Meet the Dallas 500: Cedric Rockamore, American Airlines

When Cedric Rockamore trains others around him about DEI, he always starts with why. He joined American Airlines in 2010 as director of ramp services for US Airways at Philadelphia International Airport. After the company merged with American Airlines, he was named managing director of hub operations at Washington Reagan. In 2017, he moved to North Texas to become a vice president at American, and four years later was named the airline’s chief diversity officer and VP of global people operations. Last year, the company celebrated its eighth consecutive year of receiving the highest score on the Disability Equality Index. Rockamore says his best career advice is to “take risks and be comfortable with being uncomfortable; you never know where it might lead if you don’t take the risk and don’t try.”

Training

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (MBA, BS)

Place of birth

Little Rock, Arkansas

First job

“My first job was lawn care at an HBCU. That job taught me to respect hard work and appreciate manual labor. Even though I didn’t enjoy it at the time, I knew I had to push through and make a positive, lasting impression.”

Most difficult challenge

“I was involved in two airline mergers and accompanied the teams during the transition phase.”

Hobby/Passion

“I am a ‘self-proclaimed’ cigar lover.”

First ride

“A 1972 Buick Skylark. I wish I still had that car.”

Aim of the election

“Everywhere in South America. My favorite city in Europe is Rome.”

Dinner

“I would have dinner with Mark Cuban and Cynt Marshall. They seem to be rooted in their work and have a strong sense of discipline that I respect very much.”

Industry change

“I want students to learn about aviation as early as high school to gain more insight into the field. Many don’t even know that a career in aviation is possible for them. By exposing youth early on, they can learn about the many career opportunities in this industry.”

Decisive moment

“My mother suffered a massive stroke that left her severely disabled. My mother was my confidante; I had to learn to draw on the basic things she had taught me and find strength in our new reality.”

Things to know

“I went to two boot camps – one in the Army and the other in the Navy.”

Must read

“An autobiography of Abraham Lincoln, because I believe that he truly embodied the complexity of human nature through the way he dealt with his hardships and tribulations.”

Local food

“My favorite restaurant is Hillstone in Preston Center. My favorite item on the menu is the Hawaiian ribeye with a fully loaded baked potato.”

Alternative reality

“If I weren’t doing my current job, I would be teaching because it’s the best way to learn and disseminate knowledge. Teaching also allows you to face challenges and learn about different approaches to processing information.”

Future forecast

“I look forward to improving access, awareness and opportunities for a career in aviation for all.”