Cynthia Bennem is a results-driven and mission-focused leader with over 21 years of experience supporting the TSA’s Screening Partnership Program (SPP). As the VP of Xcelerate Solutions’ Homeland Defense Group, she brings a proven track record of successfully managing transitions and optimizing airport security in dynamic and high-stakes environments nationwide, along with specialized expertise that few in the industry can rival.
Cynthia is recognized for her ability to seamlessly integrate government and contractor airport operations while maintaining the highest standards of security, compliance, and stakeholder collaboration, with notable successes at Rochester (ROC), Kansas City (MCI), Atlantic City (ACY), Key West (EYW), Portsmouth (PSM), Tupelo (TUP), and eight airports across Montana.
A distinguished member of the original SPP pilot team at ROC, Cynthia has advanced through progressively senior roles, including Supervisory Transportation Security Officer, Senior Supervisor, Deputy Project Manager, and Project Manager. Her leadership has been instrumental in driving performance excellence and operational integrity at every level.
Cynthia is highly adept at navigating complex partnerships between federal agencies, commercial stakeholders, and subcontractor teams. Her ability to build consensus and lead cross-functional teams makes her an invaluable asset to both Xcelerate and the broader aviation security community. In 2024, WashingtonExec named Cynthia a “National Security Executive to Watch.”