Favorite quote: “Remember everything is negotiable.” ~Michael Mandelbaum
Congratulations Mirtha for being selected for the October High Flyer! Your dedication to your customers has really impressed us. How would you describe working for Gogo?
Gogo in one word… dynamic. We have an amazing pool of talented people who are marching to the same tune. They take pride in their work and thrive in an atmosphere of collaboration.
What is your program management style?
I guess I would say I’m very hands on. I’ll take on any challenge, any obstacle that may be in my way and work through it with my team. In the end, it’s our customer (the airline’s) success that counts. Their success becomes our success, and by providing them with the leading edge in technology against their competition, we are helping to transform their brand.
How do you build trust with your customers?
I’m a firm believer that trust is built through transparency and communication. I believe my role is to be the customer’s advocate within our organization. To be their voice, so that they can succeed, and in turn making Gogo more successful.
What has been your proudest moment at Gogo?
When I completed my first prototype GOL 737 – 800 in June of this year. I have an awesome team that worked this project with me. We had no major issues and came in two 2 days ahead of schedule.
Who has been the biggest influence in your career? What kind of advice did he/she give you?
Huge contributors who have influenced me throughout my life are my parents. They came to the US from Cuba with nothing. They were able to build and own a small chain of supermarkets in the Philadelphia area through their hard work. They taught me anything and everything is possible through focus and dedication. A mentor in my career was my former employer Michael Mandelbaum. He taught me to listen, observe and analyze situation and to be decisive. Try to anticipate and be prepared for the worst-case scenarios. But most importantly he would say “remember everything is negotiable”.
I can tell how passionate you are about what you do. Tell me, where/how did it start?
My love for aviation and travel started at the age of 9 when I took my first flight on Eastern Airlines as an unaccompanied minor from Philadelphia to Miami. It was so cool looking out the window and flying above the clouds. Even today I’m still in awe when I get on a plane. I can’t even begin to fathom the physics behind it all.
You travel quite a bit for your role, how do you balance work/life?
I have a very open and honest relationship with my children they know I’m only a phone call away. No matter what I’m always there for them. These days it’s mostly just to listen to hear about their day whether it’s good or bad. I’ve taught them to be independent individuals. At the end of the day they know I love what I do.
I know you are bilingual in English/Spanish, do you know how to speak any other languages?
Italian and I understand about 80% of Portuguese.
Wow, that is pretty impressive. You picked these up while traveling? How many countries have you visited?
Yes…I’d say 9.
What would be the furthest one from Chicago?
Hmmm… Malta.
What is your favorite Gogo perk?
I have to say our 16th floor lounge. It’s such a relaxing environment where you can go and unwind with your co-workers anytime of the day. If you need to clear your mind so that you can be more productive, you can go upstairs and play ping pong. After 4:30 you can share a pint with friends. But most importantly Gogo allows you to have the flexibility to work your own schedule. I feel that’s key in trying to keep a healthy work life balance.
What do you love most about your job?
I love the challenge, the problem solving, the sense of satisfaction when everything works well and that I was a part of making that happen. I enjoy the people- all dedicated professionals who excel at their jobs because they enjoy what they do.
Thank you Mirtha! We are so thrilled to have you as part of our team.
Gogo is home to a fast paced, challenging, and rewarding group of people, making inflight internet and entertainment easily accessible for all aircraft types and its flyers. But you can’t make a company revolutionary without having awesome people behind the scenes. Find out more about who’s redefining the way you fly!
Ready to make a difference on a daily basis yet? Check out our current jobs openings on our Careers page.
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