Sacramento County Department of Airports Names Harry Barrett, Jr. as Assistant Director

Sacramento, CA – The Sacramento County Department of Airports (SCDA) announced the hiring of Harry Barrett, Jr. AAE as Assistant Director of Airports, effective May 26, 2026.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Harry Barrett, Jr. to our leadership team,” said Director of Airports for Sacramento County, Cindy Nichol. “Harry brings an impressive track record and a thoughtful approach to airport leadership that aligns closely with where we’re headed. As we continue to invest in our facilities, grow air service, strengthen community connections, and develop our workforce for the future, Harry will play a key role in driving that momentum. We’re excited to welcome him to the team and look forward to what’s ahead.”

Before joining SCDA, Barrett, Jr. served as Executive Director of Aviation at Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), a position he held for four years.

Barrett, Jr., was selected for this position following an exceptionally competitive process. Reporting directly to the Director of Airports, Cindy Nichol, Barrett, Jr. will play a key leadership role in driving SCDA’s vision for serving airport customers and the community and ensuring the continued excellence of all four airports.

“I’m excited by the opportunity to work alongside the team to build on that strong foundation and help guide the continued growth of the region’s airports serving California’s capital region," Barrett, Jr. said. "I look forward to supporting SCDA’s capital development program, strengthening airline and community partnerships, and continuing to enhance the passenger experience across the airport system.”

His exemplary track record and leadership within the aviation industry make him uniquely qualified for this role. Barrett, Jr. has led numerous groundbreaking initiatives at PSP, including:

· $34 million ticketing lobby expansion

· Taxiway expansion project

· $93 million baggage claim systems optimization program

· Modernization plan for PSP, which anticipates $2.8 billion in facility improvements

Barrett, Jr.’s earlier experience included serving as Airport Manager at Renton Municipal Airport in King County, Washington, Aircraft Rescue Firefighter at Bellingham International Airport, and Landside Operations Supervisor at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.