Women play a critical leadership role within the Sacramento County Department of Airports (SCDA), guiding the operations and future of Sacramento International Airport (SMF), Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC), Mather Airport (MHR) and Franklin Field (F72).

Managing a system of this scale requires strategic vision, collaboration and deep industry expertise.

Director of Airports Cindy Nichol often describes SMF as a city in motion. Each day, more than 5,000 on-site employees work across airlines, concessions, rental car companies, fixed-base operators, public safety and county operations to keep the airport running safely and efficiently. As Sacramento’s primary commercial air hub, SMF has continued to set new records, serving 13.9 million passengers in 2025 alone and experiencing consistent year-over-year growth since 2022. 

Nichol’s passion for aviation began early, growing up in Ethiopia where limited road infrastructure made air travel essential. Her career has spanned more than 35 years, with leadership roles at airports in Boston, San Francisco and Portland before coming to Sacramento. Today, she oversees a team of 373 county employees, working closely with county leadership and the board of supervisors to ensure the resources, infrastructure and strategy are in place to support continued growth.

“An airport is a city in motion. Our responsibility is to build it thoughtfully today so it can serve Sacramento for generations to come.” — Cindy Nichol, Director of Airports

Additionally, Nichol serves as chair of Airports Council International North America, representing more than 210 airports in the U.S. and Canada. In this position, she promotes best practices and advocates for federal policies that strengthen the nation’s aviation system. 

Supporting this vision is a leadership team that includes women in key roles across the SCDA.

Deputy Director of Airport Operations and Public Safety Sheri Thompson-Duarte grew up flying with her father in Alaska and has more than 26 years of experience. “I’m honored to work alongside such a dedicated and professional group of women under Cindy’s leadership,” says Thompson-Duarte, who served in the Air Force as an aircraft mechanic. 

Looking ahead, the Department of Airports is advancing the $1.4 billion SMForward modernization program, which includes a new pedestrian walkway connecting Terminal B to Concourse B, a 5,500-space parking garage, six new airline gates, roadway and ground transportation facilities, and a consolidated rental car facility. Together, these investments are transforming the passenger experience while positioning Sacramento’s airports for long-term success.