During Pride Month, we’re excited to highlight the remarkable individuals of the LGBTQ+ community on our team, whose contributions consistently enrich OTG with their skills and commitment. Throughout this month, we’ve extended invitations to several LGBTQ+ Crewmembers from various departments to share their thoughts on Pride Month, honoring their sources of inspiration and emphasizing the significance of diversity and inclusivity in our workplace. We’re honored to be able to share their unique perspectives and narratives with you here.
Kent Tiller
LGA Airport Director
Growing up in a small town in New Mexico, I didn’t have much exposure to environments where being different, especially when it came to identity and orientation, was embraced. Like many others, I spent a lot of time feeling like I had to hide parts of who I was just to fit in or feel safe. If I had worked for a company back then that openly celebrated Pride Month, it would have made a world of difference. I would have felt more confident, more accepted, and more comfortable being myself. That’s why it’s so important that we, at OTG, celebrate Pride Month. It’s not just about rainbow flags or statements—it’s about creating an environment where people can see that they are valued exactly as they are. It sends a clear message to our team members, guests, and partners that we stand for inclusion, respect, and authenticity. When we embrace diversity, we don’t just become a better company, we become a stronger, more connected community.
Carlos Smith
IAH Server
For me, LGBT+ Pride Day is more than just a global celebration of gender diversity—it’s a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusion for all people, in every corner of society. I draw inspiration from many sources in my life that motivate me every day to become the best version of myself. They drive me to break down barriers, open doors for future generations in our community, and serve as an example of perseverance and dedication. Pride means never apologizing for who I am and always continuing to pursue what I want, what I deserve, and what I’ve envisioned since I was a child. For all of this, I must acknowledge the immense positive influence of my mother, Enilce, my sister, Dayanara, and my husband, Tom. They’ve supported me every step of the way. Over the past year, OTG has truly become my second home—a place where I can be Carlos Smith, authentically and unapologetically. Here, I’ve felt fully embraced, never judged, and always encouraged to bring my true self to work. That’s the real power of this organization. It’s why I walk into Terminal E each day with a genuine smile—grateful for the incredible experiences I’ve had, the satisfaction I bring to our guests, the glowing reviews, the friendships I’ve formed, and the recognition I’ve earned. At OTG, I’ve found more than a job—I’ve found a place where I belong.
William Hart
Director of Store Planning
For me, Pride Month is about being proud of who you are and standing tall in your truth. It’s about celebrating the simple but powerful idea that we are all born to be exactly who we are—and that’s something to honor, not hide. My husband and I have been married for 14 years. When we said our vows, it wasn’t legal in the state we were married in. But we knew our love was real, our commitment was deep, and that someday the world would catch up—and it has, in so many ways. Today, we’re not just husbands; we’re also proud dads to a beautiful 7-year-old daughter. Our family is full of love, strength, and joy. Pride, for us, is a celebration of that family. It’s a reminder that love makes a family—not structure or tradition. At OTG, celebrating Pride Month is about more than a flag or a campaign. It’s about recognizing that our world—and our workplace—is made richer by the diversity of people in it. We live in a world full of color, and when a company like ours takes the time to acknowledge and uplift that truth, it sends a clear message: Everyone belongs. Everyone has a voice. And all voices will be heard. That’s what Pride means to me—and I’m proud to share that here at OTG.
