MICHAEL STEPHENS

CEO, TAMPA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, TAMPA

Stephens oversees the strategic direction of one of the nation's most acclaimed airports, championing operational excellence, technology-driven transformation and an exceptional passenger experience while reinforcing the airport's role as a catalyst for regional economic development. A veteran of both the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Army, he brings more than two decades of executive leadership spanning aviation, law, cybersecurity, technology and public policy. Since joining Tampa International Airport in 2015, he has helped shape the organization's long-term vision, previously serving as general counsel and executive vice president with oversight of information technology, human resources, government and community relations, risk management and business diversity. Stephens has testified before Congress on emerging security threats and has been instrumental in advancing innovative legal and operational frameworks within the aviation industry. He is a graduate of Harvard Business School's Advanced Management Program and holds degrees from Morehouse College and American University, including a JD. He is a graduate of Leadership Florida and serves on the American Association of Airport Executives' Transportation Security Services Committee.