Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts In Yonkers, in recognition of Women’s History Month, is spotlighting its commitment to fostering greater access to advancement opportunities for employees by continuing to invest in mentorship, career development and community engagement –– key values behind employee retention and advancement. That investment has fostered a culture of growth and longevity, with hundreds of employees working at Empire City for more than 15 years.
According to a 2021 industry report, women hold approximately 25% of senior managerial roles in the gaming sector. Empire City’s female leadership team is well above casino industry standards with nearly 50% being held by women.
Across departments, from food and beverage to operations to management women at Yonkers Raceway Empire City are building long-term careers and mentoring the next generation of leaders. Many have grown within the organization over the years, creating pathways for others and bringing deep experience and perspective to their roles. Several team members have been with the property since its opening as a racino in 2006. Their stories highlight Empire City’s commitment to developing talent and elevating women in leadership roles, including:
Danette Jordon-Woods, executive director of human resources, born and raised in the Bronx, joined Empire City during its transition to a racino. After first being introduced to Empire City during a general networking event in 2006, Jordon-Woods began her career as an employment and training manager where she played a key role to recruit, screen, hire and license more than 2,000 employees within four months, in time for the opening of Empire City. In 2019, she helped guide the team through a major transition following MGM Resorts’ acquisition of Empire City, contributing to a seamless technology integration and cultural transition. Outside of work, Jordon-Woods enjoys spending time with her family, traveling and giving back to the community as a board member of 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. Our stories clearly illustrate that success is achievable,” said Jordan-Woods.
Theresa Tirado, slot operations shift manager, is a resident of Yonkers and has been with Empire City for over 19 years, working in the food and beverage department where she advanced through a variety of roles. Tirado has continued to grow her career by transitioning to the slot department where she was promoted to her current role assisting in overseeing day-to-day operations. Tirado is also a part of the Corporate Responsibility Council, where she volunteers with Feeding Westchester and Catholic Charities of New York to combat food insecurity, among other initiatives.
“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,” said Tirado. “I believe women should support and empower each other. It’s a big reason why I continue to stay and grow with the company.”
Althea Esty, an income control supervisor and Bronx resident, has been with Empire City for 22 years. Originally from Jamaica, she came to the United States at the age of 14. Her career with Empire City began as a horseman’s bookkeeper at Yonkers Raceway. Over the years, she transitioned to the accounting department, steadily advancing into her present role where she ensures accuracy in daily revenue reporting in gaming and nongaming income. Esty values Empire City’s commitment to fostering meaningful opportunities for women in the gaming and racing industry.
“Company initiatives such as mentorship and career development have helped find our voices and pursue senior roles,” said Esty. “These efforts by MGM Resorts have grown since acquiring Empire City, demonstrating a strong commitment to its workforce.”
Karen Delgado, director of surveillance and a Yonkers resident, has been with Empire City for nearly 15 years. She oversees a team of skilled operators, technicians and managers responsible for surveillance and security functions, maintaining a state-of-the-art system that monitors billions in gaming activity annually to ensure a safe and secure environment for guests and team members. Originally from Ecuador, Delgado began her career as a surveillance operator and steadily rose through the ranks into her current capacity. In an industry where fewer than 20% of surveillance and security positions are held by women, Delgado’s career progression 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,” said Delgado. “It’s a culture where people feel empowered to succeed.”
Approximately 237 Empire City employees have been with the company for more than 15 years, including several employees who have been with Empire City since transitioning to a racino.
Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts is one of the largest entertainment and gaming destinations in the Northeast. Featuring nearly 4,700 of the hottest slots, electronic three card poker, blackjack, craps, roulette, baccarat and sic bo table games, Empire City Casino also offers guests year-round harness racing and international simulcasting; and live entertainment. Open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 6 a.m. Empire City Casino is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM).
MGM Resorts International is an S&P 500® global entertainment company with national and international locations featuring best-in-class hotels and casinos, state-of-the-art meetings and conference spaces, live and theatrical entertainment experiences, and an extensive array of restaurant, nightlife and retail offerings.
