2025 Airport Business Top 40 Under 40: Lance Lamkin, A.A.E.

• Hometown: Mustang, Oklahoma
• Alma Mater: University of Oklahoma 
•  How many years have you been in aviation? 15
• What’s one airport that inspires you? Orlando

At just 33, Lance Lamkin has transformed Max Westheimer Airport into a model for growth, community engagement, and aviation education. Since becoming airport director in 2018, he has secured more than $70 million in infrastructure funding, leading projects that include a $5.6 million parallel taxiway reconstruction, a new $15.6 million air traffic control tower now under construction, and a $17 million terminal building designed to enhance passenger and tenant experiences. His ability to align funding strategies, stakeholders, and long-term planning has redefined the airport’s trajectory.

Beyond his project portfolio, Lamkin has emerged as a national voice in aviation advocacy and education. He serves as President of the South Central Chapter of AAAE, Vice Chair of AAAE’s Academic Relations Committee, and has contributed to the development of the General Aviation ACE program. His leadership has also earned industry recognition, including the SCCAAAE General Aviation Professional Award, multiple AAAE Leadership Awards, and the OAOA Airport Manager of the Year Award.

Lamkin pairs his executive responsibilities with a passion for developing future professionals. As an adjunct professor at the University of Oklahoma’s School of Aviation, he teaches, mentors, and advises students while coordinating internships. He credits early influences and mentors like Walt Strong, who instilled in him the value of high standards, humor, and support. “One of my favorite lessons was, ‘constant exposure leads to some form of contamination,’” Lamkin recalled. “It reminded me that the habits of those around you matter — and it pushed me to lead by example.”