Name: Kim Day
Title: CEO
Company, city: Denver International Airport; Denver, Colo.
Number of employees: 1,200 city employees who work directly for the airport, plus 400 Denver Police and Fire first responders
Recent project: We opened a 519-room Westin hotel adjacent to a commuter rail station, a project that proved highly significant for the airport and far exceeded revenue projections. The rail station brings DEN physically closer to downtown, ridership is increasing and trains run frequently.
First job: Working for a large architectural firm after earning a degree in architecture
Little-known fact about you: I played alto saxophone in high school and college marching bands.
Your Business
What innovations or initiatives do you foresee in the industry over the next few years?
Passenger expectations continue to evolve. DEN is focused on using technology and customer insights to enhance the travel experience while maintaining strong security. In recent years we installed high-speed WiFi, redesigned our website and are exploring responsibly managed ways to communicate with travelers via mobile devices. Ongoing investments will center on convenience, connectivity and operational efficiency.
Best career advice you’ve received: Take any opportunity that comes your way and commit to doing the work well.
What advice would you give someone starting out in the field? Don’t limit yourself. Seek varied experiences, move around to build diverse skills and become well-rounded. The broader your experience, the more valuable you become.
Kim Day as a Traveler
Favorite travel memory or story: I led a delegation to Reykjavík on an inaugural Icelandair flight. We then traveled to a small town on the island’s northern side and took a boat to a remote island, where the group enjoyed fresh mussels and wine—a memorable bonding experience.
One travel tip you cannot live without: Take a bath before bed to relax and reset after a long day of travel.
Best advice for business travelers: Plan thoroughly. Anticipate needs and potential issues to reduce stress and stay productive on the road.
About Denver International Airport
Denver International Airport was on track for a record-breaking year in 2017 in terms of passenger traffic. What can travelers expect from a trip through the airport?
We aim for high quality across every touchpoint. DEN provides fast, reliable WiFi and a wide selection of shops and restaurants that blend local favorites with national brands. Travelers can also enjoy services such as dog therapy programs, pet relief rooms in every concourse and nursing mothers’ rooms. The Plaza area features recreational options including a rock climbing wall, zip line and miniature golf, offering travelers and visitors more than just typical airport amenities.
Tell our readers about the airport’s plans for expansion and renovation.
Our next major effort, the Great Hall Project, is scheduled to break ground in summer 2018. This project will revitalize the main terminal, streamline and improve the security process, and create better pre-security and post-security spaces for both domestic and international travelers. The project timeline targets completion in 2021 and is designed to enhance passenger flow, retail and overall experience.
What can’t-miss activities should passengers look for at DEN?
Visit the Plaza to see seasonal and community events. We host rotating programs such as Oktoberfest celebrations, a seasonal skating rink and community-driven initiatives like a solar dog house competition, where local architects design and build solar-powered dog houses for sale to shelters. These events showcase the airport’s connection to the region and offer unique experiences for travelers.
Tell our readers about the art experience at Denver International Airport.
DEN has a robust public art program with more than 40 permanent works on display. Exhibits rotate and highlight regional culture; for example, a recent “Colorado Music” show explored the sights and sounds of Colorado-rooted musicians. The airport’s art collection is intended to engage, surprise and reflect the creativity of the region, and it has inspired a range of public reactions and conversations.