Gordon named to Florida Business Observer’s 40 Under 40

Aviation’s Senior Project Manager David Gordon, PE, was recently recognized on Business Observer’s Top 40 Under 40 list. Based in Garver’s Tampa office, Gordon joins a class of professionals whose leadership and accomplishments are making waves across Florida’s Gulf Coast.  

Gordon began his aviation career with a cold call and an offer to work as an unpaid intern at the Gainesville Regional Airport while studying at the University of Florida. Through this opportunity, he gained exposure to airport operations, maintenance, construction, security, and management, leading to a paid position on the airport’s maintenance team. This versality and willingness to help where needed has remained a defining part of his career.

As one of Garver’s earliest Florida employees, Gordon has continued his ground-up approach in expanding the firm’s markets through ambition, collaboration, and sharp focus on what comes next.  

According to Aviation Operations Manager Adam White, Gordon’s work is nothing short of remarkable. “David has always had a drive to make things better, whether that’s a project, team, or opportunity for someone else,” White said. “I’m incredibly proud of what he has accomplished and, more importantly, the way he accomplished it. David elevates those around him, which I see as one of his best qualities as a leader.”

His leadership has been especially visible in Tampa, where he heads Garver’s Aviation Design Center. What started as a small group of six has turned into a team of sixteen; and, in only two short years, the group’s revenue is expected to more than double by the end of 2026. Gordon played a key role in establishing Garver’s presence at Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport, successfully leading the firm’s first project at the airport as project manager for a service road safety enhancement initiative.

And his work didn’t stop there. His Tampa group has expanded its reach far beyond the Sunshine State, contributing to major aviation efforts nationwide, including taking on high-profile projects like the $4 billion new Terminal F at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport—one of Garver’s largest contracts in its over 100-year history.

But for Gordon, working in aviation has been more than a profession. “I’ve been fortunate to build a career doing something I genuinely love, surrounded by incredibly talented people,” Gordon said. “What matters to me is knowing the work I do has a positive impact on communities across my home state. I’m honored to be recognized as part of Florida Business Observer’s 40 Under 40.”

Alongside career achievements, Gordon is passionate about developing the next generation of industry leaders in the state. He supports the development of aviation professionals through the Florida Airports Council Education Committee and is active in university recruitment efforts to introduce careers in aviation to aspiring engineers.

Business Observer’s 40 Under 40 celebrates Gordon’s journey from eager airport intern to respected aviation engineering leader. This recognition empowers professionals who are making a difference today while helping Florida’s tomorrow—and David Gordon is doing exactly that.