The Tribune

A computer and information technology (IT) expert, who earned the reputation of being the ‘go-to’ man at the Nassau Airport Development Company (NAD), has been named Employee of the Year for a record-setting second time.

Crispin Knowles, IT technician, was Employee of the Year in 2009, one year after he started with the company responsible for the development and management of Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA). Now, out of nearly 200 staff members, he was awarded the title again for 2013.

“Crispin’s quiet and approachable demeanour, and his determination to find solutions for any problem someone brings to his attention, have made him the go-to person for assistance in the Information Technology and Electronics Department,” said Vernice Walkine, NAD’s chief executive and president.

“His ‘Yes I Can’ attitude and familiarity with the computer makes dealing with Crispin a pleasure. In addition, he understands the value of customer service and works to exceed expectations every time.”

And, for the first time in NAD’s history, there was a tie for Manager of the Year. Winning the coveted award were Troy Strachan and Nicole Henfield. Mr Strachan, manager of commercial development, joined the NAD team in April 2008, and is one of only two NAD management team members to attain the International Airport Professional designation (IAP).

“While Troy continually demonstrated a keen interest in achieving NAD’s financial goals, he was instrumental in coordinating all of the multiple moving parts of the transition to the new terminal, and effectively got the tenants ready and moved in,” said Ms Walkine.

“It was his impressive commitment to hard work, fearless pursuit of NAD’s entitlements, and the drive to improve personal knowledge and professional achievements that made Troy such a strong contender for Manager of the Year.”

Ms Henfield, manager of parking and ground tansportation, is also a five-year staff member. Described as “young, energetic and tenacious”, she was credited with transforming her department, which is critical to the airport’s operations.

“Nicole consistently demonstrates enthusiasm and hands-on involvement in improving the efficiency of human resources and physical assets,” said Ms Walkine. “She is willing to take on challenges with a calm determination. Her interactions with all of NAD’s customers, internal and external, are exceptional and made Nicole an equally strong candidate for Manager of the Year.”

The final phase of the $409 million LPIA project was completed in late 2013, and today the airport handles more than 200 flights per day, some 80,000 annual take-offs and landings.

“It is wonderful to have such strong candidates for these awards,” said Ms Walkine. “The future of NAD is in exceptional hands with all three of the 2013 winners.”

Prizes for the winners include travel certificates, and technology gifts of their choosing.