Delta Chi - Knight Errant Spring 2022

24 KNIGHT ERRANT | THE DELTA CHI EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION
Captain of Industry
John Mica
The Honorable John L. Mica, Florida ‘67 is considered one of the most knowledgeable leaders and experts in
Transportation and Infrastructure. In the U.S. House of Representatives, his leadership over two decades helped
shape American transportation policy and guided nearly every successful major infrastructure legislative initiative.
In addition to public service, Mica enjoyed a successful business career that spanned nearly two decades active
in real estate, communications, and international trade.
Reflections on his rise to power and influence, along with his pursuit of relevance in retirement is a story
worth exploration.
In high school Mica was an active member of the
Republican party, which carried over into his college
days at the University of Florida. In 1959, he became
involved with Richard Nixon’s campaign. During those
formative years at UF, he became very involved with
the Florida Blue Key organization and led several
educational initiatives in the surrounding communities.
He also joined the Delta Chi Fraternity. After college,
he pursued his passion for public service, working with
several Republican campaigns and in administrative
roles within those offices.
“I quickly discovered that I would need an additional
source of income outside of public service. I got into real
estate development and stayed with that my entire life.
I’m proud to have led the second largest condo conversion
in Washington, D.C. Additionally, I became involved with
International trade and cellular/ satellite communications
working closely with friends at Harris Corporation. I met
my wife, Pat, during those years and knew immediately
she was the one for me. We were married within six
months and have been together for 50 years.”
“I would route myself through Washington whenever
possible to gain visibility. In 1976 I secured a seat in
the Florida legislature State House of Representatives.
In 1980 I worked with Paula Hawkins’ bid to the U.S.
Senate and went on to work in her office as Chief of
Staff between 1980-1985.”
Finally, in 1992 Mica won his seat in the U.S. House
of Representatives, a position he would hold for 24 years
until 2017. While serving in the U.S. House of Representatives,
Brother Mica hosted Delta Chi members at
the Capitol several times. He also worked closely
with and formed friendships with other Brothers
serving our country, including Senator Richard
Shelby, Alabama ‘57: “I helped set up Shelby’s
office in the Capitol.”
He was selected as the Chairman and Ranking Member
of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.
Additionally, he chaired five major subcommittees
during his tenure, including Aviation, Civil Service,
Government Operations, Transportation Oversight, and
Criminal Justice & Drug Policy.
As leader of the Aviation Subcommittee following 9/11,
he was instrumental in bringing the American aviation
industry back from some of its most difficult days. He
was the primary author of America’s Transportation
Security Act and successfully spearheaded the construction
of the US Capitol Visitors Center. He was honored by
having his portrait be displayed in the US Capitol Complex.
His support of major infrastructure projects has
had a significant impact on American communities from
coast to coast. His P3 privatization initiatives have
helped launch and finance dozens of major infrastructure
projects in Florida and across the United States.