David S. Fulton
A nationally recognized aviator and leader in the aviation industry, David S. Fulton has devoted his life’s work to improving general aviation airports in Texas and Tennessee. As the first Director of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Aviation Division, and in a similar position at the Tennessee Office of Aeronautics, he has served the aviation industry for over 40 years, helping ensure that the general aviation airport system is safe, economically sound and in good condition for the flying public.
At TxDOT, Fulton led the rebuilding of airports across Texas, providing $1.4 billion in federal and state grant funds for more than 250 locally owned airports, transforming the Texas General Aviation Airport System from one of the worst in the nation to one of the best. As the new airport system took form, he launched innovative matching grant programs to build airport terminal buildings and incentivize communities to fund routine airport maintenance.
A retired U.S. Navy Captain and Naval Aviator, Fulton has received national awards for his service to the aviation industry. His energy, professional credentials and dedication to aviation in Texas and beyond are unmatched among his peers.
Kirk P. Watson
A champion of transportation investment for Austin and the entire state of Texas for more than two decades, Kirk P. Watson has been a bold and passionate voice for mobility. Throughout his decades-long career in public service as Texas Senator, Mayor of Austin, and Chair of the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization Policy Board, Watson has envisioned, strategized, and delivered numerous transportation projects to improve the state’s economy and its citizens’ quality of life.
Watson served as Vice Chair of the Senate Transportation and Homeland Security Committee and became a leader in tackling numerous transportation issues, such as funding, air quality, traffic congestion and safety. As Mayor of Austin, he passed multiple transportation bonds, served as an advocate for public transportation, developed a new international airport, and encouraged environmental stewardship and transportation planning. He created a five-county clean air coalition, supported the construction of SH 130 and I-35, and promoted rail investments.
Watson’s strength lies in his dogged determination and special ability to engage stakeholders, define the issues, and arrive at consensus to deliver transportation solutions for the public.