Title: Chief Operations Officer and Managing Deputy Commissioner
Company: Chicago Department of Aviation
Location: Chicago, Illinois, United States
Rob Diaz, chief operations officer and managing deputy commissioner at the Chicago Department of Aviation, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Executives for dedication, achievements and leadership in operations, military service, government and aviation.
Mr. Diaz has established an esteemed career in both the military and aviation sectors, demonstrating expertise in operations, military strategy, government affairs, and aviation management. As the chief operations officer and managing deputy commissioner for O’Hare and Midway International Airports under the City of Chicago’s Department of Aviation since 2022, he oversees six critical sections, including terminal operations, landside operations, vehicle services, airfield operations, and ramp operations. Mr. Diaz’s leadership has been instrumental in the ongoing “O’Hare 21” project, an ambitious $8.5 billion renovation aimed at expanding terminal capacity and enhancing airport facilities.
Prior to his current position at the aforementioned department, Mr. Diaz found success as the deputy commissioner of landside operations and vehicle services from 2020 to 2023. In this capacity, he was responsible for overseeing the efficient movement of vehicles and passengers within the airport premises. He previously worked as the director of landside operations in 2019, where he managed various aspects of ground transportation and logistics. Mr. Diaz’s career with the Chicago Department of Aviation began in 2015 as the assistant commissioner of terminal operations, a role he held until 2019.
Mr. Diaz laid the foundation for his exceptional endeavors through his extensive service in the U.S. Marine Corps. He initially enlisted in the military in 2003 as a supply administration private first class and advanced through the ranks to become a gunnery sergeant by 2020. He then served as a first sergeant for different units from 2020 to 2024 before achieving the prestigious rank of command sergeant major in 2024. Currently, Mr. Diaz continues to make an impact as the command senior enlisted leader for the 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion based in Tampa, Florida.
In addition to his professional roles, Mr. Diaz has contributed significantly to civic activities as a head coach for kids’ sports teams. His dedication to community service is complemented by numerous accolades from his military career, including two Navy Commendation Medals, a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, an Iraqi Campaign Medal, a Global War on Terrorism Medal, a Good Conduct Medal, and a National Defense Medal.
To support his ambitions in his field, Mr. Diaz pursued an education at Triton College, from which he earned an associate degree in science in 2009. He continued his studies with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from DePaul University in 2013. He ultimately graduated from Northeastern Illinois University in 2018 with a Master of Business Administration. Mr. Diaz’s academic credentials have equipped him with crucial knowledge and the necessary skills to thrive in both his civilian and military careers.
A strong work ethic, adaptability, perseverance, and leadership skills honed over more than two decades of military service have been pivotal to Mr. Diaz’s success. He is also incredibly grateful for the mentors and leaders who have guided him throughout his career.
Looking toward the future, Mr. Diaz aims to further advance his career within both the military and aviation sectors. In the military, he seeks to ascend to a higher command level while continuing to serve as a senior enlisted leader and advisor. At O’Hare Airport, Mr. Diaz is committed to successfully completing the ongoing construction program with aspirations of eventually managing an entire airport as an executive director or commissioner.
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