The Southwest Michigan Regional Airport Authority Board announced during its August 20 meeting that Bruce Allee will serve as Interim Director of the Southwest Michigan Regional Airport.
Allee has been part of the airport team since October 2024, serving as Office Manager and a member of the winter snow removal crew. As a familiar face to airport staff, tenants and community, he brings firsthand knowledge of the airport’s daily operations to the role.
“Bruce has already worked closely with the airport team and is a familiar face to our staff, tenants and community,” said Airport Authority Board President Brandon Cerecke. “We are confident in his ability to lead us during this transition as we begin our search for the airport’s next director. His experience, steady leadership and commitment to our Southwest Michigan Regional Airport will serve the Authority and our community well, and we are sure he will do great work in this role.”
Allee brings experience in aviation operations, facilities management and public safety. He previously worked as a ramp agent at Corporate Wings FBO at South Bend International Airport, assisting aircraft, flight crews and passengers while supporting fueling and airfield operations. He has also managed maintenance operations for multiple properties and spent more than 30 years in law enforcement, including service with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department and Butler University.
As Interim Director, Allee will focus on supporting airport staff, strengthening communication with tenants, pilots, vendors and customers, promoting the airport as a place to do business and continuing community outreach. He will also build on recent airport improvements while supporting future growth opportunities at the airport to best serve the community.
Allee also plans to explore ways to strengthen current and future revenue opportunities, support the continued development of a potential flight school and help create an environment that encourages investment in the airport.
The Airport Authority will begin its search for a permanent director in the coming months. In the meantime, the Authority remains committed to providing strong leadership and maintaining the airport’s role as an important transportation, economic and emergency-response resource for Southwest Michigan. As the airport continues engaging community members, residents are encouraged to reach out with questions or feedback by emailing media@swmiairport.com.
