About
Emilio T. Gonzalez

Emilio T. Gonzalez is a seasoned public servant, decorated military officer, and international executive with decades of leadership experience in national security, immigration, government, and business.

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Born in Havana, Cuba, and raised in Tampa, Emilio graduated from the University of South Florida and was commissioned as an Army officer through USF’s inaugural ROTC program. His military career spanned over two decades, with assignments in artillery, intelligence, diplomacy, and education. Furthermore, he served at the Defense Intelligence Agency, as Army Attaché to Mexico and El Salvador. Due to his distinguished career, he was honored to be selected for the teaching faculty at United States Military Academy at West Point. He retired honorably from the U.S. Army with the rank of Colonel.

In public service, Emilio served as Director for Western Hemisphere Affairs at the National Security Council within the White House. Emilio also served as Director of U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services, an Under-Secretary rank and Senate-confirmed position within the Department of Homeland Security. Later he was Director and CEO of the Miami-Dade Aviation Department and City Manager of the City of Miami. Under his leadership during his tenure as CEO of the Miami-Dade Aviation Department, Miami International Airport grew into an award-winning global brand. Under his innovative leadership MIA became the first air pharmaceutical hub in the United States and spearheaded expansive growth in the ecommerce business. Last but not least, under his leadership as the City Manager, the City of Miami reached record-low crime, top-tier bond ratings, and robust economic growth. Additionally, Emilio promoted innovation and technology in providing municipal services to residents.​​

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He has also held executive roles in the private sector, including U.S. CEO of Indra Systems and founder of his own consulting firm. Emilio holds advanced degrees from Tulane University, the U.S. Naval War College, and a Ph.D. from the University of Miami. He also has an honorary Doctorate in Business from Florida Memorial University an HBCU recognized institution. He has received multiple honors from U.S. and nine foreign governments. The Carnegie Corporation recognized him with the “Great Immigrant, Great American” award.​

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Emilio currently serves on several advisory boards, including the National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation. In 2024, he was appointed to the State of Florida Treasury Investment Council and the State of Florida Defense Support Commission.