Retired Marine and former Montgomery Regional Airport administrator returns home with plans to expand aviation training, strengthen infrastructure and position the Selma airport for economic growth
SELMA, Ala. | Craig Field Airport and Industrial Authority has named Selma native James W. Thomas its new executive director, placing a veteran airport administrator and retired U.S. Marine at the helm as the former military airfield looks to expand aviation training, attract investment and strengthen its role in economic development across Alabama's Black Belt.
The authority's Board of Directors formally introduced Thomas during a September news conference following a nationwide search that drew 23 applicants. Thomas began work Sept. 21.
Thomas returns to his hometown after five years at Montgomery Regional Airport, where his work included airport administration, contract and financial oversight, lease management, procurement, capital development projects, airline coordination, regulatory compliance and stakeholder engagement.
His appointment marks a homecoming for the Selma High School graduate, whose career has also included communications, broadcasting and business development. Thomas served in the U.S. Marine Corps before retiring in 2005 and is a graduate of the University of Maryland.
Thomas said his goal is to build on Craig Field's existing assets while expanding opportunities tied to aviation, workforce development and economic growth.
“I get a chance to actually do something positive for the city, and help Craig Field reach its full potential because it’s always had potential,” Thomas said during an interview with WAKA. “And so, I want to see if I can come in and revitalize that.”
