Jett Harris of Fort Smith

Senior Project Manager at Harris United

Jett Harris, Fort Smith, is a Senior Project Manager with Harris United, a contractor company that delivers full-service solutions. Over the years, he has managed and completed construction contracts totaling more than $1.5 billion. He is part of the fourth generation of his family working in the construction sector and has also pursued formal education in the field. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Management from Oklahoma State University, which provided the foundation for his professional path.

Jett’s Role as Senior Project Manager

As Senior Project Manager at Harris United, Jett Harris of Arkansas is responsible for both new builds and renovation projects. His involvement begins early, often during the bidding process, where he works to help secure contracts. Once a project is awarded, he creates a schedule with clear milestones and completion targets to ensure timely delivery.

Maintaining the budget while solving challenges as they arise is a significant part of his role. He collaborates closely with the superintendent to make sure equipment, materials, and crew are ready at the right time. If issues occur, he addresses them directly to keep progress moving forward. His attention to planning and proactive approach ensures that all aspects of the project are organized and completed as scheduled.

Harris keeps track of progress by reviewing daily reports and regularly visiting the job site. These visits allow him to see construction developments first-hand and to check whether staff or subcontractors require support. He often manages several projects at once, balancing the responsibilities of multiple sites while ensuring each remains on track.

His duties also include handling supplies needed on-site, ranging from office items to signage and security equipment. In many cases, he oversees ordering, delivery, inspections, and storage of materials, tailoring his role to the needs of each project.

Weekly meetings are another essential part of his management. Together with the superintendent, he leads discussions with tradespeople and specialty contractors. These meetings provide updates, outline progress, and identify challenges that may affect upcoming work.

His effectiveness as a Senior Project Manager comes from his ability to guide teams, communicate clearly, and build trust with owners, subcontractors, and suppliers. By keeping all stakeholders informed, he ensures smooth project operations. His work has been recognized through awards, including the “Best Closer” recognition from Love’s Travel Stops for completing projects on schedule.

A Passion for Flying

Beyond construction, he has dedicated time to aviation. Harris earned his pilot license in 2006 and holds an instrument rating for twin-engine aircraft. With over 2,500 flight hours, his flying experience surpasses the standard required by many commercial airlines, which typically expect 1,500 hours.

Earning his license required private pilot training, ground school, a written exam, and a flight test. He went further by earning an instrument rating, which allows him to operate in low-visibility conditions or through clouds. He also trained for and earned a multi-engine rating, which focuses on the specific requirements for flying aircraft with more than one engine.

Over time, he has owned between eight and ten airplanes and has restored several older aircraft, reflecting both his passion for aviation and his technical interest in maintaining planes.

Jett’s Volunteer Work

He has also invested significant time in volunteer efforts. He has given thousands of hours working with youth, people experiencing homelessness, and juveniles in detention. For two years, he served as a volunteer Chaplain at Sebastian County Jail, providing support to those in need. Additionally, he served as a board member for Fort Smith Christian School for two years, contributing to its mission and growth.

His volunteer work has also taken him abroad. Harris has traveled to Africa, with a particular focus on Nigeria, where he has been involved in building water wells and supporting local orphanages. His service reflects a strong commitment to helping communities both locally and internationally.

A Match Made on the School Bus

His family story began early in life. On his very first day of kindergarten, he met the woman who would later become his wife. Their relationship blossomed from that moment, and they have now shared 33 years. They have built a family with four children and are also grandparents to two grandchildren.

Jett’s Hobbies and Interests

Outside of work and volunteer service, he enjoys personal hobbies that connect him with both history and leisure. Harris has a strong interest in classic muscle cars and 1960s Honda motorcycles. That period was transformative for the motorcycle industry, as Honda became known for producing dependable and easy-to-ride bikes. The company also introduced essential innovations, including overhead cam engines, electric starters, and improved fuel efficiency.

Honda motorcycles also gained recognition in racing circuits worldwide, establishing their reputation for performance and engineering. Models from the 1960s, including the Honda Dream, CB160, and CL72 Scrambler, remain iconic for their design, chrome details, and reliability. Collectors and enthusiasts value them highly, and he counts himself among those who appreciate their history and craftsmanship.

Fishing is another activity he enjoys, with a particular preference for fly fishing. This interest provides him with opportunities to relax and connect with nature whenever time allows.

Jett Harris has built a career that combines leadership in construction, a deep interest in aviation, dedication to volunteer work, and personal passions ranging from vehicles to outdoor activities. He has overseen more than $1.5 billion in construction projects, earned recognition for his ability to deliver results, and committed countless hours to service in his community and abroad. Alongside his professional success, he values family and the personal connections that have shaped his life. Harris continues to approach work, service, and hobbies with steady commitment and balance.