In recognition of Women’s History Month, Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts spotlighted its commitment to fostering greater access to advancement opportunities among its female employees.
While a 2021 industry report found that women hold around 25% of senior managerial roles in the gaming sector, Empire City has a leadership team that has nearly 50% female representation. Many of them have grown within the organization over the years. In addition to working their way up, many of these women have used their deep experience and perspectives to mentor the next generation.
Some of the women in leadership roles at Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts include Human Resources Executive Director Danette Jordon-Woods, Slot Operations Shift Manager Theresa Tirado, Income Control Supervisor Althea Esty and Director of Surveillance Karen Delgado. Each of their stories highlights Empire City’s commitment to developing talent and elevating women in leadership roles.
Jordon-Woods began her career at Empire City as an employment and training manager in 2006 after being introduced during a general networking event. In this position, she played a key role in recruiting, screening, hiring and licensing over 2,000 employees over the four months leading to Empire City’s opening.
After MGM Resorts acquired Empire City in 2019, she helped guide the team through this major transition, which contributed to seamless technology and cultural integration. She is also on the City of Yonkers Workforce Development Board.
“I’m proud to be part of an organization that creates meaningful pathways for women—and all employees—to grow, succeed and advance in their careers,” Jordon-Woods said. “Our stories clearly illustrate that success is achievable.”
Tirado has been an employee of Empire City for 19 years. She started in the Food and Beverage Department, advancing through various roles before transitioning to the Slot Department.
In her current role as slot operations shift manager, Tirado oversees the department’s day-to-day operations. Additionally, Tirado is part of Empire City’s Corporate Responsibility Council, where she volunteers with Feeding Westchester and Catholic Charities of New York to support various community initiatives, including combating food insecurity.
“MGM Resorts provides many opportunities to grow our careers into management, and I’m thrilled to have a position that allows me to support the team and empower others,” Tirado said. “I believe women should support and empower each other. It’s a big reason why I continue to stay and grow with the company.”
Esty, who moved to the United States from Jamaica when she was 14, started her career at Empire City 22 years ago as a horseman’s bookkeeper at Yonkers Raceway. She later transitioned to the accounting department, steadily advancing until she reached her current role as income control supervisor. In this position, she is responsible for ensuring the accuracy of the daily reporting of gaming and non-gaming income.
“Company initiatives such as mentorship and career development have helped find our voices and pursue senior roles,” Esty said. “These efforts by MGM Resorts have grown since acquiring Empire City, demonstrating a strong commitment to its workforce.”
Delgado, who is originally from Ecuador, has worked for Empire City for almost 15 years. She began as a surveillance operator, rising in the ranks to her current title as director of surveillance. Her job involves overseeing a team of skilled operators, technicians and managers, who are responsible for surveillance and security functions.
This team also maintains a state-of-the-art system that monitors billions in gaming activity annually to ensure guests and team members are in a safe and secure environment. Delgado is among the less than 20% of women who hold surveillance and security positions. This reflects both her expertise and Empire City’s commitment to creating pathways for women to succeed and lead.
“Empire City has created an environment where growth is truly supported. Their mentorship and trust I have received allowed me to step into leadership roles, strengthen my skills and build a career I’m proud of,” Delgado said. “It’s a culture where people feel empowered to succeed.”
