Why has Portland International Airport been named America’s best airport six years in a row? Sure, the carpet makes your Instagram friends swoon. The street pricing for some of Oregon’s best retail stores and restaurants saves your wallet. We believe the real reason you love PDX is the kind, dedicated workers who give you the welcoming experience you’ve come to love and expect from our airport.

On March 7, we celebrated these PDX employees. Our partners—airlines, shops, restaurants, transportation and more—nominated those on their team who exemplify excellence in customer service.

What did we get in return? The inspiring stories of 163 rising stars who would do just about anything for their coworkers and PDX travelers like you.

We wish we could share every story with you, but the accolades would fill multiple screens. Instead, we settled on eight manager-submitted stories that we believe demonstrate the wide range of people recognized at this year’s ceremony.

At PDX, we are a family. We are grateful for these eight stories, the 163 superstars honored, and all 10,000 employees who continue to make PDX America’s best airport.

Andy Kullick - Alaska Airlines

First Officer Andy Kullick has been a shining example of community spirit since he was hired almost 25 years ago. He’s always willing to lend a helping hand with the annual event orienting children with autism to flying, partnering with the Transportation Security Administration and the Port of Portland. He is known among his workers as a pilot that goes out of his way to ensure even the smallest guests are safe and comfortable. Andy has purchased toy airplanes on his own dime to give away as gifts to young children onboard. We are excited that he will be earning his fourth stripe as he upgrades to captain later this year.

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