West Virginia Executive Fall 2024 | Page 105

Dominique N . Ranieri , Esq ., C . M .

Airport Director & CEO , West Virginia International Yeager Airport
KENZIE DYE TRACY A . TOLER PHOTOGRAPHY
Ranieri inside of The Coalfield Jamboree theater in Logan , WV .
Dominique Ranieri , Esq ., C . M ., airport director and CEO of West Virginia International Yeager Airport ( CRW ), has always known what she wanted out of life . She grew up in West Palm Beach , FL , in a closeknit family . Her father , a dedicated police officer with a passion for flying , and her mother , a Delta Air Lines flight attendant who chose to stay home and raise Ranieri and her two sisters , had a profound impact on her upbringing .
“ My mother ’ s decision to be there for us full-time provided a stable and nurturing environment where we could explore our interests and ambitions ,” Ranieri says . “ My parents ’ commitment to both their professions and our family instilled in me the values of hard work , service and dedication .”
From a young age , Ranieri knew she wanted to become an attorney — something she proudly declared in kindergarten .
“ What appealed to me most about this path was the idea of constantly learning new things ,” she says . “ Attorneys are always delving into different areas , solving new problems and expanding their knowledge .”
Graduating from Florida Atlantic
University with a bachelor ’ s degree at 18 alongside her high school diploma was a milestone that posed a challenge . Most law schools weren ’ t ready for students under 21 . To overcome this , she gained additional experience and credentials , which paid off when she was accepted to the Appalachian School of Law in Grundy , VA .
Ranieri ’ s professional journey began at Steptoe & Johnson PLLC in Charleston , WV , where she gained invaluable experience in energy law . The lessons she learned in her first professional job — paying attention to details , understanding complex legal frameworks and navigating the professional world with confidence — influenced her approach to her career and paved the way for future success .
In her current role , Ranieri has the unique opportunity to shape the future of aviation in the region . Her leadership is characterized by her commitment to innovation and her ability to oversee diverse projects that make a tangible impact on the airport , its employees and the surrounding community .
While Ranieri considers her network of family and friends her greatest achievment , she also succeeds in spreading love and support throughout her community . She is an appointed board member for the West Virginia Consolidated Public Retirement Board ; appointed member for the West Virginia Tourism Advisory Council ; Alpha Delta Pi alumni advisor ; vice chair for Spirit of the Valley , a YMCA Initiative ; and member of the Briar Hills Garden Club . Ranieri also serves on the Charleston Convention & Visitors Bureau and Charleston Area Alliance boards .
“ I believe giving back is about more than just donating time or money — it ’ s about using my skills and experiences to make a meaningful impact ,” she says . “ I choose causes where I know I can add value , whether it ’ s through my professional expertise or simply connecting people and resources .”
Ranieri ’ s dedication to her profession , combined with her passion for making a positive impact , ensures she will continue to blaze trails in the aviation industry .
“ The ability to take on significant projects and contribute to meaningful work has been both challenging and rewarding ,” she says . “ I love the sense of purpose and the chance to make a real impact in the place that I ’ ve made my home .” •
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ?
pet :
English Bulldog , Sambuca Marie
color :
Lime Green
snack :
Oreos
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