What makes George Bush Intercontinental Airport an attractive option for layovers?

Our goal is for each passenger to enjoy the time spent at our airport. We provide an exciting assortment of amenities, including concessions that are the first of a kind in the world or the United States. We maintain a renowned permanent art collection, and on the technology side, we are preparing to offer free WiFi in the terminals.

IAH was designated the first model airport in the country by the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security. Our technologies — like the Global Entry program — have helped make us a leader in managing international travelers. Our employees, including special services representatives who collectively speak 18 languages, promote a customer-friendly environment. Customer satisfaction surveys help us stay in tune with travelers, and the Houston climate allows us to maintain one of the best on-time records in the country.

Houston’s two main airports, IAH, which is a Continental Airlines hub, and William P. Hobby (HOU), which is a Southwest Airlines hub, both offer unique traveling options to the public.

How do you incorporate the culture of Houston and Texas into the airport?

As a gateway to Houston, our goal is to provide an airport experience that will leave travelers with a favorable impression. The airport changes preconceived notions about Texas by combining just the right amount of hometown flavor with international flair.

We work closely with the community and have developed strong relationships with the Convention and Visitors Bureau, helping spread the word that Houston is both a business and leisure destination.

What are future plans for the airport?

We have added at least five new international destinations, including premier carriers Singapore Airlines, Emirates and Qatar Airways. Alaska Airlines now offers service. Continental has introduced new international and domestic destinations and has joined the Star Alliance.

We are doing lots of renovating and remodeling in Terminal B and in our International Terminal D, while also connecting the automated people-mover train system to all terminals. An environmental impact study is currently under review for additional runways, since we have plenty of room for growth.

Our green initiatives include $11 million for a hybrid fleet, clean-burning diesel buses and reduced airport emissions. Our Fresh Air Cargo operations will give producers new options and allow us to bring faster, fresher produce to the central region of the country.

Tell us about your career in the industry.

As interim director of aviation, I am responsible for the overall management of Houston’s airports. I joined HAS in 2000 and have overseen more than $3 billion-worth of construction and development projects. Prior to that, I served in the United States Army for more than 27 years.