commitment to getting the job done! The airport has faced many challenges over the last few years and recognizes the effects of the pandemic on the workforce. Many of our employees made life changing decisions that may have resulted in them no longer being employed with the airport. We are still adjusting to this new world we live in and striving to achieve a new norm that upholds our P.R.I.D.E. values. The airport administration took the time to reflect, prioritize and put in motion programs that acknowledges and invests in our employees and our community. Under the Office of the Chief Administrator, I would like to highlight the work being done on your behalf to make the airport a better place to work.

Have you ever heard the saying, “health is wealth and your greatest asset”? When you are healthy, you have the energy and strength to achieve better results in every aspect of your life.

PHLWELL is the airport’s wellness program and is sponsored by the training unit. Aimed at educating, informing and engaging employees on how to manage their physical, mental, and financial WELLbeing. Activities include virtual and in-person workshops, training sessions, WELLness updates, events/challenges, featured articles, and important health reminders.

Racial Equity Advisory Council (REAC) was created in 2020 to serve as a catalyst and advocate for change to drive lasting impact within the airport. REAC sponsors programs, such as cultural celebrations, roundtable discussions, healing spaces, employee spotlights and educational opportunities that help co-workers see, accept and celebrate the differences in our workforce. REAC also does work behind the scenes to identify barriers, research solutions, and make recommendations for change. An example of this work: REAC identified disparities in pay by racial group, discussed possible solutions centered around workforce development and challenged Airport HR to design a program to mitigate the problem.

The Bridge Program: Milestones to Success became the answer to that problem. Over the last year, Airport HR worked with internal and external stakeholders to develop a workforce development program. Under the leadership of Stacey Lennon, PHL's Deputy CAO, the program provides employees with the training, education and mentorship needed to develop proficiency in the areas requiring upskilling and reskilling while supplementing soft skills to augment the individual’s performance so that they are ready for success. The internal development program combines formal learning with on-the-job training for current employees seeking career change, advancement and/or enhancement.

In February 2023, we welcomed Chevelle Harrison, Director of Workforce Development, to the Department of Aviation. Chevelle will be instrumental as we approach the implementation phase of the Bridge program and seek to build out the apprenticeship program (external pipeline). Chevelle’s leadership and experience will be key as the DOA develops programs to enhance our workforce, develop a qualified pipeline and make the community aware of the variety of jobs available at our airports.

Assistant Director of Community Engagement Keesha Lane is working to prepare the next generation of workers by building relationships, empowering our youth and introducing the airports to our neighbors. In addition to traveling to area schools with DOA staff and stakeholders, Keesha has also reestablished the “Lunch with a Leader” program that brings students from schools across our service region to PHL. Keesha’s work is designed to inspire young people to consider careers in aviation.

Finally, I am pleased to announce that we are reintroducing the DOA’s Internship Program for high school and college students. Internships will be filled according to project needs and last between two-to-six months, based on the project's timeline. We are extending the length of time they can be with us, thus creating the opportunity for a more impactful experience. Departments that are interested in providing job opportunities for students should reach out to Chevelle or staffing for guidance.

Stay tuned for more exciting initiatives that I hope to share with you soon!

We hope that you will join a challenge, attend a class, read an article- invest in you.

Stay healthy,

Delicsha Wilds,

Chief Administrative Officer

HR Updates

HR MOVE TO IP2

DOA Human Resources has moved to 2 International Plaza, Suite 325. We will continue to accommodate staff needs that may arise in the terminals. To coordinate with HR, please contact 215-863-EZHR or email [email protected].

COVID-19 Resources:

Updated COVID-19 protocols for City employees and employee screening policy.

Support your work safety by emailing [email protected] to receive two COVID-19 tests from HR/Safety.

City Resource Group Meetings

• AAPI: Meets on the last Thursday of every month.
• Latindad: Meets on the fourth Thursday of every month.
• LGBTQ+: Meets on the third Wednesday of every month.
• New and Expecting Parents: Meets on the second Friday of each month.
• Women of Color: Meets on the last Friday of each month.

For questions about the City of Philadelphia CRGs, contact Brenna Schmidt at [email protected].

YoPro (Young Professionals) Airport Empowerment Group (AEG)

The Department of Aviation’s YoPro Airport Empowerment Group (AEG) strives to bridge the gap between current and future aviation leaders by providing opportunities for career and professional development, mentorships, and networking for the next generation of airport professionals. The YoPro AEG kicked off its first meeting in February. Virtual meetings will be held the last Tuesday of every month from noon – 1:00 PM.

TO JOIN: Any airport employee aged 40 and under is invited to attend. Email [email protected] for calendar invites if needed.

ABOUT CRGs & AEGs: Employee Resource groups are designed to ultimately make the City of Philadelphia and airports more inclusive places to work. Focus areas include: Networking, Talent Development and Enhancing Diversity & Inclusion Strategies and Initiatives.

If you are interested in participating or leading an AEG at PHL/PNE, email your idea(s) to [email protected]. There must be five people and a leader to implement.

Training Calendar

= Provided by the City of Philadelphia

Biggest Loser | Brown Bag Wellness Series

Open to all employees!

“Self- Appreciation”

Self-appreciation is seeing yourself exactly the way you are, valuing yourself for it, and showing yourself compassion and gratitude. Self-appreciation can change your life by transforming negative ideas of yourself into positive and nurturing self-beliefs.

Join us as we hear from PHL's Very Own, Ashlee Franklin

on Tuesday, April 11th, 2023, from noon-12:30 PM.

(See FLYER for other workshop objective details)

No registration is required. Simply accept the DOA calendar invite when you receive it and you're all set!

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82689273558?pwd=Qll6WWlCakR1OFdiUHZ4eFpscUdqdz09

OR

Dial by your location: +1 305 224 1968 (US)

Meeting ID: 826 8927 3558

Passcode: 284997

Penn Medicine | Mental Health Series

Open to all employees!

No registration is required. Simply accept the DOA calendar invite when you receive it and you're all set!

PHL WELL | Retirement Planning

Open to all employees!

= Provided by the City of Philadelphia

To receive notification of employee updates directly to your phone, email [email protected] with your email and/or cell phone number.

Staff Promotions

Congratulations to the following staff members who were promoted in March:

Stacey Lennon - Deputy Chief Administrative Officer

Shaqunna Duncan - Budget Officer 2

Joann Mattei - Administrative Specialist 1

Terry Zink - Maintenance Coordinator

New Hires

Welcome to our new staff members:

Chevelle E. Harrison - Director of Workforce Development

Benson Daniel - Accounting Transactions Supervisor

Trisha Grace - Airport Environmental Services

Join Us for an Earth Day Celebration

PHL is celebrating Earth Day on April 20th from 9 am-1pm at the B/C Food Court with game, prizes, art, plants, and more! At 11 am, special remarks will be given by CEO Atif Saeed, when he will present the 2023 Earth Day awards to those who have shown dedication and leadership to airport sustainability. The Philadelphia Zoo Animal Ambassador presentation will begin at noon. 

Grab Your Tickets to Fort Mifflin's Airplane Day

Saturday, May 13, 2023, 10AM — 4 PM 

Stop by the Department of Aviation's table at Fort Mifflin's Airplane Day and discover “Why did they build the fort so close to the airport?”. This high-flying event includes guided tours, special photo “sweet spots” for the best angles to photograph incoming aircraft, and so much more. Meet a pilot and learn the basics of aviation, speak with expert plane spotters, enjoy the special Wings Over Fort Mifflin exhibit, and take in the views of the planes soaring above. This year, we’re including a new special interactive presentation on the first manned flight in North America, which took place right here in Philadelphia and over Fort Mifflin! Experience the best plane watching spot in Philadelphia!

For tickets, click HERE.

PHL Food and Shops

Airport's First Gym and Wellness Center Coming Soon!

PHL is getting ready to welcome Roam Fitness! The airport's first gym and wellness center is scheduled to open in June 2023. The facility will be open seven days a week from 7am-7pm. Passengers and employees will be able to purchase memberships by scanning a QR code. Check back next month for more information.

New Openings

Good Luck Pizza in Terminal E opened in March. Look for them in the former California Pizza Kitchen location.

Be sure to sign up for the latest OrderAtPHL discounts by texting PHLSHOPDINE to 267-550-0996. Look out for special promotions and deals throughout the month.

The Latest from PHL's Online Newsroom

At the Airport

Lunch With Leaders Returns to PHL

On February 22, the Department of Aviation marked the return of community tours to PHL by welcoming sixth grade boys from the Elkins Park School Leadership Academy in Cheltenham Township, Pa., to spend the day at the airport to learn about operations.

No Snow This Winter – What Happens to PHL's Weather Resources?

The winter of 2022-23 was very mild in Philadelphia. Because there were no winter storms with accumulated snow, there was no need to prepare the plow vehicles or to have the aircraft defrosted because of icy conditions. So, what does that mean for PHL, a northeastern airport accustomed to preparing for snow? How does a snowless winter affect the way the airport prepares for inclement weather?

"All Things Philly", A Black History Month Roundtable Discussion

The Department of Aviation’s Racial Equity Advisory Council (REAC) closed out Black History Month with a roundtable discussion entitled “All Things Philly”, which included City of Philadelphia department leaders with expert knowledge on racial disparity and inequity and its effect in the workplace.

City of Philadelphia Department of Aviation Receives Almost $2 Million from Commonwealth Financing Agency for Northeast Philadelphia Airport

The Department of Aviation received almost $2 million in funding from Pennsylvania’s Commonwealth Financing Agency (CFA) to support two projects at PNE. The Department received $1 million to rehabilitate PNE’s administration building and $945,000 for security perimeter enhancements.

PHL Making Upgrades to Video Surveillance System

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is conducting a full upgrade to the current Video Management System (VMS) and its associated network infrastructure. The project will enhance and replace closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras across the airport.

Ready for a Spring Adventure? Check Out New Service to CHO, CHA and DAB from PHL

Winter is finally over—time to plan outdoor activities. New service taking flight at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) in April gives guests the opportunity to visit somewhere new.

People at PHL

PHL Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: American Airlines Customer Service Agent Alicia Morgan

American Airlines Customer Service Agent Alicia Morgan was recently recognized in the “Teamwork Makes the Dream Work” category of PHL's Employee Recognition Program. This distinction acknowledges employees who create a positive guest experience through service and delivery while collaborating with other organizations.

PHL Caring Support: Philadelphia Fire Department’s (PFD) Engine 78- Aircraft and Rescue Firefighting Unit (ARFF) and Medic 30 Fire Service Paramedic (FSP), Tanji Michael

Philadelphia Fire Department’s (PFD) Engine 78- Aircraft and Rescue Firefighting unit (ARFF) and Medic 30 Fire Service Paramedic (FSP) Tanji Michael recently received the “Caring Support” award in PHL's Airport Employee Recognition Program.

PHL Impression-Makers: JetBlue Airways Airport Operations Crew Member Imanamani Marcano

JetBlue Airways Airport Operations crew member Imanamani Marcano recently received the “Impression Makers” award from PHL's Employee Recognition Program. This award recognizes customer-facing employees who provide direct customer service to passengers.

PHL Safe & Sound: Allied Universal Security Shift Supervisor Anna Anil

Allied Universal Security Shift Supervisor Anna Anil recently received the “Safe & Sound” award in PHL's Employee Recognition Program. This award recognizes employees who protect the integrity and safety of passengers through proactive communication, exemplary teamwork, courage, and effective action.

City of Philadelphia Department of Aviation Announces Stacey Lennon as Deputy Chief Administrative Officer and Chevelle E. Harrison as Director of Workforce Development.

The City of Philadelphia Department of Aviation announced the promotion of Stacey Lennon ( far left) to Deputy Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), and Chevelle E. Harrison as Director of Workforce Development.

Women in Aviation at PHL

Fifty-three percent of the City of Philadelphia Department of Aviation’s senior team is female. During Women’s History Month, the Department of Aviation celebrated the women who contribute to the airports' success every day.

Women in Aviation: American Airlines Philadelphia Control Center Manger on Duty Joan Wing

The DOA also recognized American Airlines Philadelphia Control Center Manger-on-Duty (MOD) Joan Wing, who oversees departments and functions for daily flight operations to ensure on-time performance at PHL.