Thomas "Chris" Curry

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Baldwin County Metropolitan Area, United States, Spanish Fort, Alabama, United States

(251) 348-0025

chris@tccaviationsolutions.com

 

A Dynamic CEO with extensive experience in leading large, diverse, and complex organizations, as well as proficiency in various aspects of aviation operations strategy. My expertise includes public safety and security, resiliency, facility renewal, replacement, and maintenance, emergency preparedness, crisis management, vendor negotiations, and economic growth in commercial functions. This encompasses air service development, cargo expansion, and enhancements in non-aeronautical revenue.

I excel in cross-functional team building, conflict resolution, and enriching customer and client services. Additionally, I have cultivated partnerships with stakeholders and communities, managed large-scale capital improvement programs, and developed and implemented strategic business and budget plans.

As a seasoned executive, I have successfully forged partnerships with elected officials at the local, state, and national levels, as well as with communities, businesses, and civic organizations.

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Employment History

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October 2024 — Present

CEO, TCC Aviation Solutions LLC

Spanish Fort, AL

As the CEO of TCC Aviation Solutions LLC, I guided the executive transition at Toledo Port, hired a new Airport Director, and provided strategic organizational recommendations. I managed key operations for Amazon Gateway and Allegiant Airlines while supporting the mission of the 186th Air National Guard. Collaborating with leading architectural and engineering firms at three airports, I contributed to impactful projects. To drive business development and growth, I worked with concessionaires in retail, food, beverage, parking, and advertising. My commitment to excellence has consistently enhanced the aviation landscape.

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September 2018 — Oct 2024

President, Mobile Airport Authority

 

As the President of the Mobile Airport Authority, I had the privilege of managing a diverse portfolio of assets valued at $200 million, while overseeing the operations of several key aviation facilities, including Mobile Regional Airport, Mobile International Airport, St. Elmo Airport, and Mobile Aeroplex at Brookley. My tenure involved comprehensive initiatives such as conducting feasibility studies and master planning, with a significant milestone being the relocation of commercial airline services from the airport positioned west of the city to the heart of Downtown Mobile. I raised over $281 million in revenue, enabling the construction of a state-of-the-art terminal without incurring any debt. This achievement required fostering strategic partnerships with major airlines, including United, American, Delta, and Breeze, and key industry players like the Airbus Final Assembly Line, Engineering, Space and Defense, ST Aerospace, and Continental Motors. These collaborations enhanced operational capacity and resulted in an impressive $4 billion overall economic benefits for the region.

Furthermore, I played a critical role in facilitating the expansion of the Airbus Final Assembly Lines, which has positioned Mobile as the nation's fourth-largest city for airport assembly operations.

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Oct 2017 — Oct 2018

Executive Director, Mobile Airport Authority

Mobile, AL

As the Executive Director of the Mobile Regional Airport Authority, I proudly oversaw the management of several airports in Mobile, Alabama. Through the implementation of innovative strategic initiatives, I enhanced operational efficiency, revitalized infrastructure, and significantly drove revenue growth. Under my leadership, we elevated customer satisfaction and achieved remarkable success for the airports, positioning them as vital hubs in the region.

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Dec 2013 — Sep 2017

Director of Aviation, City of Tallahassee

Tallahassee, FL

As the Director of Aviation at Tallahassee Airport, I was responsible for strategic planning, ensuring regulatory compliance, and enhancing customer service within the Aviation Division. I managed the Commercial Development Division, emphasizing tenant compliance and the inclusion of small businesses. I oversaw the airport's transition to an international facility, a $30 million runway rehabilitation project to improve safety, and a $20 million terminal renovation. I was responsible for overseeing financial management and providing strategic direction for organizational development within the Finance and Administration Division. My focus was on improving operational efficiency and optimizing the customer experience. I was also honored to be named FDOT Aviation Professional of the Year in 2016.

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Aug 2010 — Sep 2013

Executive Director, Collier County Airport Authority

Naples, FL

As the Executive Director of the Collier County Airport Authority, I oversaw operations and personnel at three general aviation airports in Collier County, Florida. I successfully led multiple expansion projects, including a $6 million taxiway and apron expansion at Marco Island Executive Airport. Additionally, I negotiated partnerships with Enterprise Car Rental and supervised the construction of a new Jet Testing Facility at Immokalee Regional Airport.

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Aug 2004 — Sep 2010

Executive Director, Gary/Chicago International Airport

Gary, IN

As the Executive Director of Gary Chicago International Airport, I oversaw airport operations and personnel while reporting to two airport authorities. I successfully managed a $120 million runway expansion project, negotiated with four major railroads, and enhanced air cargo operations. Additionally, I supervised the burial of high-voltage power lines and the relocation of a substation to improve runway clearances needed to expand the primary runway.

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Nov 2002 — Aug 2004

Project Manager Airspace Design, Jeppesen

Atlanta, GA

As the Project Manager for Airspace Design, I oversaw the development of Terminal Instrument Procedures (TERPS) in the United States and internationally, adhering to ICAO PANS-OPS and U.S. TERPS criteria. I designed the airspace for the Turks and Caicos Islands, which involved realigning the airway system and creating six RNAV (GPS) procedures. Additionally, I coordinated with the FAA, NACO, and NFDC to publish and certify these procedures. I also authored technical reports for various airports.

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Mar 1987 — Feb 2001

Air Traffic Control, U.S. Air Force

RAF Mildenhall, UK

As the Chief Air Traffic Controller at the 3rd Air Force, I supervised 300 air traffic controllers and airfield management personnel across 10 USAF bases in four different countries. I was certified in radar and tower air traffic control and received training in airfield management. Additionally, I conducted annual inspections to ensure compliance with safety and security standards.

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