He’s the first in the airport’s five-decade history!
Michael Stephens has made history as the first Black CEO of Tampa International Airport (TPA), WTSP news reports. Stephens will take over for current CEO Joe Lopano, who announced his retirement back in February. Stephens is a U.S. Army veteran serving on active duty as a captain and trial counsel in the Army’s Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) Corps. He has nearly 25 years of experience “managing complex legal, compliance, human resources, labor, and employment issues,” and previously served as special assistant U.S. attorney and an active duty air traffic controller in the U.S. Air Force. Currently, Stephens serves as executive vice president and general counsel for TPA.
“I could not be more proud of Michael, who has truly been one of the most brilliant and well-rounded professionals I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. I have no doubt, given his track record and ties to this community, that he will be able to not only lead this organization through any challenge, but take it to new heights as we enter the next era of aviation,” Lopano said of his successor.
52-year-old Stephens will be the first Black CEO and the fourth person to hold the title since Tampa International Airport opened in 1971. TPA board members voted for Stephen’s appointment 4-1, with the decision nine months in the making. The board will begin contract negotiations with Stephens soon, who said he is eager to take the reins.
“Tampa International Airport is a beloved institution and an industry icon, and I’m looking forward to leading our organization while building on an award-winning reputation of excellence. It will be an incredible honor to follow in Joe’s footsteps and lead some of the best talent in the business. I’m thankful to the Board and our community for this opportunity to build onto the TPA legacy,” Stephens said via statement.
In his new role, he will oversee more than 670 employees who manage and operate TPA and Peter O. Knight, Tampa Executive, and Plant City airports. Stephens will assume the role after Lopano’s retirement in April 2025.
Cover photo: Michael Stephens Makes History as First Black CEO of Tampa International Airport/Photo credit: Tampa International Airport/WTSP News