Division of Aviation Custodial Worker II Ronnie Jones recently received the “Safe & Sound” award in Philadelphia International Airport’s (PHL) Employee Recognition Program. This award recognizes employees who protect the integrity and safety of passengers through proactive communication, exemplary teamwork, courage, and effective action.
As a custodial worker at PHL for the past nine years, Jones is part of a team dedicated to the cleanliness of the airport. He works the 10 p.m. – 6 a.m. overnight shift, and frequently picks up overtime shifts.
While Jones is working, he gladly assists lost or confused passengers in finding their desired location and helps passengers carry their luggage when they cannot.
“I enjoy meeting nice, humble people who appreciate what I do,” said Jones.
At the airport, Jones remains observant of his environment by being alert and aware. In her recommendation of Jones, PHL Director of Guest Experience Leah Douglas stated, “While I was in the terminals, I witnessed Ronnie Jones, who was working approximately 15 feet from where I was sitting, walk over to an adult passenger whose child (about 4-5 years old) was standing on the window ledge that's about two feet above the terrazzo floor. The adult was not holding on to the child. Ronnie stopped what he was doing and walked over to the adult to inform them that this was not safe for the child. He was extremely polite and professional. Ronnie stated that the window could fail, or the child could get hurt if they fell to the floor. Ronnie proactively prevented an unfortunate incident that would have been detrimental to the child, the adult, and the airport. He did not have to intervene, and as a matter of fact, I was sitting nearby and did nothing except observe Ronnie doing the right thing.”
Jones is a humble man who continuously works on his hospitality and believes in working hard to reach his desired outcomes. He values and respects all his colleagues and believes everyone’s input matters. “I get along with all my co-workers. Most of them want to work with me because of how I carry myself,” he said.
At the airport, Jones focuses on customer centrism and transcending expectations. “Passengers are joyful and engaging,” said Jones. “I’ve had great conversations with them.”
Jones is proud of his family and his daughters for reaching high levels of education.
“I want to thank my wife and my kids,” said Jones. “I also want to thank Milton Robinson and Janet Stressman for giving me the opportunity to display my skills. I appreciate everyone else for recognizing me as well. I also want to give a shout-out to the custodial department and all my coworkers. I appreciate them.”
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.
