Salt Lake City ramp agent Mark Roberts has been recognized for his dedication to service both at work and in the community. Roberts, who joined Delta Air Lines in 2018, was highlighted by Allison Ausband, Executive Vice President and Chief People Officer, after meeting him on September 11, a national day of service.
Roberts credits his commitment to helping others to his upbringing and religious beliefs. He was inspired to join Delta after seeing the positive attitude of his now-brother-in-law, who also works for the company. “He set the example. He seemed like he had fun, he seemed like he was always happy when we had family gatherings,” Roberts said. “I wanted that.”
Roberts participates in several volunteer projects organized by Delta Air Lines. Among these is packing food bags for the Utah Food Bank, an activity he enjoys because of its direct impact on children in need.
One event particularly meaningful to Roberts is Delta’s annual Jet Drag fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. Teams compete to pull a jet as quickly as possible—a challenge that Salt Lake City teams often win. The cause is personal for Roberts; his father survived prostate cancer. “It’s all about teamwork,” he said. “If you aren’t in unison with your team, you’re not going to get it.”
At work, Roberts helps mentor new employees at Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), sharing what he describes as a servant-leader mindset and a willingness to learn from challenges each day. “Challenges are amazing because that’s where you learn and grow the most,” Roberts said. “I look forward to challenges every day. Whether I know the answer or not, I still move forward.”
Ausband described Roberts’ approach as emblematic of Delta’s people-first culture: “Our people-first culture is a heritage we’re proud of at Delta. I was inspired by how clearly Mark sees that culture shine through every day. Putting people first is essential to what we do: Only then can our people go out and give the best care to our customers.”
Roberts expressed gratitude toward Delta Air Lines for its support: “I feel like Delta has given me so much. They give and give and give, and all they want is the best,” he said. “I feel like that’s why I’m here today, to continue to give my best, because I get the best. You’re going to give that to me? OK, I’ll show you, I can do even better.”
