Staff report

The Ohio Aviation Association named state Rep. Nick Santucci, R-Niles, as its legislator of the year.

Tony Flore, the association’s executive director, said Santucci was awarded the honor for “his leadership and his efforts to ensure that Ohio continues to be a center of innovation for the aviation industry.”

Santucci said: “When we work to attract Fortune 100 and 500 companies to Ohio, their first impression often begins the moment they land. That’s why having state-of-the-art airports and a strong partnership with our aviation industry is essential. By investing in modern infrastructure and supporting innovation, we position Ohio not only to lead the nation in aerospace, but also in defense and the future of air technologies. I look forward to continuing this work to ensure Ohio becomes the No. 1 state in aerospace leadership.”