Kim J. Crafton leads marketing and air service development at Columbia Metropolitan Airport, working to expand the region’s aviation connectivity and promote local flight options. In the male-dominated aviation industry, Crafton has found community among fellow female airport executives across the country who often serve as the only women on their leadership teams. These connections have grown into professional relationships built on mutual support.
Crafton mentors emerging women leaders by providing access to key professional spaces. She invites them to meetings, networking events and presentations, creating opportunities for exposure that can lead to internships, volunteer positions or career advancement.
“I measure success by the joy I feel driving into the airport every day getting to do what I love to do and what I am uniquely made to do,” Crafton said. Community feedback on marketing campaigns, increased local passenger traffic and the growth of air service routes she has helped secure all reflect her team’s ongoing achievements at the airport.
