OTTAWA, ON – On June 25, 2026, airports across Canada are celebrating the third annual Airport Workers Day, a national event that honors the dedication, professionalism, and contributions of the people who keep the country's aviation system operating safely, efficiently, and reliably every day.
From customer service representatives and environmental specialists to security personnel and operations leaders, Airport Workers Day recognizes the more than 224,000 Canadians whose work connects communities, supports trade and tourism, and powers economic growth across the nation.
National Awards Highlight Excellence
As part of this year's celebration, the Canadian Airports Council (CAC) is proud to recognize nine outstanding individuals through the 2026 National Airport Workers Day Awards. These awards highlight excellence, innovation, leadership, and service throughout Canada's airport ecosystem.
“Airport Workers Day is an opportunity to recognize the people who make Canadian aviation possible,” said Monette Pasher, President of the Canadian Airports Council. “Whether they are supporting passengers, maintaining critical infrastructure, advancing sustainability initiatives, protecting airport operations, or helping goods reach global markets, airport workers are the foundation of our aviation system. We are proud to celebrate these award recipients and the thousands of dedicated professionals they represent.”
2026 National Airport Workers Day Award Recipients
The following individuals received awards for their exceptional contributions:
- Airport Innovator: Kaitlin LaBelle, Airside Operations – Edmonton International Airport
- Environmental Steward: Andy Whitman, Environmental and Technical Data Officer – YQR Regina International Airport
- Outstanding Contribution to Safety and Security: Rick Stacey, Airport Security Officer – St. John's International Airport
- Excellence in Efficiency Optimization: Thitola Thach, Manager, Learning and Development – Ottawa International Airport
- Industry Champion: Susan Smith, Senior Lead – Sydney Airport
- Outstanding Leadership: Trudy Gordon, Airport Security Guard Supervisor – Charlottetown Airport
- Operational Excellence: Francis Côté, Superviseur des opérations – Montréal–Trudeau International Airport
- Rising Star: Jessica Chan, Environmental Technician – Vancouver International Airport
- Outstanding Service: Wareesha Mashhood, Customer Service Agent – Toronto Pearson International Airport
Airports as Economic Gateways
Canada's airports are more than transportation hubs; they are essential economic gateways that connect Canadians to opportunity. Airports facilitate domestic and international travel, support supply chains and trade, enable tourism growth, and serve as critical infrastructure for communities of all sizes.
The recipients of the 2026 National Airport Workers Day Awards represent the extraordinary talent, commitment, and diversity found throughout Canada's aviation workforce. Their achievements demonstrate the innovation, leadership, and dedication required to support one of the country's most important sectors.
