WASHINGTON - The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has named Jim Spinden as the Federal Security Director (FSD) for Palm Springs (Calif.) International Airport. Since July 2002, Spinden has served as FSD for airports in Idaho Falls and Pocatello, Idaho, and Jackson, Wyoming.
"Jim Spinden has been key to the success of TSA in Idaho and Wyoming, and we are fortunate that he has agreed to bring his talents to Palm Springs," said Ed Gomez, Western Area Director for TSA. "TSA's most valued resource, our screeners, will certainly benefit from his wisdom, leadership and experience."
Prior to joining TSA, Spinden was sheriff of Washington County, Ore., for three terms after serving in the Sheriff's Department for more than 20 years. He was on numerous national committees as well as task forces appointed by the governor and was recognized by his peers as the Oregon Sheriff of the Year in 1996. A retired colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve, Spinden holds a bachelor's degree in the administration of justice from Portland State University and is a graduate of the FBI Academy, the National Sheriff's Institute, the National Institute of Corrections, and the FBI's Law Enforcement Executive Development Course.
Spinden replaces Acting FSD Don Barker, who has resumed his position as TSA's FSD at Eugene (Ore.) Airport.
