For Rosa, her interest in aviation was sparked during a family trip to Italy while in eighth grade. If the trip itself wasn’t already an amazing experience, what made it unforgettable was what happened onboard. The crew of the 747 welcomed Rosa into the cockpit, encouraging her curiosity and answering all her questions. It was a moment that left a lasting impression and inspired her future career.
I knew this is where I wanted to be.
Along with that childhood experience, Rosa’s decision to pursue aviation was driven by an appreciation for the industry’s energy and purpose.
It was interesting, different, and fun. The industry is about bringing people together.
With the memories of her trip staying on her mind, after high school, Rosa went on to complete a Travel and Tourism program at Confederation College. The two-year diploma laid the foundation for her future, equipping her with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the aviation world. From there, she quickly went on to land a part-time Customer Service Agent role with Bearskin. Her training consisted of three weeks in the classroom, followed by a week of job shadowing. Within a year, she was offered a full-time position and eventually was promoted to Supervisor in 2012, a role she proudly holds to this day.
One of Rosa’s favourite parts of the job is witnessing heartfelt reunions between family and friends alike.
The joys and hugs I get to witness put a smile on my face.
She also finds meaning in being able to make things happen, whether helping in an emergency or helping business professionals get home after successful meetings. There’s a sense of pride in knowing her work contributes to those moments. These experiences remind her of the human side of aviation and the joy it brings.
Her choice to join Bearskin back in 1996 was deeply rooted in community values.
They were a locally owned company, and they participated in many charities within the city of Thunder Bay, as well as some of the cities they served. I was proud to be part of a company that gave back to our community.
Nearly 30 years later, she’s still proud to be a part of the Bearskin team.
For those considering a career in aviation, Rosa reminds us that there are endless possibilities to get involved in the action. If front line isn’t your cup of tea, there are plenty of other departments available, like human resources and tech records, that still come with the unique benefits of working for an airline. The opportunities in aviation extend far beyond the runway.
From a curious young traveler to a seasoned aviation professional, Rosa’s story is a testament to how a moment in time can shape a lifelong passion. We’re lucky to have her as a part of our team.
