The award recognizes an airport leader who demonstrates courage, innovation, and measurable impact on their airport, community, and the aviation industry. Barrett was nominated by his peers for his transformational leadership at PSP, marked by strategic growth, operational transparency, and a people-first culture.
Since joining PSP in 2020, Barrett has overseen a period of historic growth. He was named Executive Director in 2022 after quickly rising through key leadership roles, including Deputy Director of Operations and Maintenance, Assistant Airport Director, and Interim Director. During his tenure, he has secured more than $6 million in FAA grants to modernize PSP’s outbound baggage system and led major infrastructure projects, including a $36 million TSA and ticket lobby expansion and an $11 million passenger loading bridge replacement.
Barrett also launched ProgressPSP.com, a public-facing website that tracks airport capital projects and promotes fiscal transparency. He issued PSP’s first-ever economic impact study, revealing that last year the airport generated over $2.5 billion in economic activity, supported more than 18,000 jobs, and produced $382 million in tax revenue — most of which stays within local communities. These efforts reflect a strong commitment to accountability and community engagement.
Beyond capital investment, Barrett nearly doubled PSP’s staff during a period of rapid growth and has fostered a values-based culture where employees feel supported and empowered. He has also advanced inclusive hiring through partnerships that create meaningful job opportunities for adults with disabilities.
“Harry’s ability to balance warmth with clarity, friendship with leadership, and bold vision with everyday execution has created a rare kind of workplace: one where people feel proud to serve,” one nomination read.
Another nomination stated, “His innovative approach to airport management, paired with a commitment to transparency and community partnerships, has positioned PSP as not just an airport, but a regional engine for opportunity and economic growth.”
A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Barrett holds advanced degrees in aeronautics, public administration, and global management. He also serves in national leadership roles with AAAE, including chairing the Inclusion in Aviation Committee and serving as a national AAAE Director.
The SWAAAE Airport Executive of the Year Award is presented annually to one leader across the Southwest Chapter region — which includes Arizona, Nevada, California, Hawaii, the American Trust Territories in the South Pacific, the Baja Norte/Sur–Sonora regions of Mexico, and the countries of Australia and New Zealand — for excellence, impact, and integrity in the aviation profession.
