Get to Know Commissioner Rick Ruppert

After a 40-year career in executive-level positions at Jet Aviation, The Walt Disney Company, and Ulta Beauty, Rick moved to Naples, Florida to start a fulfilling chapter of community service. Within a few years, Rick joined local organizations, including the Forum Club of Southwest Florida, Harvard Club of Naples, and the Board of Directors of both the Monaco Beach Club Condominium and the Gulf Shore Association of Condominiums.

Driven by his desire to make a difference, Rick was appointed to the NAA Board of Commissioners in 2020 and later elected as Vice Chair in 2021.

Throughout his tenure, Rick has proven to be an integral part of the Board’s mission to set goals and objectives for the Naples Airport Authority and ensure they are achieved. Drawing upon his skills, leadership, and perspective, he has not only provided support to the leadership team at the airport but has also extended his guidance to our seasonal employees and interns.

When he’s not attending board meetings, Rick enjoys swimming and playing tennis throughout the city. Additionally, he cherishes his time with family and frequently travels to Phoenix and Chicago to dote on his children and grandchildren.

About Naples Airport

Naples Airport is ideally located within minutes of downtown Naples, the Gulf of Mexico and I-75, connecting people to the Paradise Coast through an exceptional airport experience. The airport serviced 122,281 annual operations and more than 200,000 passengers last year, while being an engaged, responsive partner to the community. Home to corporate aviation, air charter, car rental, flight schools and critical public services such as fire/rescue, air ambulance services, mosquito control and the Collier County Sheriff’s Aviation Unit. The airport also prides itself on being the hub of emergency staging during natural disasters, like hurricanes.

All funds used for the airport’s operation, maintenance and improvements are generated from activities at the airport or federal and state grants from aviation-related user fees. The airport receives no local tax dollars. The Florida Department of Transportation values the airport’s annual economic impact on the community at more than $781 million.

For more information or to subscribe to email updates from the airport, visit www.FlyNaples.com.