People Spotlight: Meet Linell Homentosky
Our People Spotlight series gives you an inside look at our technical experts around the world. This week, we’re highlighting a leader from our aviation business whose lifelong passion for flight has shaped a remarkable career focused on connecting people and places.
Linell Homentosky is a vice president and aviation market sector lead for the New England, Mid-Atlantic and Southeast regions. With more than 15 years in the consulting industry and prior experience at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Northeast Philadelphia Airport (PNE), Linell brings a rare combination of airport-side and delivery expertise to her leadership role. She guides complex aviation programs across planning, engineering and design, helping clients enhance safety, efficiency and passenger experiences. A Kent State University alumna, Linell’s journey — from student pilot to aviation leader — reflects her deep commitment to the future of airports and the communities they serve.
What inspired you to join the industry?
My fascination with aviation began when I was five years old. On a flight to Florida, the pilots invited me into the cockpit, gave me a little pin with a pair of wings and told me I could fly a plane one day. From that moment, I knew aviation would be part of my life.
I went on to study at Kent State University, earning my private pilot’s license and later shifting my focus from commercial flight to aviation management. I realized that what interested me most was not just being in the air, but understanding how airports function — the business, logistics and planning that keep them running smoothly.
Throughout my career, I’ve continued to find inspiration in how this industry connects the world. Whether I’m boarding a short regional flight or an international route, I still feel the same excitement that first drew me to aviation.
I realized that what interested me most was not just being in the air, but understanding how airports function — the business, logistics and planning that keep them running smoothly.
What is your favorite AECOM project that you’ve worked on and why?
The Kent State FedEx Aeronautics Academic Center will always hold a special place in my heart — having spent countless hours at the Kent State Airport as a student pilot.
When I learned that the university planned to build a new facility to elevate the student experience, I saw an opportunity to give back to the place that shaped my career. I facilitated AECOM’s partnership with Kent State to design the new, state-of-the-art building. Seeing that facility come to life — and knowing I played a part in it — was a full-circle moment.
My team and I are continuing to partner with Kent State, having recently launched a project to design an advanced air mobility training center and hangar that supports emerging aviation technologies.
A recent highlight of my career was being featured in an article and video by Kent State outlining my journey in aviation. It’s rewarding to help my alma mater stay at the forefront of aeronautics, while inspiring the next generation of aviation professionals.
I facilitated AECOM’s partnership with Kent State to design the new, state-of-the-art building. Seeing that facility come to life — and knowing I played a part in it — was a full-circle moment.
facilities like the PHL Pavement and Grounds Maintenance Building (pictured).
Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community.
I’m currently working with our multidisciplinary teams to support Philadelphia’s Department of Aviation on projects that enhance safety and deliver a better traveler experience. Throughout our history working with PHL, we’ve delivered airfield improvements, baggage handling system upgrades, roadway enhancements and new passenger facilities — all while keeping the airport operational throughout construction.
One project I’m especially proud of is the rehabilitation of the airport’s central deicing facility. The work transformed the apron and operations area while maintaining full winter readiness — a critical factor for safety and efficiency. By carefully phasing construction, our team minimized disruptions for crews and travelers, creating safer, more reliable winter operations for years to come.
When I travel through PHL today, I appreciate these improvements and remember the immense collaboration behind them. I’m incredibly proud to be a part of projects that contribute to the character of the airport and the City of Philadelphia.
One project I’m especially proud of is the rehabilitation of the airport’s central deicing facility. By carefully phasing construction, our team minimized disruptions for crews and travelers, creating safer, more reliable winter operations for years to come.
Share a piece of career advice.
My advice centers on two principles that have guided my career: building strong networks and earning trust.
First, I learned early on the value of getting involved outside of my day-to-day work. Joining the Philadelphia Chapter of Women’s Transportation Seminar (WTS) helped me develop professional relationships that continue to shape my career today. I’m still active in WTS, as well as the American Association of Airport Executives and the Airport Consultants Council.
My involvement with these organizations ensures I stay up to date on industry trends, exchange knowledge with peers and leaders, and identify opportunities to support our aviation clients and collaborate across the industry.
Second, establishing trust is equally important as building strong networks. The aviation development industry is a small world where we’re all one connection away from each other. Your word and your work are your reputation. I strive to uphold that trust every day with clients, colleagues and partners. Aviation is an industry built on precision, reliability and passion, and I try to bring all three to everything I do.