Parkway Corporation Ground Transportation Associate Evelyn Gourley was recognized in the “Teamwork Makes the Dream Work” category of Philadelphia International Airport’s (PHL) Employee Recognition Program. This distinction acknowledges employees who create a positive experience for guests through service and delivery while collaborating with other organizations.
As a ground transportation associate, Gourley dispatches taxis, directs passengers, and directs Uber and Lyft passenger pick-ups at PHL. She’s been with Parkway Corporation for nine years and works the 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. shift.
“Passengers are really personable,” said Gourley. “They’ve shown me pictures of their family vacations. I’m a people person and love assisting them.”
She likes that every day is different, and can be found working at different terminals at the airport daily depending on the needs of the operation.
In his nomination of Gourley, Parkway Corporation Airport Assistant Manager Gerri Graham stated, “Evelyn is an effective worker who takes the initiative to do what's needed to be done. She is proactive and a team player while performing her job duties.”
Gourley is a member of the Safety Committee within Parkway Corporation. She enjoys contributing to the committee, which focuses on safety issues and finding solutions at the airport.
Gourley received an additional nomination from Parkway Corporation Airport Assistant Manager Cherise Wall, who stated, “Evelyn is reliable and makes herself available when called upon to fill open positions. She understands the needs of our operation and the importance of passengers receiving the best customer service.”
Wall continued, “She works well with her coworkers and enjoys training newcomers. Parkway Airport Services prides itself in training new associates to deliver exceptional customer service. Evelyn is very instrumental in the training process for new hires. Our management team values her dedication and consistency. Whenever and wherever she is needed, Evelyn is willing to serve.”
Communication and respect are essential to Gourley, who works with different coworkers each day. “I feel like we’re all family at Parkway Corporation,” said Gourley. “They give me plenty of opportunities to do different things. I like working here. They care about their employees.”
On her time off, Gourley enjoys spending time with her family, walking, exercising, praying, reading spiritual quotes, and reading self-help books. She likes to begin her day by meditating to keep her grounded and prepared for her job. She believes in the law of attraction and staying positive, which she hopes is her overall impact at PHL.
Living in South Philadelphia gives Gourley easy access to the Lincoln Financial Field and Citizens Bank Park. She’s one bus ride from Center City and enjoys Philadelphia restaurants like Maggiano’s Little Italy.
Two of her most memorable moments at the airport were when she returned lost items to passengers who appreciated Gourley’s effort. These moments give her a deep sense of gratification.
“I put myself in the passengers' shoes,” said Gourley. “I go out of my way for them because I would want someone else to do the same for me.”
The PHL Employee Recognition Program was established by the airport’s Guest Experience (GX) Department. Honorees are nominated by their peers and selected by the GX Council Steering Committee’s Employee Conduct and Recognition Committee. For more information about the program and to nominate an employee, click here.
