Andrew Harsh, A.A.E., Usap, Iace, Asc
About Andrew Harsh, A.A.E., Usap, Iace, Asc
Andrew Harsh is an Emergency Manager at Ontario International Airport, where he has worked since 2020. He has extensive experience in airport operations and emergency management, having held various roles at multiple aviation authorities and educational institutions.
Work at Ontario International Airport Authority
Andrew Harsh serves as the Emergency Manager at Ontario International Airport, a position he has held since 2020. In this role, he leads the airport's emergency preparedness and response initiatives. He collaborates with local jurisdictions, including the Ontario Fire Department and Ontario Police Department, to ensure effective coordination of emergency plans. Harsh also acts as an Alternate Airport Security Coordinator, overseeing security measures and protocols. His responsibilities include advising senior leadership on health and safety policies, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring the safety of employees and customers.
Education and Expertise
Andrew Harsh has a strong educational background in aviation management and business administration. He studied Aviation Management at Jacksonville University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree from 2001 to 2004. He furthered his education by obtaining an MBA from National University in 2012. Harsh is currently pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration with an emphasis in Management at Grand Canyon University, which he began in 2016. Additionally, he completed a Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt certification at the University of Central Florida in 2024.
Background in Aviation Operations
Harsh has extensive experience in aviation operations, having worked in various roles at multiple airports. He was employed at Jacksonville Aviation Authority in several capacities, including Operations Duty Officer and Landside Operations Duty Officer, from 2003 to 2006. He also served at John Wayne Airport, County of Orange, where he held positions such as Airport Operations Officer and Manager of Emergency Preparedness from 2007 to 2016. His experience includes managing emergency preparedness activities and participating in significant projects like the Airline Common Use Passenger Processing System.
Professional Experience in Emergency Management
Before joining Ontario International Airport, Andrew Harsh worked as the Director of Emergency Management at Morlin Asset Management, LP, overseeing emergency protocols at Los Angeles Union Station from 2019 to 2020. His expertise in emergency management is further demonstrated by his role as Manager of Emergency Preparedness at John Wayne Airport. He has coordinated emergency preparedness activities with key airport tenants, including federal agencies like the FBI and TSA, ensuring comprehensive emergency plans are in place.
Achievements in Collaborative Emergency Planning
Harsh has been instrumental in coordinating emergency preparedness activities with various stakeholders at Ontario International Airport. He works closely with airlines, Customs and Border Protection, and local emergency management agencies to develop and implement effective emergency response strategies. His leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic highlights his ability to adapt and advise on health and safety measures, ensuring the airport's readiness to handle emergencies while maintaining operational continuity.