News Summary
Rosemary Vassiliadis, director of Clark County’s Department of Aviation, will retire in 2025 after 28 years of service. She has been pivotal in elevating Harry Reid International Airport’s status and implementing innovative security measures. Vassiliadis has also focused on human trafficking prevention and has been a key figure during major events in Las Vegas. Her contributions have significantly impacted the aviation landscape and the economy of Southern Nevada.
Las Vegas, NV – Rosemary Vassiliadis, the director of Clark County’s Department of Aviation, is set to retire on September 12, 2025, after a distinguished career spanning over 28 years. Vassiliadis has served as the director since 2013, marking a significant milestone as the first female to hold this position.
In her role, Vassiliadis has played an instrumental part in the growth and success of Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), which has become one of North America’s top 10 commercial airports. Over the past three years, LAS has consistently broken passenger records, establishing itself as a vital hub in regional air travel, with more than 18,000 individuals employed across the airport system. This airport system is a crucial component of Southern Nevada’s economy, valued at approximately $35 billion.
Throughout her tenure, Vassiliadis has overseen five airports, including four general aviation facilities that cater to flight schools and private jet operations. Her leadership has involved initiating numerous significant projects, most notably the partnership with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). This collaboration has allowed LAS to be designated as the only “Innovation Airport” in the nation, serving as a testing ground for new security screening technologies.
In addition to enhancing operational capabilities, Vassiliadis has led efforts to implement a comprehensive human trafficking prevention program. This initiative includes training airport staff to identify victims and installing multilingual signage in all restrooms to raise awareness.
Vassiliadis’s leadership has also been pivotal during critical events in history, including the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Her management saw the smooth flow of millions of passengers through the airport during high-profile events, such as Super Bowl LVIII and the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix. Furthermore, she oversaw the expansion of the airport, which included the addition of D Gates and Terminal 3, enhancing the airport’s capacity and services offered to travelers.
Clark County Manager Kevin Schiller recognized Vassiliadis’s transformative impact on the aviation department and the broader community. Reflecting on her career, Vassiliadis expressed pride in the partnerships that were established and the milestones achieved throughout her service, demonstrating her commitment to supporting the community and its transportation needs.
In preparation for her departure, Vassiliadis will assist in selecting her successor, although the specific details of the replacement process remain pending. One potential candidate emerging for consideration is James Chrisley, the current Clark County Deputy Aviation Director.
Vassiliadis also has an extensive background in public service, which began with the City of Las Vegas in 1984. Her over 40 years of dedicated service includes active roles on several boards, including a term on the board of directors for the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco’s Los Angeles branch and participation in organizations such as the American Association of Airport Executives and the U.S. Travel Association.
The legacy of Rosemary Vassiliadis is marked by significant achievements and contributions that enriched the aviation landscape in Las Vegas and the surrounding regions. As she prepares for her retirement, her influence will continue to be felt in the ongoing development of the airports and the broader aviation community of Southern Nevada.
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Additional Resources
- The Nevada Independent
- Wikipedia: Harry Reid International Airport
- Las Vegas Review-Journal
- Google Search: Rosemary Vassiliadis
- 8 News Now
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Airport
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