Mary Leftridge Byrd
Federal Security Director, State of Georgia,
Transportation Security Administration
U.S. Department of Homeland Security
In April 2009, Mary V. Leftridge Byrd, began service as the Federal Security Director (FSD), responsible for Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport Atlanta, GA, the world’s busiest, airport. In addition, she has responsibility for all federalized airports across the state of Georgia. She leads a workforce of 1,700 staff, emphasizing the value of diversity, professionalism, partnership, continuous improvement and building sustainable opportunities for workforce development and promotional opportunities.
Recognized for her transformative leadership , most recently FSD Leftridge Byrd led her team through an unprecedented federal government shutdown. She ensured all passenger and baggage security screening operations, compliance, canine and covert operations, administrative obligations, and standards were met with no degradation of the mission of counterterrorism and aviation security. Along the way, Leftridge Byrd has won the respect and admiration of her peers, colleagues and workforce. “She helped us with transportation, food and other necessities during the government furlough,” said one transportation security officer. “She worked in the screening operation with us every day.
Over her career in public safety, Director Leftridge Byrd has established a reputation of accomplishment through partnerships with aviation industry leaders and related public safety organizations. With her talented and committed teams, Director Leftridge Byrd led her team to TSA Atlanta being honored by receiving the TSA Airport of the Year award.
Director Leftridge Byrd has successfully led the organization in opening two additional passenger screening checkpoints and an inline checked baggage screening system in support of the airport’s $1.5 billion international terminal. In 2019, she led the achievement to screen a record-setting 104,000 departing passengers on Super Bowl Monday - with no security incidents. The Director attributes this unparalleled achievement to the hard work of her frontline workforce and leadership team members.