Harnett County is excited to announce the selection of Bradley Abate as the new Director of Harnett Regional Jetport.

Abate has been an integral part of the Harnett County Sheriff’s Office for over 16 years, serving in a variety of roles. In addition, his involvement on multiple external boards has allowed him to showcase exceptional operational expertise, outstanding problem-solving abilities, and strong leadership skills.

“I am excited for this opportunity to lead the Jetport and continue to serve the citizens of Harnett County. I am very appreciative to County Manager Trout for entrusting me with the Harnett County Jetport and I look forward to working alongside our dedicated staff at the Jetport as well as our Economic Development Department to continue to grow our county,” said Abate.

As Jetport Director, Abate will be responsible for directing the County’s airport operations, monitoring and implementing safety procedures, serving as the liaison for airport projects and grant funding opportunities, promoting economic development and business expansion at the airport, and ensuring Harnett Regional Jetport adheres to county, state, and federal guidelines.

“We are excited to welcome Bradley as our new Jetport Director,” said Brent Trout, Harnett County Manager. “He has demonstrated the leadership qualities that we seek in a candidate to the guide the Jetports operations and development. Bradley has a clear understanding of the vision the Board of Commissioners and I have for the Jetport’s future, and I look forward to seeing all that he will accomplish in this role.”

Abate earned a Law Enforcement General Instructor Training Certificate from Wake Technical Community College, a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Campbell University, and a Basic Law Enforcement Training Certificate from Central Carolina Community College.

Abate began his new role on February 17, 2025.

Harnett County is one of the fastest growing counties in North Carolina with approximately 142,000 residents. Harnett's tagline of "Strong Roots, New Growth," describes a county in transition, one that values its rural agricultural heritage while also embracing new growth and industry. Harnett County is optimally located just between North Carolina's capital city of Raleigh and the internationally recognized Research Triangle Park to the north, and the nation's largest military installation in Fort Liberty to the south.