Three MSP Airport community members honored with Customer Service Hero Awards

Three members of the MSP Airport community were honored this week with an MSP Airport Customer Service Hero Award, which recognizes exceptional service that enhances the customer experience at MSP Airport.  

Joan Anderson, Schmitty & Sons 

As project manager for Schmitty & Sons, Joan Anderson leads Quick Ride Ramp shuttle operations at MSP Airport seven days a week. Her nomination highlighted not only her own dedication to travelers but the culture of service excellence she has built across her team — more than 30 of which earned MSP Nice award recognition in 2025. 

“What truly sets Joan apart is her ability to create positive, lasting impressions on customers while empowering her team to do the same,” her nomination read. “Her impact is best told through the travelers she’s helped. When a passenger returned to a dead car battery after a long trip, Joan stayed in constant contact, kept assistance on-site, and even arranged a personal jump-start, turning a stressful moment into one of gratitude and loyalty. 

“She reassures first-time travelers navigating accessibility needs, supports customers through unexpected parking issues with diligence and follow-through, and consistently creates a calm, welcoming experience that eases the stress of travel.” 

Kyle Benshoof, Areas 

Kyle Benshoof has been a part of the MSP Airport community since 2019, when he joined Areas — then Delaware North — as a cashier at the North Loop store. In the years since, he has become known for a larger-than-life personality and a genuine ability to turn stressful travel moments into positive ones. 

“Whether helping a passenger find a last-minute charger before boarding, tracking down hard-to-find items, or assisting with vouchers when others couldn’t, he consistently goes above and beyond to ensure every traveler feels supported and valued,” his nomination reads. “His approach is simple but powerful: Put himself in the customers’ shoes and do whatever it takes to make their journey easier.  

“Travelers repeatedly share how Kyle’s positivity makes a lasting impact. From easing the frustration of delays to brightening early mornings with his cheerful attitude, Kyle creates moments of connection that stand out in the fast-paced airport environment. Frequent flyers and flight crews make a point to stop by his store, knowing they’ll be greeted with the same enthusiasm and care every time.” 

Mitku Gebru, Metropolitan Airports Commission 

MAC Assistant Facilities Technician Mitku Gebru has worked at MSP Airport for more than 20 years, including with the MAC since 2017. He works the third shift as a pest control technician — a role largely invisible to travelers, but essential to keeping the airport safe, clean and welcoming every day. 

“What truly sets Mitku apart is his attitude,” his nomination read. “He embraces busy periods as opportunities to contribute more, not less. He understands that when the airport is busiest, customers and stakeholders need support the most. He has built strong, respectful relationships with airline partners, concessionaires and internal teams, earning trust through reliability, responsiveness and kindness. 

“Early in his career, Mitku embraced a simple principle that continues to guide him: Treat others the way you want to be treated. He took that message to heart, carrying it with him as a personal standard for every interaction. Whether supporting a colleague, assisting a partner or simply doing his job with care, Mitku consistently reflects that belief in action.” 

About the awards 

Winners are selected by a committee of airport community representatives through the Customer Service Action Council (CSAC) and receive a certificate, an engraved crystal trophy and a $1,000 check provided by the Airport Foundation MSP.