VEST Her Podcast: What If The Fastest Way To Grow Isn't Moving at All?
- Feb 23
- 3 min read
In a professional culture that rewards constant motion, Alexis Higgins built her career differently.
In this episode, Beverly Carmichael sits down with Alexis Higgins, CEO of Tulsa International Airport, to unpack how a 26-year career in one city became a masterclass in influence, trust, and long-term impact.
From a support role to CEO, Alexis proves that deep roots, when paired with visibility, preparation, and meaningful relationships, can generate compound returns.
This conversation aligns with this month’s VEST theme: Building Meaningful Connections over Vast Networks.
A City Within a City
Alexis pulls back the curtain on airport leadership, revealing what most people never see.
Tulsa International Airport operates like a “city within a city,” managing:
Infrastructure and public safety
Tenant relationships and regulatory compliance
Airline negotiations and route strategy
Economic development for the broader region
We explore how airlines choose new routes, why landing service requires patience and precision, and how airports align community storytelling with national network strategy.
Leadership Built on Depth
Inside the organization, Alexis shares how she shaped culture intentionally:
Setting goals where none existed
Normalizing debate to strengthen decision-making
Anchoring tough calls on what’s best for the institution, not individuals, not even cities
Her leadership philosophy is simple but powerful:
“To be clear is to be kind.”
She discusses practicing difficult conversations, building transparent development pathways, and ensuring people are prepared for opportunities before they officially exist.
Navigating Uncertainty in Real Time
We also get candid about today’s job market, layoffs, longer searches, and the emotional toll of uncertainty. Alexis offers practical guidance on:
Staying visible during uncertain times
Building high-value relationships (not just expanding networks)
Asking for precise, actionable help
Focusing on what you can control when the world feels heavy
In an industry where few major airports are led by women, Alexis also reflects on visibility, mentorship, and the responsibility that comes with leadership. Her career challenges the assumption that growth requires leaving. Sometimes, growth means staying and investing deeply.
If you’re hungry for grounded, practical insight on leadership, institutional strategy, culture design, and long-term career growth, this episode is for you.
Guest Bios
Alexis Higgins is the Chief Executive Officer of the Tulsa Airports Improvement Trust, where she leads Tulsa International Airport and Tulsa Riverside Airport, two essential transportation hubs serving millions of passengers each year. With a career built in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Alexis brings a steady, people-centered approach to leading complex operations and navigating change. She is an Accredited Airport Executive, a graduate of the University of Tulsa’s Business School, and serves in national leadership roles with the American Association of Airport Executives and Airports Council International–North America. Known for her thoughtful leadership and long-term vision, Alexis is a strong advocate for developing talent, building resilient teams, and encouraging women to pursue leadership with clarity and confidence. Connect with Alexis on LinkedIn
Beverly K Carmichael is a seasoned executive and board director with more than 25 years of experience leading human resources, legal, and business strategy across hospitality, entertainment, and aviation. She has held C-suite roles at Southwest Airlines, Ticketmaster, Cracker Barrel, and Red Robin, and currently serves on the boards of Pursuit Attractions and Hospitality, Cotton Patch Cafe, and CINTAS. Beverly also serves on the Board of the Tulsa Airports Improvement Trust and works closely with Alexis Higgins. A respected voice in corporate governance and organizational culture, Beverly is a strong advocate for inclusion, equity, and responsible leadership. She is also a VEST Member and Co-Founder of The Anita Hill Scholarship Fund, investing in the next generation of legal leaders. Connect with Beverly on LinkedIn