Black History Month honors Black individuals' contributions, achievements, and experiences throughout history. Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) celebrates Black History Month by recognizing employees who make a significant difference in the workplace.
Meet Ryan Moten (left), PHL Pavement & Grounds (P&G) Superintendent. In his role, Moten oversees P&G’s employees and work, which includes landscaping, pavement repair, sanitation, street sweeping, snow removal, and grass cutting. Throughout his 12 years at PHL, Moten has held a number of roles, first starting in the custodial department and then becoming a semi-skilled laborer within P&G, where he moved up several different positions until his current position.
“I’m the first person of African American descent to be the superintendent of Pavement & Grounds at the airport,” said Moten. “This month means seeing the struggle that Black people went through and recognizing the opportunities we can take advantage of that we could not before.”
Moten draws inspiration from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose legacy of courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice resonates deeply. He lives by Dr King’s quote, “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.”
At PHL, Moten is inspired by Milton Robinson, Keith Brune, and Allan Witney. Moten appreciates
Witney’s dedication to PHL’s BRIDGE program, allowing him to oversee four new young mentees. “I never thought I would ever be in this position,” said Moten. “Years ago, I had a meeting with Keith, and by the end of it, he told me I’d become Superintendent one day. Keith and Milton believed in me. I learned on the job. The airport was the best thing that could ever happen to me. Everyone here is ready to train you if you put forth the effort.”
Moten is proud that he established and published a standard operating procedure (SOP) for repairing potholes and pavement failures. He believes that dedication, determination, and drive will take one anywhere in life.
This Black History Month, Moten hopes people will learn to get to know each other for who they are and to be fair without passing judgment.
Moten has been the superintendent at P&G for 10 months. He believes it could not have been possible without his PHL family's support. “I would also like to thank my colleagues Kevin, Bill, Scott, Rob, James, Sean, Champion, Johnny, Keith, Brian, Chris, Milton, Wally, John, the entire P&G department, and the entire Maintenance department,” he said. “I thank them for always being there and supporting me. They’re still with me, believing in me and being a positive part of my growth.”
Moten is grateful to be at PHL and appreciates the opportunities he’s been able to take advantage of over the years. “I’m still in awe,” he said. “I love my job. I say it all the time. I know many people say that, but I mean it. The sky is the limit here. This job is the greatest thing that could happen to me. This is where I want to retire.”
