Two Denver International Airport Executives Honored with Industry Recognition

DENVER – Feb. 13, 2024 – Denver International Airport (DEN) is celebrating two of its executives for recent recognition for their achievements related to creating opportunities for women in transportation and construction and for excellence in property management.

Penny May, DEN’s Chief Commercial Officer, was named Airport Experience News’ 2023 Property Manager of the Year earlier this month. The publication highlighted May’s fresh and vibrant approach to concessions in the Great Hall Program expansion and renovation efforts. May oversees various aspects of DEN’s operations including concessions, procurement, business operations, airline affairs, business technology, and air service development.

“I am truly humbled and grateful to receive this recognition,” said May. “It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of a talented team to deliver a great customer experience at DEN.”

Jim Starling, DEN’s Chief Construction and Infrastructure Officer, was awarded Man of the Year by the Colorado Chapter of Women’s Transportation Seminar (WTS) for being a leader in transportation, for directly contributing toward the advancement of women and minorities through programs or opportunities in the transportation field, and for his outstanding contributions to the industry.

“I am incredibly honored to have received this award. Creating opportunities for women to get a foothold and advance their careers in transportation fields is something that has always been near and dear to my heart,” said Starling. “The Gate Expansion Program and Great Hall Project, for example, have benefitted greatly from the expertise and ingenuity of women at all levels.”

May and Starling are integral to DEN’s Vision 100 and Operation 2045— efforts that serve as a blueprint to align decision-making and accountability for the 100 million annual passengers DEN expects as soon as 2027 and as it approaches its 50th anniversary in the year 2045.

“I commend Penny May and Jim Starling for being recognized for their hard work and for embodying DEN’s values of operational excellence, equity and inclusion,” said DEN CEO Phil Washington. “We are all stronger because of their leadership and dedication.”

For more information about DEN and its Vision 100/ Operation 2045 mission, visit https://www.flydenver.com/about-den/vision-100-operation-2045/.

Denver International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world. DEN is the primary economic engine for the state of Colorado, generating more than $36 billion for the region annually. For more information visit www.FlyDenver.com, check us out on YouTube and Instagram, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. Sign up for DEN’s monthly newsletter Nonstop News.

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