News and Information for Airport Employees
News and Information for Airport Employees
Alan Kamada Knows How to Program Exceptional Customer Service 
Outstanding customer service doesn't only happen during face-to-face interactions – sometimes creating the best passenger experience happens behind the scenes. PDX volunteer Alan Kamada proved this point by lending his skills to our VIP and musician programs.
After the volunteer program went on hiatus due to COVID-19, Alan was quick to step up and help using Volgistics, the software used to log hours and schedule shifts. From running reports to completing a variety of administrative tasks, Alan made sure the program stayed on track...even during the hiatus.
As we prepared to bring volunteers back, Alan used his expert knowledge of Volgistics and our volunteer program to build new shifts into the calendar for a "soft re-launch." He also streamlined schedules for the PDX volunteer musicians, which involved sophisticated spreadsheets and data analysis – no easy task!
Alan's contributions mean that each of the 150 PDX People who participate as volunteers have the best possible tools to perform their duties, and that each passenger they assist, help or entertain has Alan to thank!
Save the Date: Customer Service Awards Coming Tuesday, April 27
Join us on Tuesday, April 27 at noon for the PDX People Quarterly Awards to recognize outstanding customer service champions. The awards are held virtually so add it to your Outlook calendar now or bookmark this link to watch the live event and be part of the celebration!
Guest speaker Barbara Yamamoto will provide timely insight on customer service during major construction. Barbara led an award-winning culture change project around guest experience at Los Angeles International Airport, which resulted in increased satisfaction and improved worldwide rankings. Additionally, PDX Next construction lead Caitlin Powell will provide a sneak peak behind the construction walls in the old Clocktower Plaza.
Every nominee receives special appreciation for their efforts and the PDX People working committee will select 10 employees – one from each of our airport industries – to win the exceptional honor of a PDX customer service award.
Missed the last virtual awards ceremony? View the event recording or read about past winners on the PDX employee website.
Dedicated Red Lot Appointments End, Other Ways to Schedule Available
Hopefully you were able to sign up for a dedicated PDX employee vaccine appointment at the PDX Red Lot. While there are no more dedicated spots, you can always go to the main OHSU website to schedule for the PDX Red Lot drive-thru clinic. You can also register at Get Vaccinated Oregon to be notified when an appointment is available for you at the Oregon Convention Center. Last but not least, consider joining the Find a COVID Shot Oregon Facebook group, which features a comprehensive list of vaccine sources, expert tips and advice for booking an appointment.
What's New with PDX Next: Temporary All-User Restroom, New Routes and Moving Walkway Closures
While the current all-user restroom on Concourse C is closed, we've opened a temporary location by Gate C12. You'll see a new door and sign during this time.
Another change you may have noticed? New pathways to the checkpoints opened last week and there are updated routes to keep in mind. If you’re looking for the known crew member lane, stay to the left in the D/E lanes and the right in the B/C lanes. If you’re heading to the Badging office, Global Entry or Lost & Found, you'll want to stay to the left on the new path to Concourses D/E and use the stairs or elevators.
On Concourse D, you'll see some construction and temporary walls around the moving walkway. That's because the walkway is closed for removal. Your Concourse D journey may have a few more steps now, but when the new main terminal is complete, it’ll be a short stroll through a bright, open space. Similar closures will occur on Concourse C next month.
We'll keep you in the know on what's new with PDX Next on the PDX employee website where we post updates every month. Have questions or suggestions about construction? Email hello@pdxnext.com.
Allegiant Begins New Nonstop Service to Santa Maria
Last Thursday, Allegiant began a new nonstop route from PDX to Santa Maria Airport in California. The nonstop route will operate twice weekly. Flight days, times and the lowest fares can be found on Allegiant's website.
“We’re pleased to welcome Allegiant to Portland,” said PDX's Director of Air Service Development David Zielke. “This inaugural service to Santa Maria, Calif. is the first of several new vacation destination options for Oregon and Southwest Washington travelers.” Read the full press release about their new route.
Currency Exchange Now Open at PDX
With international air service increasing at PDX, a new currency exchange has opened in baggage claim near the International Arrivals area. For the remainder of April it will be open 7 am to 2 pm; hours will be increased as additional service resumes. 
Celebrating PDX Volunteers
Did you know that April 18-24 marks National Volunteer Week? It provides an opportunity to recognize the impact of volunteer service and the power of volunteers to tackle society’s greatest challenge.
Here at PDX volunteers are a big part of our success. From staffing our information booths, assisting passengers with directions, or welcoming international travelers, members of the PDX Volunteer Information Program (VIP) offer a friendly and helpful face for travelers from all over the world.  
Volunteer musicians are another notable part of our volunteer cohort. The PDX music program works to create a relaxing, stress-free environment for travelers through live music. 
While our VIPs wear the famous royal blue sweaters, a new addition to the PDX volunteer squad can be seen wearing something a bit...furrier. The PDX dog therapy program, overseen by our partners at DoveLewis, brings a bit of love and comfort to travelers. 
Read the full story about our airport's volunteers and how they contribute to the passenger experience in meaningful ways.  
PDX in Pictures
It's springtime, Portland is in full bloom and our baggage claim wanted to get in on the fun.
Just like the flowers dotting our Portland parks and hillsides, two concessions are sprouting up. Your Northwest Travel Mart is taking root against the windows in north baggage claim and, planting their spot by the north escalators, is Elephant's "grab and go." Both locations are ready to provide you with a quick bite or a refreshing beverage.
In the next week, we'll have one more concessionaire blossom – an Elephant’s quick-service restaurant in the south ticket lobby where Starbuck's was previously located. It'll be the perfect spot to snag a warm meal or one of their famously good cookies.

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Shannon McArthur, PDX Customer Relations, 503.415.6859
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