Piedmont President’s Award: Rafael Torres Morales sets the standard of excellence
For Rafael Torres Morales, a career in aviation began following a simple question inquiring about the cost of a plane ticket.
“I was paying $500 to $800 to visit my family,” recalls Rafael. “A friend, who was the Piedmont General Manager in Huntsville, Alabama asked me, why don’t you work at the airport?”
Rafael moved from Mexico City to Huntsville in 2004, he worked as a graphic designer running his own business before changing career paths to aviation. He joined Piedmont as a ramp agent in 2012. For a while, he balanced doing both jobs but then decided to devote his time solely to Piedmont and to continue to take advantage of the flight benefits.
“I love Huntsville, I’ve been here for 22 years and don’t plan on moving anywhere else. Mexico City is like a smaller version of New York City, so when I moved here, I liked how much quieter and affordable it was,” said Rafael.
Fourteen years later, Rafael’s dedication to helping others succeed has made a lasting impact at his station. In 2025, he was recognized as one of 25 recipients of Piedmont’s highest honor, the President’s Award. Rafael received over 15 nominations and was selected from numerous nominations across all workgroups in the organization.
What sets Rafael apart isn’t just his work, it’s how he approaches people. Whether assisting passengers with disabilities, guiding travelers through the airport, or translating for Spanish-speaking customers, he consistently steps in where he’s needed most.
“I remember my first time flying and I was lost,” said Rafael. “So, when I see someone struggling, I want to help.”
That instinct has made him a go-to resource across the Huntsville station.
“He’s always the first one to step in,” said Allison Potter, Piedmont General Manager at Huntsville Airport. “Even if there are enough people working a flight, Rafael will go out there and help. It’s just who he is.”
Through his experience on the ramp, he has developed a strong understanding of the importance of safety. Rafael became a trainer in 2024, taking on the responsibility of preparing new hires for the ramp. He strives to be patient and approachable, often going beyond the standard timeline to ensure every new team member feels confident on the job. Both he and his colleagues emphasize the complexity of ramp work is something often misunderstood by those outside the industry.
“There are a lot of situations where you can get hurt very easily,” Rafael said. “That’s why training the right way is so important. People think we’re just throwing bags, but it’s more than that.”
“Ramp agents play one of the most important roles at the airport,” Bridget Mitchell, Customer Service Supervisor added. “They must be the eyes and ears. They have to stay one step ahead to make sure every aircraft goes out safely.”
Beyond training, Rafael’s positivity helps shape the culture of the Huntsville team, which plays a key role in creating a supportive environment.
“I try to keep things calm and respectful,” said Rafael. “If people are focused on conflict, they’re not focused on safety.”
Despite his impact, Rafael had no idea he had been nominated for the President’s Award. After months of secrecy, his team surprised him with the news with cake and a celebration in his honor.
“I wish I could take a piece of this award and give it to everyone,” he told his team.
According to Potter, that reaction perfectly captured who Rafael is.
He was later honored with all the recipients at a ceremony in March held at the Sullenberger Aviation Museum in Charlotte, North Carolina. Rafael’s brother traveled from Mexico to join him at the celebration.
“I will never forget it,” reflected Rafael. “I felt appreciated, grateful and blessed.”
For Rafael, what began as a job for travel benefits has become far more meaningful. While opportunities elsewhere may exist, the fulfillment he finds at Piedmont continues to keep him here. For those who work alongside him, Rafael’s recognition is well deserved.