FEDC is extremely pleased to announce that Gary C. Kelly, CEO of Southwest Airlines will feature as the keynote speaker for the Leadership Dinner on Thursday evening, October 14th.
Under Gary’s leadership, Southwest has grown to become the nation’s largest airline in terms of originating domestic passengers carried and is a mainstay on Fortune magazine’s list of the most admired companies in the world, ranking 14th in 2021.
Gary is a 35-year Southwest veteran who began his career at Southwest Airlines as Controller, moving up to Chief Financial Officer and Vice President Finance, then Executive Vice President and CFO, before being promoted to CEO and Vice Chairman in July 2004. Gary assumed the roles of Chairman and President in 2008. In January 2017, Gary relinquished the title of President. Prior to joining Southwest Airlines in 1986, Gary was a CPA for Arthur Young and Company in Dallas and Controller for Systems Center, Inc.
Gary is a lifelong Texan and received a B.B.A. in Accounting from the University of Texas at Austin.
It's Time to Apply
All awards are now open for applications. Please remember to submit your nominations by August 16th.
Best in Show: (NEW) The Melissa Medley Creativity Award
In honor of our dear friend, Melissa Medley, who inspired so many of us to promote the state with enthusiasm and grace, this award recognizes a marketing activity or campaign that was unpredictable, effective, and meaningful.
This award will be chosen from all the marketing submissions as a “best in show” award.
Act today!
Now's the time to register for the 2021 conference.
Exhibitors, for the first time in a long time you can take advantage of in-person marketing and networking opportunities. The state's top economic development leaders are ready to see what you have to offer.
We can assist with an unmanned booth if you are under travel restrictions.
You will also receive exposure via the conference app.
