Miami,
23
March
2022
|
15:17 PM
Europe/Amsterdam

Women’s History Month: Meet Kemisha Sherrell from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

With passenger numbers reaching an all-time high recently, it may seem that Miami International Airport’s operations are all about welcoming vacationers to our tropical paradise. But beyond the terminal is just as busy, with thousands of tons of fresh products, flowers, pharmaceuticals, and even industrial machinery arriving and departing daily. MIA’s cargo hub is the busiest in the U.S. for international freight, and this week, we’re getting to know one of the women in charge of this record-breaking gateway.

·                     Tell us a little about your role at MIA. 

I currently serve as the Assistant Port Director of Trade Operations for U.S. Customs and Border Protection at MIA. In this role, I am responsible for both inbound and outbound operations in the air cargo, express cargo, and postal mail environments for trade enforcement, facilitation of legitimate trade, and the identification of illegal drugs and commercial fraud.  Further, I invest in strong partnerships with the trade community and private industry for consumer safety, trade facilitation, and the implementation of CBP regulations.

·                     What’s your favorite part about working at MIA? 

Without a doubt, working with the wonderful and unique team at MIA. From my staff and colleagues within CBP to the stakeholders and partners, MIA has always been forward-leaning and innovative. It is an honor to work alongside such a great team.

·                     What do you enjoy doing during your free time? 

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends. More than ever, the last couple of years has taught us that life is precious. I really take that to heart, which is why I try to take time when I can to spend meaningful moments with loved ones.

·                     What’s one piece of advice that’s really stuck with you? 

There have been so many good pieces of advice I have been given over the years, but one thing that sticks out is to not place self-imposed limitations in my thinking. The moment you can begin to think outside that box is the moment you become innovative and creative. That will create a better, more productive working environment for your staff, your colleagues, and the organization – a place that people want to be a part of.

·                     What would you tell your past self? 

Believe it or not, I would tell my past self to give me a break!  Seriously, I have always been so hard on myself, always pushing and pushing to do more. Striving to do better, to be better. I still do that today, but I’ve learned to accept that there will be failures and pitfalls at times. That’s life. We learn. We grow. We pick ourselves up and get ready for the next challenge. We got this!

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To request materials in an accessible format, Sign Language Interpreters, CART services and/or any accommodation to participate in any Miami-Dade Aviation Department (MDAD) public meetings and events please email the ADA Office at ADAcoordinator@miami-airport.com or call the office at 305-876-7747 five days in advance to initiate your request. Persons who are deaf or hard of hearing may also call 711 (Florida Relay Service).