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Meet The Team

Our team is a diverse and talented group of professionals dedicated to excellence. We collaborate seamlessly, leveraging our individual strengths to drive innovation, achieve results, and provide exceptional service to our clients.

President

Luis Ayala

A seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience in commercial air transport, possessing extensive expertise in strategic planning, business development, process improvement, project management, and aviation finance. His experience includes managing a portfolio of over 150 aircraft and transaction trade valued of above US $3 billion.

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Vice President of Engine Sales

Joshua Santiago

Working directly with the Chief Development Officer to execute CALC Group’s global aircraft leasing and trading objectives.  Focused on the critical and highly specialized area of our engine strategy. Providing expert analysis and input on Letters of Intent (LOIs) and lease agreements, meticulously managing the engine's life cycle for new, used, and green-time/end-of-life aircraft. 

Senior Business Development and Trading Director

Abbas Shaban

Leads the global aircraft trading and business development efforts at UAM, driving the acquisition, sale, and strategic deployment of our assets. With over a decade of experience in aviation finance and asset management, he plays a critical role in expanding UAM's global footprint and profitability by building strategic relationships with airlines, lessors, OEMs, and financial institutions.

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Executive Office Manager and HR & Admin Director

Catrese Alston

As Executive Office Manager and Director of HR & Administration, Catrese is responsible for guiding the company's operational and strategic direction. Working alongside the CEO, President, and other senior leaders, Catrese oversees department managers and makes high-level decisions that shape the future of the business. A key part of this role is ensuring the seamless and compliant operation of the company by upholding all UAM policies and procedures, including specific EEO, Department of Labor, and Affirmative Action requirements across our multiple business units.

Financial Controller

Catherine DeZemplen

Catherine leads our company's financial operations, where she is responsible for all aspects of financial and operational reporting. This includes managing our accounting, finance, forecasting, and working capital. By implementing and maintaining strong systems and controls, Catherine safeguards our corporate assets and ensures full compliance with company policies, underpinning our business with financial integrity and stability.

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Directory of Disassembly Operations

William Smith

Directs our end-to-end physical operations, from aircraft disassembly to warehouse management. He leads the Director of Disassembly Operations, overseeing our End-of-Life Recycling Program to ensure all objectives for safety, quality, and efficiency are met. This includes supervising all disassembly work, managing tooling, and guaranteeing the integrity of all aircraft and engine maintenance records. Furthermore, Will oversees the Director of Warehouse Operations, ensuring that all inventory management and shipping operations align with UAM's highest standards for operational excellence.

AVP Trading & Business Development

Maria Prothero

As a key member of the CALC portfolio trading team, Maria is responsible for managing and growing the key accounts across the Americas. She cultivates strong, lasting relationships with airlines, lessors, and financial partners from all over, ensuring our solutions align with their unique operational and strategic needs. In addition to her portfolio management duties, Maria plays a pivotal role in driving our business growth by originating transactions for UAM’s mid-to-end-of-life aircraft asset platform. Her expertise in identifying market opportunities and structuring complex deals is instrumental in sourcing new assets and expanding our portfolio.

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Directory of Warehouse Operations

Katina Williams

Katina is responsible for translating UAM's business development strategies into tangible results through operational excellence. She plays a crucial role in setting our strategic financial goals, budgets, and targets, ensuring all systems and resources are optimized for maximum profitability. By providing steady leadership and clear direction to all operational teams, Katina has built significant credibility within our management team and is instrumental in guiding the company's efficiency, effectiveness, and overall success.

Regulatory Compliance Manager

Mitzie Duckett

Mitzie leads the UAM Quality Control and Assurance program, ensuring our operations consistently meet the highest industry standards. She is responsible for the comprehensive oversight of our QC initiatives, from daily inspections to long-term strategic improvements. Mitzie is dedicated to not only maintaining our current standards but also proactively establishing new initiatives that continuously elevate the quality, safety, and reliability of our services.

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Vice President of Technical, Engines

James Kimball

James oversees the strategic management of our global engine assets, ensuring operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and cost-effective performance. He is a seasoned aviation leader who brings extensive experience in engine programs, technical services, and aircraft lifecycle management to this role. His expertise in engine transitions, lease negotiations, and OEM partnerships is key to driving innovation and delivering satisfaction to our customers across the globe.

© 2025 Universal Asset Management Inc.

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