Allied Universal Security Officer Crystal Oberton is committed to maintaining the highest security standards at PHL. Oberton recently received the “Safe & Sound” award in Philadelphia International Airport’s (PHL) Employee Recognition Program. This award recognizes employees who safeguard the integrity and safety of passengers through proactive communication, exemplary teamwork, courage, and decisive action. 

As a Security Officer, Oberton is the eyes and ears of the airport’s baggage claim and collaborates with Airport Police, Operations, and all safety entities at PHL to protect guests. She has worked in security for 27 years, serving six of those years at PHL. She is certified in CPR/AED.  

Oberton is an early riser and always arrives at 5:30 a.m. to report to her 6 a.m. shift. Once she clocks in, she touches base with her supervisor and makes security rounds throughout the airport. At work, Oberton is known for demonstrating values of customer-centrism, prioritizing passenger needs, transcending expectations, and integrity.  

In her nomination of Oberton, passenger Amber Faustino stated, “My elderly grandmother missed her flight due to a misunderstanding. She was struggling to walk and called me in distress. Thankfully, my grandmother found a nice lady named Crystal who helped her and also talked to me. Unfortunately, my grandma missed her flight, but Crystal was an angel. She helped my grandma get something to eat and made sure she got to her next gate. Unfortunately, the next flight wasn't for five more hours, but I don't know what would have happened without Crystal.”  

Oberton is humble and counts receiving this award as one of her most memorable moments at the airport. Upholding the safety and security of all passengers is Oberton’s number one priority.  

Oberton believes in extending compassion and treating people with kindness and respect.  

“Working with Jeremiah Hall taught me a lot,” said Oberton. “I learned a lot of social service skills every day. I enjoyed working with him.”  

Oberton enjoys working at PHL and collaborating with other safety entities at the airport. “When everybody works together our work environment becomes a better workplace,” she said.   

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.