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How We Celebrate Exceptional Service at PDX
At PDX, we believe in recognizing the moments that truly stand out – the ones that reflect our core values of being friendly, knowledgeable, and respectful. That’s why, every quarter, we host the PDX People customer service awards.
Ever wondered, "How are winners chosen?" or even, "How can I win?" Here's everything you need to know:
Who can win?
Anyone who works at PDX is eligible. All it takes is consistently going above and beyond while embodying the PDX People values. Winners attend the event, and all nominees receive recognition.
How do I nominate someone?
If you witness great service – whether it’s a small act of kindness or an amazing customer experience – you can submit a nomination. The ability to nominate is open to everyone: coworkers, managers, and even travelers. If you see something special, say something!
How are winners selected?
The PDX working committee – made up of 30 volunteers from across airport industries – reviews the nominations and selects the winners each quarter.
What's the awards event like?
Winners and their managers are invited to a special celebration with the working committee, and will enjoy a guest speaker, good food, and an awards ceremony.
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What's New with PDX Next: New Exit Lanes Open and Concessions Update
New Exit Lanes: On Wednesday, April 15, PDX’s permanent exit lanes will open on both the north and south ends of our main terminal. As a PDX employee and airport expert, travelers might have questions for you. One of the biggest changes is that travelers will meet arriving passengers at either the north or south end of the arrivals level, instead of the central area between the stadium steps.
If you see a passenger waiting at the stadium steps and looking confused, here's how to help:
1. First ask: Are you picking someone up?
2. If yes, then ask: What airline are they arriving on?
3. Help them look at the arrivals board and direct them to the correct area: Each new area features a cozy spot with the original PDX carpet and chairs.
Gates B and C arrivals: Past the American Airlines ticket counters and Topaz Farms. Look for the tall wooden sculpture and the black and purple tiled art piece along the wall.
Gates D and E arrivals: Past the United Airlines ticket counters and Sheridan Fruit Co. Look for the brown and orange tiled art piece along the wall.
International arrivals: Proceed to baggage claim.
Please note that some of these location markers will only be visible after the exit lanes open on Wednesday, April 15.
Concessions Update: Late night on Tuesday, April 14, Your Northwest Travel Mart in baggage claim will close, but we’ve got exciting news – early in the morning on Wednesday, April 15, Sheridan Fruit Co. will open pre-security in the north meeter-greeter area…and it will be open 24/7! Look for grab-and-go and heat-and-eat items, fresh fruit, and make-your-own smoothies. Also opening on Wednesday, April 15, in the pre-security south meeter-greeter area: Topaz Farms, featuring food from the Sauvie Island farm, fresh flower bouquets from Botanica Floral, and eats from longtime PDX favorite, Elephant’s Deli.
Looking for more PDX Next information? We're keeping you in the know on what's new on the PDX People website. Have questions or suggestions about construction? Email hello@pdxnext.com or call the construction hotline at 503.460.4339.
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Celebrating PDX Volunteers: PDX Volunteer Information Program
Did you know that PDX is home to three volunteer programs – the PDX Music Program, the PDX Volunteer Information Program, and the PDX Animal Assisted Therapy Program? This month, we're highlighting each of these areas in honor of National Volunteer Week, celebrated April 19-25.
When the Volunteer Information Program (VIP) launched in 1993, it had just 13 members – now there are 145 volunteers. Over the last year, our VIPs provided a total of 21,528 hours of service. Beyond the numbers, volunteers are a big part of how PDX creates a welcoming environment for travelers – greeting you with a smile as you come down the escalator or pass through the rotating doors. From staffing our information booth to assisting passengers with directions and welcoming international travelers, PDX VIPs provide a friendly face and helpful resources for travelers from all over the world.
If helping out the traveling public isn't enough of a calling, may of the VIPs also volunteer with other organizations, including Mountain Peaks Therapy Llamas – yes, those llamas! Some even spread that volunteer spirit to their furry family members: VIP Kitty Lewis was featured in the New York Times with a story about her show dog that also volunteers at local senior centers.
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You're Invited:
We Made it, PDX!
For many years, you showed up for travelers, for each other, and for this place. Through every detour and delay, you helped bring something special to life. Now it’s time to celebrate what you made.
The new PDX reflects the character of this region in every detail, from a wave of local shops and restaurants to new sculptures made by featuring Indigenous artists from across the Pacific Northwest. When travelers say PDX feels less like an airport and more like arriving home, that’s local love.
Join us on Tuesday, April 21, at Loyal Legion for an employee celebration that’s part thank you, part check out what's new, and all about the impact you’ve made. Drop in, grab a bite, pick up new PDX swag, and spend time in the space you helped shape.
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Highlighting Accessibility During Autism Acceptance Month
April is Autism Acceptance Month, a time to recognize the multitude of experiences within the autism community and to highlight the critical need for acceptance, inclusion, and connections to support people with autism.
At PDX, we continuously work to improve accessibility. Though many of the following efforts are not exclusively aimed toward people with autism, they support that community along with many others:
- Get sensory inclusion certified – Learn how help make our airport more welcoming for travelers with sensory sensitivities and enter to win a $50 gift card if you take the training by Thursday, April 30.
- Sunflower lanyard program – Geared toward helping travelers with hidden disabilities, sunflower lanyards are available at airline ticket counters, TSA checkpoints, and Travel Oregon.
- Sensory room – Located on Concourse D, this room is designed for visitors with cognitive or sensory processing challenges. Sensory bags are available at the TSA checkpoints and Travel Oregon.
- Mock travel experiences – These events are hosted three times a year in partnership with the Autism Society of Oregon.
- Employee training – Informational videos and articles aimed at embracing and uplifting inclusivity can be found on our PDX employee site.
- Traveler resources – Learn what's available on our PDX accessibility page.
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Save Lives, Give Blood
Want to take home a $10 gift card for Portland Coffee Roasters and a $15 e-gift card for the merchant of your choice? All you need to do is sign up for the United Airlines blood drive on Tuesday, April 28, happening pre-security on the mezzanine level at PDX.
Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood or platelets, and your blood donation helps to ensure there's enough supply for all patients who need it. It costs nothing but your time, and your donation is a gift that can help up to three people. Schedule your appointment now or call the American Red Cross at 1.800.RED.CROSS.
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PDX in Pictures
On Friday evening, PDX and Port employees, along with members of the community, volunteered their time to test the new exit lanes. Thank you to everyone who showed up, put on their walking shoes, and helped make the experience an open-and-shut case for travelers when the lanes open this Wednesday.
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