Among other accomplishments, she was recognized by PR Week as a Top
40 under 40 PR professional in 2018.
“In this role, I’m communicating to different audiences on behalf of the
company, but I’m also giving back and it’s just so rewarding the contributions
that Alaska Airlines is making on behalf of the three different priority areas is
actually making a difference,” Branon shares.
As a proud Mexican-American who has overcome discrimination, realizing
she had to work twice as hard to prove her value; and as mother to biracial
daughters, she is committed to opening education and career pathways to
underrepresented communities and ensuring everyone has a seat at the table.
She has passed on this service mindset and pride in heritage on to her
children. This outlook has enabled her to serve on the Hispanic Foundation of
Silicon Valley Board of Directors, where she helps create educational and
career opportunities for students pursuing future STEM careers; on the
Public Relations Society of American Silicon Valley Board of Directors, where
she advises PR professionals on how to build successful careers; and, leads
the Latino Employees Resource Group at her company, where she helps Latino
employees connect with one another, develop mentors and grow their
careers.
“This jump to Alaska has really shown me that when you have the
passion, the skillset, and desire to succeed, stepping out of your comfort zone
and trying something new can really pay off,” Branon adds.
Jackie Rios, Managing Director of Customer Care, Chicago O’Hare – American Airlines. (Left).
Jackie Rios
Managing Director of Customer Care
Chicago O’Hare – American Airlines
Jackie Rios dreamed of traveling the world from a young age. When her older
brother, who worked for American Airlines, encouraged her to apply for a job
within the company she jumped on the chance. If she landed the job, Rios would
enjoy flexible hours, great benefits, and the possibility of travel.
To her delight, Rios got the job and has remained with American Airlines
since 1995. In 2018, she traveled to Dubai, the largest and most populous city
in United Arab Emirates, as part of a Human Resources summit.
“I knew that once I joined the company that two days are never the same,”
Rios shares. “I wanted to explore the world and by joining the industry I knew I
would have those opportunities.”
She began her career as an agent in ticket lift at Chicago O’Hare
International Airport and became a Customer Service Manager before
transitioning to Human Resources, which is referred to as the People side of the
business. She supported various organizations, including Chicago, Flight and
Flight Service, the Integrated Operations Center and most recent, the International
Division, where her scope of care included more than 6,000 American Airlines
team members in 64 countries.
International and domestic employees have come to respect and admire
Rios for her dedication and commitment to her work.
The Mexican-American believes her tight-knit family upbringing influenced
her professionalism.
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