The Calgary Airport Authority’s iconic White Hat Volunteers will be returning to YYC Calgary International Airport next month to provide world-class hospitality to guests following a two-year pause due to COVID-19.
Guided by the North Star, YYC’s growth and success is based on creating effortless and memorable experiences that reflect Calgary’s legendary hospitality. During the time away, the authority and volunteers worked together to review and modernize the program to ensure it supports the airport’s goals, values, and updated ways of operating. Changes to the program will include new uniforms and enhanced training to enable volunteers to continue playing an important role in delivering excellent customer service.
“YYC is one of the biggest and busiest airports in the country, operating in Canada’s third most diverse city,” said Chris Miles, VP Operations & Infrastructure at The Calgary Airport Authority. “White Hat Volunteers are public ambassadors for YYC and we are excited to welcome them back and make sure they are supported with the tools and training they need to engage with guests in a positive, safe and inclusive way.”
The Authority’s White Hat Volunteer program launched on July 1, 1991, with 45 volunteers. By 2019, the program had expanded to 500 volunteers. At its peak, volunteers were contributing 100,000 volunteer hours per year.
“I love the atmosphere of the airport. It really is a city within a city and the volunteers play a key role in helping the city run smoothly,” said Brian Wyatt, White Hat volunteer since 2014. “Though the volunteer program has been on pause, we’ve been having regular calls to stay in touch with what’s happening at the airport. Everyone is so thrilled to get back at it.”
Guests can expect to see White Hat Volunteers return gradually over the coming months, followed by other volunteers including Pre-Board Pals and musicians as onboarding and training capacity permits.
