Travelers Aid International Information Navigator Mahliq Alexander is known for his fun and sociable personality at the airport. He received an “Impression Makers” award from Philadelphia International Airport’s (PHL) Employee Recognition Program for his commitment to ensuring all guests are guided to their desired destinations. This award recognizes employees who consistently exhibit exemplary customer service in their roles. It honors their dedication to providing outstanding support and fostering positive relationships with guests and colleagues alike.
As an Information Navigator, Alexander assists guests with airport navigation. He has been at PHL for over five months and works the 6 a.m. - 2 p.m. shift Tuesday through Saturday. Alexander is passionate about airplanes and hopes to become a pilot one day. He believes his experience at the airport will help him transition into an aviation career.
“The most meaningful part of my job is knowing that I've left a positive impression and left someone with a positive experience,” said Alexander. “Whether I’m simply greeting them or walking them to their gate, I like to feel their reactions, gratitude, and appreciation. I try to make passengers' day better one way or another because I know traveling can be overwhelming. I politely greet them with positive energy.”
Communication and compassion are personal skills that Alexander ensures guests feel when interacting with him.
In his nomination of Alexander passenger Jeff Litton stated, “I just wanted to take a moment to sincerely thank and recognize one of your team members, Mahliq Alexander, for the incredible service he provided during my recent visit to the airport. While I was trying to find my gate, Mahliq kindly offered his assistance. He was not only helpful and knowledgeable but also incredibly warm, patient, and friendly. In a place that can often feel hectic and stressful, his presence brought a sense of ease and joy to my travel experience. He went above and beyond simply pointing me in the right direction; he made me feel genuinely welcome. Employees like Mahliq make a world of difference. His kindness and professionalism truly stood out, and I hope he is recognized for the positive impact he had on my day.”
At PHL, Alexander enjoys seeing people from all different nationalities and backgrounds. He enjoys the dynamic energy at the airport and credits PHL with helping him gain confidence in himself and his job.
Alexander was also nominated by another passenger who stated, “I have a disability, ruptured aneurysm. Alexander never left my side, he made several calls until he found me help. He treated me like I truly mattered. He is very valuable to your company. He convinced me that flying can be a pleasant experience in the right hands. Thank you again, Mahliq Alexander.”
A quote he lives by is “No real success will last without just an honorable action.”
Alexander’s most memorable moment at PHL was his first two weeks on the job, when he received positive feedback from guests impressed by his customer service. He was recognized at a stakeholder meeting and told how his skills will help PHL prepare for an influx of passengers in 2026 for the FIFA World Cup and other events. “I was very proud of the recognition, just as I am in reference to this Employee Recognition award as well,” he said. “I felt like I got off to a great start.”
Alexander enjoys the training exercises he and his team receive as well as the camaraderie they’ve built with one another at the airport.
“I appreciate anyone who has ever written in about me or said anything positive about me,” said Alexander. “I strive to be my best. I feel like I've grown a lot here, and I'm very fortunate, and I'm grateful. I want to extend thanks to our management team, especially Milton Creary, for being a great leader. I also thank all police officers,’ other airport workers, and Marketplace PHL concourse coordinators as they’ve been friendly to me and made me feel like family.”
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 the program and to nominate an employee, click here.
