Katarzyna “Kasia” Sek

As Director, Operations Planning and Implementation, Kasia is a key member of Vantage’s Operational Readiness and Transition (ORAT) teams, currently supporting facility design and phasing activities at JFK Terminal 6. Kasia provides oversight for all JFK Terminal 6 ORAT planning and implementation initiatives, a role she also held at LaGuardia Gateway Partners during the transition to the award-winning Terminal B. Kasia’s additional airport specializations include security, health and safety, and passenger services. 

Prior to joining Vantage Group, Kasia spent a decade with JFK IAT, where she held roles in both Operations and Safety. In the Operations Department, she served as a coordinator supporting terminal and airside operations, including capacity and gate planning. She later moved into the Safety Department, focusing on SMS, conducting incident and accident investigations, and supporting safety-related initiatives. Kasia began her career with Swissport, where she worked as a passenger service agent for multiple airline accounts, gaining hands‑on experience in check‑in, boarding, customer service, and day‑of‑travel operations in a fast‑paced airport environment.

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How did you begin your career in aviation or at the airports?

Kasia Sek: I began my journey in the industry by taking an entry‑level role after spending a college summer working check‑in at JFK. That summer ultimately inspired me to shift my career path toward aviation.

Was aviation your first career choice?

Kasia Sek: No, however, my degrees in education and psychology have been an asset in aviation. It gave me an understanding of human behavior and communication, which is essential in managing passenger environments and driving operational excellence in a people‑focused industry.

What are the essential skills that a new airport worker should possess to succeed?

Kasia Sek: To succeed in the airport environment, strong communication skills, situational awareness and problem-solving skills are key assets.

How has networking and involvement in the airport community benefited your career?

Kasia Sek: Aviation is a ‘small’ industry and built on strong relationships, collaboration and a shared commitment to improving the passenger experience. In a field built on partnerships, networking isn’t an option, it’s a core part of success. 

What is the most memorable moment in your aviation career or at the airports?

Kasia Sek: The most memorable moment of my aviation career was contributing to the first major terminal replacement across our three airports. Being part of the Terminal B redevelopment at LaGuardia, reshaping NYC’s gateway and setting a new standard in passenger experience was both a privilege and incredibly rewarding.