Kaya Polizzi
Kaya Polizzi is a seasoned aviation and security operations professional, currently serving as Program Manager at Covenant Aviation Security at Portland International Airport (PDX). In this role, she oversees a team of 95 security officers, ensuring the seamless operation of critical airport functions under the TSA Partnership Program. Her work spans compliance enforcement, emergency response coordination, regulatory oversight, and the management of complex, high-stakes environments, reflecting her expertise in aviation security operations, risk management, and large-scale team leadership.
Over the course of her decade-long career, Kaya has managed multi-million-dollar security portfolios, led rapid-response initiatives for critical infrastructure, and implemented security strategies across diverse sectors including logistics, energy, healthcare, and high-value retail. She began her career in restaurant management, helping a national brand expand rapidly, before transitioning into security management where she distinguished herself through operational excellence, strategic planning, and the ability to thrive under pressure. Her accomplishments include directing statewide operations, leading national anti-piracy initiatives, and coordinating emergency security staffing for energy grid threats.
Beyond her professional achievements, Kaya is deeply committed to personal growth, education, and community service. She is pursuing dual Associate degrees in Accounting and Criminal Justice with a 3.81 GPA, while preparing for advanced certifications in Aviation Management and Forensic Financial Compliance. A dedicated single mother, Kaya balances her career and studies with volunteer work, including leadership roles in Portland Animal Welfare and founding The Hero Squad, a children’s literacy nonprofit. Her career and personal journey reflect resilience, discipline, and a commitment to protecting others while striving for excellence in all areas of life.
• Executive Managers License | Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST)
• Portland Community College — Associate of Science, Accounting + Criminal Justice
• Arizona State University — Associate of Science, Biology
• Eagle Eye Covenant Award for Excellence (December 2025)
• Port of Portland Excellence Award for Security Operation Management
• Influential Women 2026
• Influential Women Network
• Portland Animal Welfare (Distribution Coordinator since 2022)
• The Hero Squad — Founder, children’s literacy nonprofit
• LA Family Housing — Head Cook
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to resilience, adaptability, and a strong work ethic. I thrive under pressure and remain focused on growth opportunities, which has allowed me to manage complex operations while pursuing education and family responsibilities.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
I have been fortunate to have mentors, such as Larry Grant and other leaders in security management, who guided me to take on leadership roles and encouraged me to continuously expand my skill set. Their advice to embrace challenges and step confidently into high-responsibility positions has shaped my career trajectory.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this field is to build strong professional networks, remain resilient, and embrace high-pressure environments rather than fear them. Step confidently into leadership roles and invest in continuously expanding your skills—you are capable of leading and shaping complex operations.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in aviation and security management is adapting to evolving threats while maintaining operational efficiency. This also presents opportunities to innovate in risk management, infrastructure protection, and leadership development, as organizations must stay ahead of increasingly complex security landscapes.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Discipline, accountability, service, and continuous growth are central to my professional and personal life. I am deeply committed to protecting others while advancing my knowledge and leadership capabilities, and I prioritize maintaining balance between my career, family, and community involvement.