Jim Durwin

Title
Adjunct Assistant Professor
Email
Department
Department of Aeronautics
College
College of Aviation

A seasoned aviation professional with more than two decades of experience in airport operations and public service, James E. Durwin currently serves as the Aviation Operations Administrator for the Florida Department of Transportation. In this role, he oversees a wide range of statewide programs, including Public and Private Airport Site Approval and Licensing, Aviation Disaster Preparedness and Response, Airspace Protection, Airport Security Plan Review and the Florida Aviation Database system.

Before joining FDOT, Jim spent over 23 years at Tallahassee International Airport (TLH), where he held multiple leadership roles, including Deputy Director of Aviation. There, he was responsible for airport operations, public safety, security, facility and airfield maintenance, and emergency preparedness.

Jim is a veteran of the United States Air Force Reserve, retiring in 2013 after more than 20 years of combined active duty, Air National Guard and Reserve service.

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Professional Aeronautics with a minor in Aviation Safety and a dual-specialization Master’s degree in Management and Aviation Safety from Embry-Riddle. He is also a Certified Member of the American Association of Airport Executives and actively participates in several professional industry associations and committees.

Originally from New Hampshire, Jim now resides in Thomasville, Georgia. Outside of work, he enjoys camping, hiking and fishing.

  • M.A.S. - Master of Aeronautical Science in Aviation Aerospace Management and Aviation Aerospace Safety, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
  • B.S. - Bachelor of Science in Professional Aeronautics: Aviation Safety, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Certified Member (C.M.), American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE)