Jackson-Madison County Airport Authority announces retirement of Executive Director Steve Smith
Jackson-Madison County Airport Authority Announces Retirement of Executive Director Steve Smith
Jackson, TN – 1/6/25 – The Jackson-Madison County Airport Authority has announced the upcoming retirement of its Executive Director, Steve Smith, effective at the end of January 2025. Smith’s departure marks the conclusion of an impactful 16-year tenure at Jackson Regional Airport (formerly McKellar-Sipes Regional Airport).
Smith assumed his role as Executive Director in January 2009, following a comprehensive nine-month search. Prior to his tenure in Jackson, he served as Airport Manager at Selmer’s Robert Sibley Airport for 12 years. Under his guidance, Jackson Regional Airport has undergone over $50 million in transformative improvements, including the resurfacing of runways 11-29 (2012) and 2-20 (2024), and the overhaul of Taxiway Alpha (2015).
In 2010, Smith led the Airport Authority’s acquisition of the Fixed Base Operation (FBO), which became profitable in its first year and has remained a vital asset, solidified the airport’s self-sufficiency and propelled it to rank among the top six airports in Tennessee.
Reflecting on his time, Smith stated:
“I have been truly blessed to have been a part of the growth taking place in Jackson and Madison County. With the addition of jet service to Atlanta and Chicago, the sky is really the limit.”
Smith’s contributions extend beyond the airport grounds. He served as Vice-President and later President of the Tennessee Aviation Association (TAA), where he was Master of Ceremonies for seven statewide airport conferences. In 2014, he earned the prestigious Tennessee Airport Manager of the Year award, which he shared with Deputy Director Cindy Melton.
Tributes to Steve Smith
Smith’s colleagues and community leaders have expressed their gratitude and admiration for his leadership:
- Rusty Reviere, Chairman, Jackson-Madison County Airport Authority:
“With Steve at the helm, Jackson Regional Airport has been transformed into one of the top six airports in the state. His vision and leadership have set us on a solid path forward. To say he leaves enormous shoes to fill is an understatement. He will be greatly missed.” - Tim Wilson, Former Chairman, Jackson-Madison County Airport Authority:
“Steve managed the airport with incredible efficiency, created a strong team culture, and demonstrated unmatched expertise in navigating the regulations affecting the airport. His leadership with the FBO acquisition turned it into a valuable asset for the county and users alike. Madison County residents should be very thankful for his time here.” - A.J. Massey, Madison County Mayor:
“Steve Smith’s retirement marks the conclusion of an extraordinary chapter of leadership. His tireless advocacy and transformative projects, such as the $24 million runway renovation, have strengthened our community and prepared us for future success. Steve’s commitment and friendship leave a lasting legacy.” - Scott Conger, Mayor of Jackson:
“Steve Smith has been a true champion for our airport and our community. His leadership and vision have propelled our airport’s growth and benefited all of Jackson. His heart and dedication have left a lasting impact, and we wish him the best in his next chapter.”
Smith’s retirement signals the end of an era for Jackson Regional Airport, but his contributions will continue to guide its progress for decades to come.
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