Senior Project Manager at Harris United
Jett Harris, Fort Smith, is a Senior Project Manager with Harris United, a contractor company that provides full-service construction work. Over the course of his career, he has been responsible for more than $1.5 billion in construction contracts. As a fourth-generation member of his family in the industry, he has carried forward a tradition built over decades while also making his own mark. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Management from Oklahoma State University, giving him both the technical knowledge and professional preparation to guide major projects.
In his role, he manages projects from the bidding stage through completion. Jett Harris of Arkansas contributes to securing contracts, then develops schedules with specific milestones and deadlines. He keeps budgets on track and takes a proactive approach to problem-solving. By working closely with the superintendent, he ensures that crews, materials, and equipment are in place and ready for use at the right time. When challenges come up, he addresses them directly to avoid delays and maintain progress.
Harris keeps a strong connection to the work by reviewing daily reports and making site visits. These visits provide him with a firsthand perspective on how projects are progressing and whether staff or subcontractors require support. Often responsible for several projects at once, he balances his time carefully to meet each responsibility. His work also includes procuring supplies for jobsites, from construction materials to signage, office needs, and security equipment. Depending on the project's scope, he may also oversee the ordering, delivery, inspection, and storage of materials. He also leads weekly meetings with contractors and tradespeople, ensuring that progress is reviewed and the next steps are clearly understood.
His leadership style emphasizes communication, reliability, and teamwork, which has earned him the trust of owners, subcontractors, and suppliers. By keeping every stakeholder informed, he ensures smooth operations. His strong record of delivering results earned him the “Best Closer” award from Love’s Travel Stops for completing projects on schedule.
Outside of construction, he has built experience in aviation. Since earning his pilot license in 2006, he has logged more than 2,500 flight hours. Harris holds an instrument rating for twin-engine aircraft and has owned several airplanes, including restored models. Flying remains a significant interest in his life.
He has also given countless hours to volunteer service. He has worked with youth, supported the homeless, and spent time serving in a juvenile jail. For two years, he volunteered as a chaplain at Sebastian County Jail, and for another two years, he served as a board member at Fort Smith Christian School. His work has extended internationally, where he has helped build water wells and supported orphanages in Nigeria.
On a personal note, he met his wife on the school bus during his very first day of kindergarten. They have been together for 33 years, raising four children and enjoying life with two grandchildren. In his free time, he has a passion for classic muscle cars, restoring 1960s Honda motorcycles, and fishing, particularly fly fishing.
The professional accomplishments, volunteer work, and personal life of Jett Harris demonstrate a steadfast commitment to his career, family, and community.
