A group of young women, fresh off their summer camp counseling duties, recently embarked on a journey that would broaden their horizons and ignite their passions. The group visited Houston Airports to explore potential career paths and gain insights into the complex operations of a major aviation hub and one of the nation's busiest airport systems.
The Camp Counselor Career Catalyst Training program aims to empower underserved youth between the ages of 16 and 21 by providing them with essential workplace skills and career exploration opportunities. The U.S. Department of Labor Workforce Pathways for Youth grant funds the program to expand access to employment and on-the-job opportunities for underserved young people.
"Research shows that working as a summer camp counselor helps develop skills needed in the workplace, such as communication, team building and conflict resolution," said Kathy Elliott, Senior Manager – Girl Experience and Program Innovation for Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council. "The grant helped us recruit and employ staff from historically underserved and marginalized groups. In addition to working as a camp counselor, they received extra training in workforce development skills, career exploration opportunities and educational resources, so they are set up for success after summer camp ends."
This group of young women from Greater Houston was eager to discover how these skills could be applied to future careers. In the final week of the program, they visited Bush Airport.
Their visit to Houston Airports was a highlight of the program. They delved into various departments, from Airside Operations to Emergency Management, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the airport's intricate workings.
Maria Sanchez, a longtime employee of Houston Airports, explained how the Airport Operations Center works as a dispatch center for Houston Airports. Frank Ciaccio and Austen McMillin with Houston Airports Emergency Management detailed how airports need to be ready to handle various emergencies. Randy Dale summarized the reach of Houston's airports- with concessions, airlines and other necessary stakeholders that help make airports successful. David "Hoss" Robertson talked about how Houston Airports works with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to manage wildlife across Bush Airport's acres and acres of land. Cassie Boone explained the runway inspections, concrete maintenance, and weather conditions impacting flight operations. Kelly Woodward, Chief Operating Officer for Houston Airports, talked to the group about why the aviation industry encompasses so much more than flying planes.
"We were thrilled to host these young women and to show them the range of careers available within the Houston Airport System," said Woodward. "It was inspiring to see their enthusiasm and to hear the thoughtful questions they asked during their visit."
The young women commented how they were particularly impressed by the scale of operations at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) and Ellington Airport (EFD) and the dedication of the 1,200 Houston Airports employees.
"They were awestruck by the amount of work that goes into running the airport," said Elliott. "You may also see some of them apply in the future."
Some young women shared that they are now inspired to pursue careers in aviation, while others expressed interest in wildlife management and other airport-related roles. The experience left a lasting impression.
"The visit was a testament to the power of exposure and mentorship," said Cassie Boone, Division Manager – Airside Operations for Houston Airports. "By providing young women with opportunities to explore different career paths, this visit was more than just a field trip—it was an opportunity for them to envision a future where they can play an active role in aviation."