News Summary
James Chrisley has been named the new director of aviation for Clark County, succeeding Rosemary Vassiliadis after her retirement. With over 30 years of experience, Chrisley will oversee five major airports, including the busy Harry Reid International Airport. His leadership and previous contributions to major events are expected to enhance aviation operations and address future challenges. The transition signals a focus on continuity and modernization as Clark County continues to grow economically.
Las Vegas – James Chrisley has been appointed as the new director of aviation for the Clark County Department of Aviation, stepping in to replace Rosemary Vassiliadis, who retired after a decade of leadership in the role. Chrisley, a seasoned aviation executive with over 30 years of experience, will be tasked with managing the county’s extensive five-airport system, which plays a critical role in generating more than $35 billion in annual economic activity.
The Clark County airport system encompasses several key facilities, including Harry Reid International Airport, Henderson Executive Airport, North Las Vegas Airport, Jean Sport Aviation Center, and Overton-Perkins Field. Of these, Harry Reid International Airport is particularly noteworthy, as it is ranked among the top 10 busiest airports in North America, handling millions of travelers each year.
Clark County Manager Kevin Schiller expressed confidence in Chrisley’s capabilities, citing his extensive background in aviation management and leadership. In his prior role as the senior director of aviation, Chrisley was instrumental in coordinating major events such as the Las Vegas Grand Prix and Super Bowl LVIII, showcasing his ability to effectively manage high-pressure situations in a fast-paced environment.
Experience and Accomplishments
Chrisley’s wealth of experience is highlighted by his significant contributions to the development of the Southern Nevada Supplemental Airport, where he was involved in strategic planning and execution. Additionally, he has directed master planning efforts for multiple airports within Clark County, which are pivotal in accommodating the region’s rapid growth and evolving transportation needs.
His military background is substantial; Chrisley spent over 21 years in the U.S. Air Force, serving as a civil engineering and mission support officer. This experience not only provided him with leadership skills but also ingrained a strong understanding of the operational demands and logistics involved in aviation infrastructure.
Transition in Leadership
With the transition from Vassiliadis to Chrisley, there is a clear emphasis on continuity and expertise in the aviation department. Vassiliadis, who led the department since 2013, praised Chrisley’s extensive knowledge of the airport system and affirmed his suitability for the role. The transition comes at a critical time, as the aviation sector is poised for modernization and expansion, aimed at enhancing efficiency and traveler experience.
Chrisley will face the challenges of optimizing operations, addressing increasing passenger demands, and implementing modernization initiatives across the airport system. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to leverage his industry knowledge as Clark County continues to develop its aviation infrastructure to support economic growth in the region.
Looking Ahead
Chrisley’s leadership is expected to play a vital role in shaping the future of aviation in Clark County. His proven track record, coupled with the support of experienced colleagues and community stakeholders, positions him well to navigate the evolving landscape of the aviation industry. As he steps into this key leadership role, both Schiller and Vassiliadis anticipate that Chrisley will build on the strong foundation established by his predecessor, driving innovation and excellence in aviation services for Clark County.
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Additional Resources
- Las Vegas Sun
- Wikipedia: Harry Reid International Airport
- RGJ
- Google Search: Clark County Aviation
- CDC Gaming Reports
- Google Scholar: Aviation Management
- 8 News Now
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aviation
- Fox 5 Vegas
- Google News: Las Vegas aviation
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LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER The LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELasVegas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Las Vegas, Clark County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Electric Daisy Carnival, World Series of Poker, and Consumer Electronics Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce and Three Square Food Bank, plus leading businesses in hospitality and entertainment that power the local economy such as MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, and Las Vegas Sands. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Nevada's dynamic landscape.
