American Airlines Facility Maintenance Supervisor Ariel Morales recently received the “Unsung Heroes” award from Philadelphia International Airport’s (PHL) Employee Recognition Program. The program honors employees who work behind the scenes and are not typically recognized for their work. Although they do not work directly with guests, their effectiveness significantly affects the airport and guest experience.
As a facility maintenance supervisor, Morales resolves restrooms, lighting, HVAC, painting, and construction issues. Within American he’s an environmental coordinator and oversees hazardous waste disposal. He’s also on the safety subcommittee, working towards proactive airport safety practices and procedures. Morales has been at PHL for 19 years and works from 6 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
“I want to make life easier for passengers and employees,” said Morales. “I’ll wear whatever hat I have to wear so that the plane leaves safe and on time.”
At PHL, Morales is known for his teamwork, effectiveness, integrity, and courage.
In her nomination of Morales, American Airlines Facilities Maintenance Supervisor Barbara Calise stated, “Ariel and I have worked together for six years. He is always willing to get involved to help solve any issues within his scope of knowledge. For example, he used to be a Customer Operations Manager in his prior role and has detailed knowledge of the baggage handling system for American. Approximately one month ago, the baggage handling system went down; Ariel immediately sprang into action and found a solution. His resolution was then put into action the evening of the occurrence. Although Ariel works early morning shifts, he ensured he was available during the fixing process. His actions ensured that our traveling guests were more likely to reach their destination and find that their bags arrived with them. His ‘behind the scenes’ effort went unnoticed by the traveling public. Kudos to Ariel for making our guest experience amazing without them even being aware. He works extra hours daily and comes in frequently on his days off to handle issues without his manager asking. I am proud to say I work with Ariel on the facilities team. He gets things done!”
Morales strives to find the right solution for the problems he works on and fixes them correctly the first time.
“I like people,” said Morales. I like seeing the smiles on people’s faces. It shows me that what I did means something to them.”
Two of his most memorable moments have been receiving the American Chairman’s Award and receiving this Employee Recognition award. “The fact that one of my colleagues nominated me for this award means a lot to me. To know that my voice and opinion matter.”
Morales considers himself blessed to be part of his facilities team and appreciates how they constantly exchange ideas.
“I love being here,” said Morales. “I’m able to be my authentic self. I thank my great mentors Pat Lewis, Barbara Calise, and Lakshman Amaranayaka.”
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.
