SAN DIEGO – March 24, 2016 – San Diego International Airport is pleased to announce that Jana Vargas, its Director of Procurement, received the “Woman Breaking Barriers” award during the San Diego Women of Influence Awards ceremony on March 17, hosted by the Connected Women of Influence organization. According to the organization, the award: “Recognizes a woman who has utilized her position, stature, expertise and influence to break down barriers and effect positive change in her profession, industry or enterprise.”

“Jana’s expertise has helped set the bar high for how the airport does business, and we are thrilled that she’s been recognized by the community for her hard work,” said Thella F. Bowens, San Diego International Airport’s President/CEO.

Vargas has over 25 years of professional procurement and contracting experience with 20 of those years in senior management positions. At San Diego International Airport, Vargas is responsible for the management of procurement, public works contracting, concession solicitations, small business development, surplus, shipping, receiving and the warehouse.

Vargas and her team were instrumental in the contracting process and small business involvement of the airport’s recently opened $316 million Rental Car Center. The airport’s strong commitment to supporting small and local businesses during the facility’s construction resulted in about $186 million in construction contracts going to local businesses, with $70.4 million of that going to small businesses.

Connected Women of Influence is the leading, invitation-only association where women owners, executives and professionals connect, collaborate and cultivate a vast network of high-level affiliations, resources and professional relationships. The Women of Influence awards draws 300+ prominent business leaders, elected officials and women leaders from throughout San Diego County to honor the achievements of women leaders.