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Image of Alma Peña: From Port college intern to Airport Parking Superintendent

Alma Peña: From Port college intern to Airport Parking Superintendent

Alma_Pena2016Alma Peña is the Port of Oakland’s Airport Parking and Business Operations Superintendent. She has worked at the Port for nearly 20 years and currently works at Oakland International Airport (OAK) which is owned and operated by the Port.

Alma came to the Port of Oakland as a college intern in 1993. Three years later, she saw a job opening in the airport’s then-Terminal Services department. She applied for the position and was hired. Over the years, she has worked in contract compliance and management in Terminal Services and Aviation Security until she was promoted to her current position.

As Parking and Business Operations Superintendent, Alma is responsible for public parking lot facilities, parking revenue control system, on-airport shuttle bus services, and fleet maintenance.

According to Alma, her job is like “a mixed bag of candy” because she gets to try out and enjoy the different aspects of her job; she gets a taste of everything. “I try to establish, nurture, and maintain effective working relationships with others while finding solutions to provide our airport patrons with high levels of customer service. This all means a safer, more secure, and affordable parking facility.”

In 2015, public parking at OAK generated more than $36 million in gross revenue, which is the second largest source of airport revenue after commercial airline fees. The revenues generated by on-airport parking ensures that the Port delivers high-value products to customers and delivers job opportunities to the local community.

When asked about what she likes most about her job, Alma said, “My job is complex and versatile—and ultimately our shuttle bus drivers and parking lot cashiers are the first and last impression that our airport customers have.  It’s a balance between managing all of the various functioning parts to ensure that the operation as a whole is performing properly, effectively, and efficiently.I am thankful to the Port for all the support and opportunities both professionally and personally.”