The Voice of Canada’s Airports
On June 25th, 2026, airports from coast to coast will come together to celebrate the third annual Airport Workers Day, a national event recognizing the dedication, professionalism, and contributions of the people who keep Canada’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 honours the more than 224,000 Canadians whose work keeps communities connected, supports trade and tourism, and powers economic growth across the country.
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, highlighting excellence, innovation, leadership, and service throughout Canada’s airport ecosystem.
2026 National Airport Workers Day Award Recipients:
- 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
The Canadian Airports Council, a division of ACI-NA, is the voice of Canada’s airports. We work to ensure that Canada’s airports have the regulatory and operational tools they need by advocating for policies that strengthen the ability of Canada’s airports to serve their travellers and communities.
Our professional staff in the government affairs, legal, environment, safety, security, operations and technical departments in Ottawa and Washington DC, works to ensure that Canadian and U.S. legislation and regulations help airports operate more safely and efficiently.
