Jackson Regional Airport honors Executive Director Steve Smith on his retirement
PRESS RELEASE FROM JACKSON REGIONAL AIRPORT:
Jackson Regional Airport Honors Executive Director Steve Smith on His Retirement
More Than 150 Attend Celebration for a Leader Who Helped Transform Regional Aviation
(Jackson, TN) November 18th, before a crowd of well over 150 community leaders, partners, and friends, Steve Smith, Executive Director of the Jackson-Madison County Airport Authority, was honored for his extraordinary 17-year career at Jackson Regional Airport. Though Smith announced his retirement back in January, guests couldn’t resist noting, with a bit of fun, that it took him until November to actually walk out the door. As one attendee joked, “He’s giving Tom Brady and Michael Jordan a run for their money when it comes to retirement announcements.”
The event featured a custom celebration cake adorned with the Jackson Regional Airport logo and the words “Happy Retirement,” symbolizing the close of a remarkable chapter in West Tennessee aviation.
A Career Defined by Progress and Vision
Smith began his role as Executive Director in January 2009, following a thorough nine-month national search. Prior to his work in Jackson, he spent 12 years as Airport Manager at Selmer’s Robert Sibley Airport, earning a reputation for dependable leadership and operational excellence.
During his tenure at Jackson Regional Airport, Smith oversaw more than $50 million in transformational improvements, including:
- Runway 11-29 resurfacing (2012)
- Taxiway Alpha reconstruction (2015)
- Runway 2-20 reconstructed (2024)
- Numerous facility and safety enhancements that strengthened the airport’s long-term infrastructure
His leadership played a pivotal role in modernizing the airport and positioning it as a critical asset for regional economic growth.
Strengthening Financial Independence
One of Smith’s most impactful accomplishments came in 2010, when he led the Airport Authority’s acquisition of the Fixed Base Operation (FBO). Under local management, the FBO became profitable in its first year and has remained a core asset—supporting the airport’s financial stability and helping secure its position among the top six airports in Tennessee.
Influence Across the State
Beyond Jackson, Smith made a statewide impact through his work with the Tennessee Aviation Association (TAA), serving as both Vice-President and President. He also lent his wit and professionalism as Master of Ceremonies for seven statewide airport conferences.
In 2014, he received the prestigious Tennessee Airport Manager of the Year Award, an honor he shared with Deputy Director Cindy Melton, reflecting the strength of their long-standing partnership.
A Leader Reflects
Looking back on his years of service, Smith said:
“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.”
His tenure included the successful expansion of commercial jet service, major infrastructure upgrades, and unprecedented passenger growth—achievements that have reshaped aviation opportunities throughout West Tennessee.
A Fitting Farewell
The celebration brought together business leaders, aviation professionals, elected officials, and longtime colleagues—all united in gratitude for Smith’s leadership and dedication.
“Steve’s impact on Jackson Regional Airport will be felt for decades,” guests remarked. “He leaves behind a stronger, more connected, and forward-moving airport than the one he inherited.”
As he begins his well-deserved retirement (this time for real), the Jackson-Madison County Airport Authority and the entire West Tennessee community extend their heartfelt thanks.
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