiting to take off into something greater. Or maybe you’re simply ready to explore one of the most captivating industries in the world. After 30 years as a pilot, I can promise you this: aviation will ignite a passion like no other. Our vision is to introduce you to this extraordinary world and help you discover the thrill, challenge, and wonder that keeps me inspired every single day.
Kevin J. Allis is the visionary founder of the Native American Aviation Association as well as the government relations firm of Thunderbird Strategies, LLC, a firm dedicated to championing Native American rights. As a proud member of the Forest County Potawatomi Community, Kevin brings a deep-rooted commitment to understanding and advocating for Indian Country.
Kevin’s distinguished career includes serving as Chief Executive Officer of the National Congress of American Indians, Executive Director of the Native American Contractors Association, and Chairman of the Board for the Potawatomi Business Development Corporation. He also serves on the Board of Directors of Race Forward, a leading organization that catalyzes movement building for racial justice. In this capacity, Kevin contributes his expertise to advancing equity and inclusion initiatives, ensuring that the voices and experiences of Native Americans are a vital part of broader racial justice conversations and solutions.
As a seasoned Federal Indian law attorney, Kevin blends legal expertise and a strong business acumen with a robust background in government relations. With years of experience navigating the complexities of Washington, D.C., he excels in building influential relationships with congressional leaders, administrative agencies, and advocacy organizations. His proven leadership, strategic acumen, and commitment to equity make him a powerful force in advancing key initiatives and priorities for Indian Country and beyond.