Richard Hew talks about his life’s work

Richard Hew

Friday,  January 28, 2005

Since power is an essential service, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of CUC, Richard Hew had to tackle the colossal task of restoring power to Grand Cayman in the days following Hurricane Ivan. 

“We had the only working fuel pump and we had to share emergency fuel for shelters, for police, for public works, and for our trucks,” said Mr Hew. “Word got out that CUC had fuel and people were trying to get in the gate. I felt for them, but we didn’t know when we would get fuel again and there wasn’t enough fuel for everyone.”

With a competitive nature from taking part in sports, Mr Hew stays motivated by keeping in shape.

He remembers two highlights in his sports career when he played for the Cayman National soccer team. First was beating the world class Jamaica team and second was when he played against the US National Soccer team. 

“We were soundly beaten,” said Mr Hew. “But it was good for me personally to play against the US team. And even though we were a small country – it showed me that we have the skill and talent here and we can hold our own.”

Mr Hew grew up in West Bay with six brothers and sisters. “In those days, Cayman was a closer community. Everyone knew each other. Life was simpler. There was no TV or radio.”

He majored in electrical engineering at the University of Florida because he liked physics, math and science. Later in 1997, Mr Hew went to Canada to earn his Masters in Business Administration, (MBA) at Wilfred Laurier University. 

Today, Mr Hew believes raising his three children is his biggest, but most rewarding challenge.

“They keep you honest,” said Mr Hew. “If you can be a good parent, you are a much better person all around.”

Mr Hew advices young people to listen and set goals. 

“Success in anything doesn’t happen overnight – you got to put in the time. Sometimes you get lucky and success comes from no effort, but 99 percent of the time, success comes from effort,” he said.

Richard Hew received the Certificate and Badge of Honor for his service to the community after Hurricane Ivan.

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