Enhancing airport operations and leadership through innovation, workforce engagement, and sustainability

Join Holly, Editor of International Airport Review in a captivating interview with Candace McGraw, CEO of Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport (CVG) and Chair of the ACI World Governing Board. This episode offers a deep dive into the operational strategies and visionary leadership that have positioned CVG as a standout in the aviation industry.

Candace McGraw discusses CVG’s recent accolades, including being named the best airport in North America serving 5 to 15 million passengers per year and her induction into the ACI World’s Director General’s Roll of Excellence. She reveals the airport’s commitment to understanding passenger personas and tailoring services to meet diverse needs—from enhancing accessibility for those with mobility issues to providing seamless digital experiences for tech-savvy travellers.

The conversation explores CVG’s approach to workforce engagement and retention. Candace details the innovative Strategic Workforce Collaborative, which unites HR leaders from over 70 entities on the airport campus to address common challenges like childcare and transportation. Learn about the comprehensive job portal designed to streamline employment opportunities at CVG, as well as the unique programs aimed at employee development, including tuition reimbursement and certification subsidies.

Holly and Candace delve into the technological advancements at CVG, such as the autonomous baggage tractor—the Auto Dolly Tug—and the potential of autonomous floor scrubbers and lawnmowers. These innovations not only enhance operational efficiency but also redefine roles within the workforce, exemplified by the rebranding of custodial staff to Environmental Technicians, emphasising their engagement with advanced technologies.

Candace shares her insights on balancing growth with sustainability, highlighting upcoming large-scale capital projects that incorporate eco-friendly practices like rainwater recapture and sustainable material usage. She also discusses CVG’s diversified revenue streams, including significant cargo operations with DHL and Amazon Air, and new developments like Cargo Village and Hangar Row projects.

As the first woman to chair the ACI World Governing Board, Candace reflects on her goals to strengthen ACI’s global presence and promote inclusivity in the aviation industry. She addresses the importance of social inclusion, the initiatives at CVG to attract and retain a diverse workforce, and her vision for a more inclusive future in aviation.

Tune in to gain exclusive insights from one of the aviation industry’s leading figures and discover the strategies driving CVG’s success in passenger satisfaction, employee engagement, technological innovation, and sustainable growth.

This episode is essential for airport professionals and aviation enthusiasts eager to learn from a pioneering leader shaping the future of airports.