2025 Airport Business Top 40 Under 40: Tarryn Little, PE

• Hometown: Dunkirk, MD
• Alma Mater: North Carolina State University
• What’s one airport that inspires you? Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport

With more than 16 years of experience in aviation engineering, Tarryn Little has established herself as a trusted leader, technical expert, and mentor within the industry. As Associate Vice President at RS&H, she oversees complex airside and landside projects, blending technical rigor with a collaborative, solutions-driven approach that has earned her the respect of colleagues and clients alike.

Little has played a pivotal role in some of the industry’s most significant projects, including the $750 million Runway 5L-23R replacement at Raleigh-Durham International Airport, where she coordinated a team of more than 100 associates and 12 subconsultant firms. Her leadership has also shaped high-profile projects such as the West Remain Overnight Apron Expansion and Rehabilitation at RDU, new terminal and apron development at Albert J. Ellis Airport, and one of the nation’s first air mobility facilities at Raleigh Executive Jetport. Beyond project delivery, she has advanced sustainable practices, guiding efforts that led to North Carolina’s first-ever Envision Platinum certification for an airport project.

Her impact extends nationally through her role as Chair of the Airport Consultants Council (ACC) Engineering Committee, where she has helped critique and refine FAA guidance to improve aviation standards. She also shares her expertise as a guest lecturer at NC State University, mentoring engineering students and shaping the next generation of aviation professionals.

“I like the idea of designing safe, critical infrastructure for the traveling public,” Little said. “When I describe my job to kids, I tell them: ‘By creating safe surfaces for airplanes to land on, I save thousands of lives a day.’”

Known for her integrity, ambition, and mentorship, Little continues to push the industry forward—through innovative technical solutions, advocacy for sustainable infrastructure, and a commitment to building strong teams across the aviation community.