Leading Behind the Scenes to Keep YMM Sparkling
Behind the scenes at YMM exists a hidden force of talent which helped the Fort McMurray International Airport win the Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Award for the Cleanest Airport in North America.
Meet Glenda Hidgon, the dedicated Cleaning Service Manager of Bill’s General Cleaning Services (BGCS) Ltd. Her passion for cleanliness extends beyond the terminal walls and into the YMM Courtyard garden, where she tends to the physical environment and her beloved team.
Glenda’s journey with YMM started in 2011 as a Custodian at the old terminal, six years after she moved to Fort McMurray from Hong Kong. In 2015, she was recruited to manage the cleaning services by contractor, BGCS.
Today, Glenda and her team of 12 have since helped YMM claim two ASQ Awards for the Cleanest Airport in North America, one in 2018 and most recently in 2022.
“We just do our job diligently,” said Glenda when asked about winning the awards. “It’s a good feeling to see the staff happy and have them recognized for their hard work.”
Glenda also expressed how her team enjoys joining the YMM events and activities throughout the year, whether volunteering at the Halloween event or decorating Christmas trees around the terminal.
Beyond her managerial duties, Glenda has taken it upon herself to transform the YMM Courtyard garden into a blossoming abundance of plants and flowers, including swish chard, onions, basil, spinach, beans and flowers.
As the YMM continues to expand and welcome passengers, Glenda’s influence and green thumb leaves an indelible mark on the airport community.
Photo: Glenda Higdon spends time gardening in the flower bed in August 2023.