YSJ’s own Erika Ferguson is now internationally recognized for something we already knew: she delivers excellence, every single day.
Erika, a customer service agent with Air Canada at Saint John Airport, was recently awarded a 2025 Air Canada Excellence Award – the highest honour given to team members across the airline’s global network.
Fewer than 60 employees were selected this year out of more than 39,000, and Erika is the first woman at YSJ to ever receive the award.
Winners were treated to a once-in-a-lifetime celebration: a welcome breakfast at the gate in Toronto, cheered by other staff as they boarded a flight to Jamaica, and three unforgettable days in the sun and sand with fellow award recipients.
"They treated us like celebrities," Erika says. "You definitely felt appreciated and recognized."
At the formal award ceremony in Jamaica, Erika walked the stage to accept her award while a story submitted by colleagues was shared aloud. And now, her name is proudly featured on the tail of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, travelling across the globe as a symbol of Air Canada’s highest values.
"It’s crazy to think about sometimes," Erika reflects. "But it’s also an incredible feeling."
Erika is known not just for professionalism, but for the personal care she brings to each interaction.
"It’s rewarding when you can help someone,” she says. “You can really connect with travellers here in a way that’s not possible at larger airports."
Her achievement shines a spotlight on the heart and hospitality that define the travel experience at YSJ. Congratulations, Erika – your team, your passengers, and your community are proud of you.
Watch the award video and see the tail of the aircraft on Air Canada’s Instagram page.