Steve Huettel has been a reporter since graduating in 1979 from the University of North Carolina (literally on the job at the Fayetteville Observer the Monday after Saturday ceremony). His next stop was Florida, and he landed at the Times at the end of 1998. After a brief stint covering Tampa City Hall, he returned to business reporting with a focus on his favorite subject: air travel. The airline industry survives in a constant state of financial turmoil and cut-throat competition. What's not to like? His spare time is consumed by his two kids, Matthew (12) and Katie (9), their activities and Tar Heel basketball.

Phone: (813) 226-3384

E-mail: huettel@tampabay.com