Jess Stewart, Amazon’s KCVG Air Hub Director of Operations, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to "lead with safety" in a LinkedIn post dated December 6.
"I had so much fun doing this interview. Amazon is truly a great company, and I'm blessed to be able to represent my site and the Amazonian way we take care of our people every day," said Stewart, according to LinkedIn. "Always lead with safety!"
According to Amazon, there has been progress in workplace safety, with an 8% reduction in recordable incident rates globally in 2023. The rate decreased from 5.1 to 4.7 injuries per 200,000 working hours, marking an improvement from the 2019 rate of 6.7. Facilities utilizing robotics have shown lower incident rates due to ergonomic enhancements and automation of repetitive tasks. Systems like the AI-powered "Sequoia" workstation and "Robin" robotic arm are designed to mitigate risks associated with repetitive motions and heavy lifting. Stewart said, "We can’t lose ourselves in the process," emphasizing the need for efficiency while maintaining safety.
Stewart prioritizes inclusion and understanding employee needs, as said by Amazon spokesperson Andre Woodson to Kentucky Business Daily. She has established various communication channels such as employee groups and affinity programs to gather feedback directly from employees. Stewart told the Northern Kentucky Tribune, "We want all our employees to feel at home at Amazon, and we strive to create the best working environment." She added that they value diverse perspectives and aim to provide opportunities for advancement. Additionally, she engages employees with local charities through participation in community events and initiatives like supporting the Free Store Food Bank and Make a Wish.
Originally from Paris Crossing, Indiana, Stewart began her role as Director of Operations at Amazon's Air Hub in Hebron in August 2023. The facility spans 600 acres near Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport and includes an 800,000-square-foot sortation building among seven buildings. It handles 36 cargo flights daily and features solar panels contributing power to the local grid.
As Director of Operations at the Amazon KCVG Air Hub, Stewart oversees more than 2,000 employees and leads Amazon’s largest field operation, according to Woodson. She holds a degree in organizational leadership and supervision from Purdue University. Stewart noted that safety is her top priority during peak seasons.
Amazon implements Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives alongside workforce development programs. Through its Career Choice program, it offers hourly employees educational opportunities including high school diplomas and college degrees.