Miami,
05
October
2021
|
16:17 PM
Europe/Amsterdam

Hispanic Heritage Month Heroes: Ralph Cutié

Son of Cuban immigrants is piloting MIA to new heights

After serving as Interim Director of the Miami-Dade Aviation Department (MDAD) from June to September 2021, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava named Ralph Cutié Director and CEO of the 1,432-employee department, responsible for operating Miami International Airport and the County’s four general aviation airports.

Before leading the Department, Ralph served as its Assistant Director for Facilities Management and Engineering, overseeing the largest and most diverse division within the Aviation Department – comprised of more than 440 employees, an annual operating budget of nearly $123 million and a reserve maintenance budget of $30 million.

Ralph is a 30-year County veteran with more than 33 years of professional experience in the planning, organizing, directing, management and maintenance of large-scale facility and capital improvement engineering/construction projects. His experience within County government includes stops with Miami-Dade Transit, the Office of Capital Improvements, and the Internal Services Department.

The son of Cuban immigrants was born and raised in Miami-Dade County, earning a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from Florida International University after graduating from Christopher Columbus High School. In this last week of Hispanic Heritage Month, get to know a little more about the man in the pilot’s seat of America’s busiest airport for international passengers and cargo.

How long have you been at MIA?

Since 2013, which makes eight and a half years.

What is your current role at MIA? 

On Sept 13, I was named Director for Miami-Dade Aviation Department.

What do you like most about your job? 

I love working with great people and establishing relationships.

What are some of your biggest career accomplishments?

During my tenure with the County’s Office of Capital Improvements and Internal Services Department between 2006 and 2012, I collaborated with the County Attorney’s Office and the County’s various capital departments to develop the Standard Construction Contract, which was adopted by the Board of County Commissioners in November 2012 as the standard for all non-Miscellaneous Construction Contract construction projects countywide. 

What makes you most proud about your Cuban heritage?

Cuban-Americans are fighters and survivors.

How does it feel to be recognized during Hispanic Heritage Month? 

I am very proud to be recognized during Hispanic Heritage Month.