As this year comes to a close, so does my time as President of VATSIM. Tonight, after four unforgettable years in this role, I step aside with a deep sense of gratitude, pride, and confidence in the future of our network.
VATSIM exists for one reason only: its volunteers. At every level of the organization—local, regional, divisional, and global—thousands of individuals freely give their time, energy, and expertise to make this community what it is. Whether you are staffing a position, mentoring new members, developing software, maintaining infrastructure, organizing events, handling training, or working quietly behind the scenes, your contribution matters more than you may ever fully realize.
I want to take a moment to specifically recognize the extraordinary work of our technology teams. Behind every smooth connection, new feature, system upgrade, and reliability improvement is a group of volunteers who are constantly innovating, problem-solving, and pushing the network forward. Their work is often invisible when things are going well—but it is absolutely foundational to everything VATSIM does. Over the past four years, their commitment to modernizing and strengthening the network has played a critical role in ensuring VATSIM remains stable, scalable, and ready for the future.
Over my term, I have had the privilege of working alongside some of the most dedicated, thoughtful, and capable volunteers I have ever encountered. Your willingness to step up, collaborate across teams, tackle complex challenges, and continuously improve the organization is what has allowed VATSIM not only to endure, but to grow in meaningful and sustainable ways.
Leadership roles may change, but the heart of VATSIM remains constant. It is found in the controllers who log on after long days, the pilots who bring the skies to life, the supervisors who serve with professionalism and patience, the developers and engineers who keep the network evolving, and the countless volunteers who ensure the organization functions smoothly and fairly. You are the reason VATSIM works.
As I step down, I do so with complete confidence in those who will continue this work. The future of VATSIM is bright because it is built on a foundation of committed volunteers who care deeply about this community and each other.
Finally, if you are in a position to do so, I would encourage you to consider making a donation to VATSIM. Financial contributions directly support the infrastructure, tools, and services that enable our volunteers to do what they do best—and help ensure the long-term sustainability of the network we all value so highly.
Donate HERE.
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Thank you for the trust you placed in me, for the support you showed throughout my term, and—most importantly—for everything you do for VATSIM. It has been the honour of a lifetime to serve you.
With sincere appreciation and best wishes for the year ahead,
Tim