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

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 close-knit 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.”