Kidell Powell Professional Headshot

Kidell Powell

People-First Leader | Operations Excellence | Team Development

Empowering teams and driving operational success through authentic leadership, innovative training, and genuine care for people

About Me

For over 13 years, I've had the privilege of working alongside incredible people in the aviation industry—from frontline teams to executive leadership. What drives me isn't just operational excellence, but the genuine connections I build and the positive impact I can have on people's lives and careers.

My approach to leadership is simple: lead from the heart. I believe that when people feel valued, supported, and empowered, they naturally rise to meet challenges and exceed expectations. Whether I'm developing comprehensive training programs, coaching emerging leaders, or navigating complex operational challenges, my focus remains on the people behind the process.

Currently serving as Field Service Manager at Delta Air Lines in Boston, I work to create environments where teams thrive. From designing engagement tools to implementing strategic initiatives, I'm passionate about removing barriers and creating opportunities for growth. I'm now expanding my expertise through professional certifications in Project Management and Human Resource Management, always seeking new ways to better serve and support the teams I work with.

Core Competencies

People-First Leadership
Team Development & Coaching
Training Program Design
Operations Management
Project Management
Process Improvement
Employee Engagement
Strategic Communications
Data-Driven Decision Making
Relationship Building

Professional Journey

Field Service Manager

Delta Air Lines
May 2022 - Feb. 2026 | Boston, MA
  • Partner with 100+ team members to deliver exceptional customer experiences through authentic leadership and meaningful engagement strategies
  • Create and facilitate comprehensive training programs that support new leaders in their development journey, resulting in improved confidence and performance
  • Collaborate with cross-functional partners to drive continuous improvement initiatives, contributing to sustained year-over-year growth in customer satisfaction scores
  • Lead the successful launch of the Terminal E Inflight Service facility, bringing together multiple stakeholders and creating a welcoming space for our team
  • Design accessible resources and tools that empower leaders to succeed, including standard operating procedures, communication guides, and recognition frameworks
  • Foster a culture of appreciation by developing systems that celebrate team achievements and individual contributions

Flight Attendant & Purser

Delta Air Lines | JetBlue Airways
May 2017 - May 2022 | New York, NY
  • Built genuine connections with customers and crew members, creating positive experiences during every flight
  • Supported and mentored fellow crew members, sharing knowledge and promoting collaborative problem-solving
  • Earned selection to the Purser program through demonstrated leadership and commitment to service excellence
  • Maintained calm and effective communication during challenging situations, always prioritizing safety and care

Revenue Management Analyst

American Airlines
May 2016 - May 2017 | Dallas-Fort Worth, TX
  • Served as a trusted resource for airport operations and reservations teams, building strong cross-departmental relationships
  • Supported customers during irregular operations by coordinating accommodations and solutions with empathy and efficiency
  • Mentored new team members, sharing knowledge and providing patient guidance during their onboarding journey
  • Collaborated with training teams to enhance learning materials and improve the new hire experience

Customer Service Agent

American Airlines
January 2014 - May 2016 | Los Angeles, CA
  • Connected with diverse passengers every day, ensuring everyone felt welcomed and cared for regardless of their circumstances
  • Navigated complex operational challenges with composure, always seeking solutions that put customers first
  • Provided attentive support to passengers with special needs, creating seamless and dignified travel experiences

Featured Work

Terminal E Operations Guide

I developed and maintain a comprehensive 18-page Standard Operating Procedures manual for Boston's Terminal E international operations. The guide includes opening and closing checklists, irregular operations protocols, a crew support matrix for delays, flight attendant work rule explanations, and a complete contact directory. I also built an accompanying SharePoint Leader Resource Hub that serves as a one-stop destination for operational tools, team talk guides, and cross-terminal communication.

SOP Development SharePoint Process Documentation

Leader Engagement Framework

I designed and maintain the "Team Talk & Concourse" guide—a dynamic resource I update regularly that equips leaders with daily show times, talking points organized by key updates, safety conversations, and performance metrics. The guide includes recognition callouts for top-performing flight attendants and Pursers, important dates, and security advisories. This tool ensures every leader delivers consistent, meaningful Team Talks aligned with current operational priorities and celebrates our people's achievements.

Leadership Tools Team Communication Performance Tracking

Recognition & Performance Tracking System

I built a multi-part recognition ecosystem that includes an Excel-based GST compliance tracking system with conditional formatting to identify flight attendants needing outreach, safeguards to prevent false "zero user" communications, and a detailed process guide for monthly data management. I also created a library of over 90 branded media templates for celebrating team members—covering milestones, birthdays, customer compliments, and peer recognitions. Additionally, I developed "Channel E Vision," a lounge display system that broadcasts real-time performance metrics and FA contributions.

Data Analytics Excel Automation Visual Design

Purser Development Initiative

I created and facilitated the 2025 Purser Hiring Information Session program to attract high-performing flight attendants to the Purser role. I designed the presentation curriculum, run-of-show, and follow-up processes, then delivered four sessions. I also developed the PQMT Discussion Summary template used for annual Purser Leader-to-Leader meetings, quarterly newsletters, and action plans. As a member of the systemwide Leader-to-Leader Working Group, I contributed the "Gratitude Standard"—a process of mailing thank-you cards and emailing discussion summaries after each meeting.

Program Design Curriculum Development Mentorship

Terminal E IFS Lounge Launch

I led all communications and coordination for the Boston IFS Lounge relocation from landside to airside in Terminal E—a milestone two years in the making. I developed the pre-event communications strategy, created a detailed run-of-show for opening day, and produced post-move "ICYMI" materials to ensure all team members were informed. I coordinated with IT, facilities (JLL), and security partners (G2) to ensure a seamless transition, and I continue to manage the lounge punch list and improvement requests.

Project Coordination Change Management Communications

CrowdStrike Crisis Response Solution

During the July 2024 CrowdStrike outage—one of the most severe irregular operations events in recent history—I identified a critical gap in how we were tracking and closing out with affected flight attendants. I quickly built a centralized reporting and tracking platform that significantly improved efficiency, situational awareness, and follow-up completion. This solution reduced confusion, prevented duplicate outreach, and ensured every impacted team member received timely support and communication during an extremely challenging operational period.

Crisis Management Process Innovation Rapid Solution Design

Let's Connect

I'm excited to explore opportunities where I can contribute to building strong teams, improving operations, and creating positive workplace cultures. Let's start a conversation.

Based in Boston, MA