In her current role at Fraport USA, Shetl Petro oversees leasing, contract compliance, and business intelligence functions for John F. Kennedy Airport Terminal 5 and Newark Liberty International Airport Terminal B, ensuring that all airport operations, commercial agreements, and performance metrics align with organizational goals and contribute to the growth of the business.
Shetl previously worked as a Concessions Manager for JFKIAT Terminal 4 at JFK Airport and has more than 15 years of experience in the aviation industry. Her background spans finance, airline management, terminal operations, safety & security, and commercial oversight, making her a seasoned professional skilled at navigating all of the aviation industry’s complexities.
How did you get your start working at airports or in aviation?
Shetl Petro: I developed a passion for the travel industry at a young age, which led me to an early career in transportation while studying in Germany, working for Deutsche Bahn AG. After moving to the United States to pursue a Finance degree at York CUNY College, I transitioned into aviation, gaining foundational industry experience with international carriers such as Lufthansa, Air Berlin, and Etihad Airways. My time in passenger services provided valuable insights into airline operations, customer experience, and the broader aviation landscape. I later joined JFKIAT Terminal 4, where I gained experience managing the daily operations of a busy international terminal. Throughout my 10-year tenure with JFKIAT, I took on various roles, including Safety & Security Manager and Concessions Manager, further deepening my airport operations and commercial management expertise.
What are the top skills a new airport worker should have to succeed?
Shetl Petro: To succeed in an airport environment, new workers must excel in customer service to assist a diverse range of travelers. Attention to detail is crucial for ensuring safety and security, while time management helps maintain efficiency in a fast-paced setting. Additionally, adaptability and flexibility are essential, as airport operations can change quickly due to weather, delays, or unexpected events.
Is there an airport redevelopment project that you are most interested in seeing completed?
Shetl Petro: One airport redevelopment project I am particularly excited to see completed is the ongoing expansion and modernization of John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). This ambitious project aims to transform JFK into a world-class hub featuring more modern and spacious terminals and upgraded amenities. Given JFK’s importance as a major international gateway, the completion of this redevelopment will not only increase the airport’s capacity and operational efficiency but also boost its competitiveness on a global scale.
Additionally, very close to me is the T5 Refresh project. Seeing that project come to life will be especially rewarding. I am eager to see how these improvements will enhance the passenger experience and streamline airport operations.
How has networking or involvement in the Airport Community benefited your career?
Shetl Petro: Networking and involvement in the airport community have been incredibly beneficial to my career, especially because it’s a smaller, tight-knit community where relationships truly matter. What’s interesting is that in this small community, it’s not about who you work for but the relationships you build. You never know who you might end up working with or for in the future, and these connections can often lead to unexpected opportunities. Over the years, I’ve created valuable relationships that have supported my growth and opened doors to new experiences, proving the importance of collaboration and trust in this industry.
Did you have a mentor at the beginning of your career? Can you tell us about them and how they impacted your career?
Shetl Petro: Throughout my career, I have been guided by incredible mentors and met great leaders who have shaped my professional journey. Their support and leadership have shown me the power of building and maintaining strong relationships, both personally and for the success of an organization. Inspired by their influence, I mentor college students who aspire to join the aviation industry, sharing my knowledge and experiences to help them navigate their own paths. It’s my way of giving back to the community and helping the next generation of professionals succeed.
Would you use a pilotless, autonomous aircraft such as an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for short trips?
Shetl Petro: The idea of using a pilotless, autonomous aircraft like an eVTOL for short trips is definitely intriguing. While I would appreciate the convenience and potential environmental benefits of eVTOLs, I would likely have some concerns about safety and technology reliability, especially in the early stages of adoption. The technology behind autonomous aircraft is evolving, and while it has great potential, many people, including myself, would need to see a proven track record and safety data before fully embracing it for personal or business travel.
Was aviation your first choice for your career?
Shetl Petro: While I have always been passionate about the travel industry, I also had a strong interest in numbers. I advanced my education with an MBA in Finance and found a way to merge both interests. Today, I work in aviation, where I contribute to the aviation industry I love and apply my expertise in airport analytics and commercial strategy, helping to drive growth and innovation in the industry.
Fraport USA
JFK Airport, Terminal 5
Jamaica, NY 11430
www.fraport-usa.com
