Meet Your YYC Workplace Representative Candidates - April 2025 Elections

Greg Hughes, CSA-B

My name is Gregory (Greg) Hughes and currently working as a Baggage Service Agent. I've been a proud Westjetter for 2 years, spending an exciting year as a Ramp Service Agent before moving to Baggage Services in an effort to learn more about our day to day efforts. I  started with our former BTW partner, ATS, quickly working my way up to Crew Chief before joining Westjet. It may not be relevant, but I think it's worth mentioning that I was initially hired to join TAC, however the plague locked the world down, and that offer was withdrawn. Prior to becoming a Westjetter, I worked for the Cooperative Retailing System for 25 years, 20 of which was as a Union Shop Steward, so I am very familiar with understanding CBA's, representing my coworkers/members and working with supervisors and managers. I believe this variety of both Airport experience and union knowledge makes me the ideal candidate to be your next Workplace Representative. I am asking for your vote, and thank you for considering me to be your next Representative.

Harmanpreet Kang, CSA-B

Candidate did not provide a bio. 

Meenu Mara, CSA-B

Candidate did not provide a bio. 

Tahir Naroo, CSA

I joined WestJet on May 30th, 2024. Even though it seems a short period, I have 22 years of experience working in a union environment with large organizations, such as Allstream Inc. and Bell Canada.

I’m passionate about creating a fair, supportive, and inclusive workplace where everyone’s voice is heard and respected. As a Workplace Representative, I would bring strong communication skills, a calm and approachable attitude, and a genuine commitment to standing up for colleagues when it matters most.

I listen carefully, act with integrity, and always strive to find solutions that are fair and balanced. I’m not afraid to ask the difficult questions, and I’ll make sure your concerns are raised and your rights are protected. Whether it’s navigating workplace issues, pushing for better conditions, or just being someone you can turn to for honest support, I’ll be in your corner.

You should vote for me because I will represent you with dedication, fairness, and transparency. I care deeply about making our workplace better for everyone, and I’ll work hard to make sure no one is left behind.

Erin Hood, CSA

I believe I would make an effective representative because I have good communication skills and am confident in using my voice within the workplace. I would like to be an assistant in advocating for my fellow co-workers by helping them navigate the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) in a positive and collaborative way. My goal would be to help foster an environment where people feel supported and valued.

I have been a Customer Service Agent at WestJet for over two years. Although I don’t have direct experience in union representation, I grew up in a family with both parents who worked throughout their lives in unionized positions, instilling in me a strong understanding of workers' rights and solidarity. Additionally, I serve as a board member on a condominium association, where I represent the interests of homeowners and advocate for them with the management company, contractors and other owners.

Tracy-Lynne Maclellan, DDC

I’m honoured to have been nominated by my peers to represent our members and Local 531.

This role requires being the face of the union as well as defending the rights of our members gained through collective bargaining and political action. It also means holding all parties accountable to our Collective Agreement, understanding that with the rights we gain, we also bear equal responsible to that agreement. Being a workplace rep also means taking on some tough jobs and maybe getting a little feisty! I’m ready to represent you if you’ve been injured, faced discrimination, or had your Collective Agreement rights violated. I strongly believe when one member is represented well and benefits from the union, we are all better for it.  

I have working knowledge of the Collective Agreement through my role in DDC as well as Women’s Advocate. I also sit on Unifor National Prairie Regional Council Women’s Committee representing the interests of union members across Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. I hope to continue the advocacy, communication and representation as an elected member of our union here at YYC. Essential to this role is understanding human rights, the grievance process, meeting representation, workplace mental health, and our Local by-laws. I won’t always have the answers, but I promise to find them and communicate them out to you. I am committed to establishing trust and credibility with each of you and will work hard to represent your interests. 

You have questions. You have concerns. You deserve to be heard. I’m ready to listen.

Thank you for considering me for the role of workplace representative. Above all else, please take the time to vote, even if I’m not your choice. It’s important that your voice is heard, and your choice is represented. 

Sharon Watson, CSA-B

Sharon Watson has been proudly flying with WestJet since 2010, bringing 15 years of knowledge, passion, and dedication to every role she’s taken on. From her early days as a Call Center Agent to her work with the Experience Facilitation Team (EFT), Central Baggage Services (CBS), CBS Ops Specialist, Guest Support (GSUP), and now holding it down in Airports as both a BSA and GSL-B—Sharon has built a career grounded in versatility and heart.

She’s known as a supportive leader who brings fairness, integrity, and a strong sense of equity to everything she does. Her teammates know they can rely on her—she’s always looking out for others and lifting up the people around her.

When she’s off the clock, you’ll find Sharon curled up with a great book or dreaming of her favorite getaway spot—the stunning Cayman Islands.

Evalee Finlay, CSA

I’m Evalee Finlay, I came to Westjet as a CSA at YYC almost a year and a half ago and in that time I have met so many amazing people. I am so very proud to work at a place where we greet each other with a warm smile or often a big hug. We are a lot like family and this is a huge reason why I am running for the position as a workplace representative, because I stand up for my family to ensure their voices are heard and their needs are met.

Prior to working at Westjet I was a stay at home mom for my two special needs children who both have fragile X syndrome and this threw me into a position of frequently having to stand up for what’s right even in the face of authority. Because of this connection paired with my desire and expertise with advocacy I volunteered as a member of the Board of Directors for the Fragile X Research Foundation of Canada and served as a Canadian member of the North American working group for the National Fragile X Foundation.

I bring with me a background in not for profit marketing and communications as well as journalism with time spent working my way up from an internship to copyrunner to having a frequent column in a widely read daily local newspaper. This taught me how to research and speak up with well thought out opinions. I am far from a ‘yes man’ and have no problem bringing forward concerns and standing my ground when needed, I have often been referred to as being firm but fair as well as approachable and easy to talk to and bring questions to.

I come from a family with extensive union experience and am well versed at not only reading but understanding and extrapolating the important aspects of a collective agreement. I would make a strong workplace representative because I have lived your concerns. I will stand up for our members to ensure your voices are heard. In my time as a CSA I have earned a reputation as being someone who is approachable and easy to talk to but also gets the job done right. I will bring these qualities to this position as well and leverage it for better working conditions so that we all feel valued and appreciated

Patricia Black, CSA-B

I started with WestJet in 2010 as an SSA agent in the contact centre. I then moved to RSD for a year and a half before leaving WestJet. When I left I went in to further my education goals of becoming a paralegal. After graduating from college for a second time I went on to work at the court of appeal. I worked at both Calgary and Edmonton courts of appeal 43 years before leaving to help the ministry of justice opened their contact center. I came back to WestJet in 2021 to the airport. As a baggage services agent. At that time, I was also a GSL-B relief. I left the airport for a brief period back to the contact center but I’ve decided the airport is my home.

I want to be your union representative to help my co workers stand up for what is right. It would bring all my work related worlds together. Having a paralegal diplomat and having worked at the courts gives me a good understanding of legal jargon. It allows me to be able to explain legal terms to coworkers in plain layman terms. If you feel like I'm the best fit, please vote for me.

Sharon Perren, WFC

Sharon Perren has been a proud member of the WestJet team since 2005, bringing over 20 years of dedication, experience, and heart to everything she does. She began her journey as a groomer, washing aircraft with pride and care, before moving into roles as a CSA and eventually spending the majority of her career in DDC. Today, she continues to make an impact in Workforce, where her insight and experience help keep things running smoothly. 
Sharon’s passion for supporting her colleagues is as strong as ever. She has already served one term as a workplace rep for Local 531, where she stood up for fairness and advocated for her peers with integrity and compassion. Known for her professionalism, steady presence, and genuine care, Sharon is the kind of teammate others know they can count on.  Her deep love for WestJet and the people who make it special shines through in every interaction—whether she’s lending a hand, offering support, or just being someone who listens. With over two decades of service and a rock-solid reputation, Sharon continues to be an exceptional advocate and an even better teammate.

Shawn Ayerst, CSA

Candidate did not provide a bio. 

Tammy (Ma Zarina) Diquiatco, CSA

My name is Ma Zarina Diquiatco, but I prefer to be called Tammy. I am honored to accept the nomination as a union representative.
With a career spanning nearly two decades, I’ve built a strong foundation in the hospitality and customer service industry. I began in 2005, working in hotel operations in Manila, Philippines, before spending five years aboard a cruise ship, delivering world-class service to guests while traveling across the globe. 

In 2014, I moved to Canada to continue pursuing my passion for hospitality. I started as a food and beverage server and progressed to a pub manager role by 2016. Currently, I serve as a Guest Experience Expert at Delta Hotels by Marriott, where I strive to provide memorable service and create meaningful guest experiences. In 2023, I expanded into the aviation industry by joining WestJet, where I bring my years of frontline experience to ensure every traveler receives exceptional care. I have been with WestJet since January 2023 as a Customer Service Agent (CSA), and in June 2024, I stepped into the role of GSL Relief. Throughout my time here, I’ve grown deeply committed to our team and the values we uphold.

I’m proud to have been nominated as a semi-finalist for the Calgary White Hat Awards in both 2024 and 2025—an honor that recognizes excellence in Calgary’s tourism and hospitality industry. Outside of work, My wife and daughter are my greatest inspiration and motivation, continually encouraging me to grow, serve, and lead with heart.

I look forward to the opportunity to represent and support my colleagues, ensuring our voices are heard and respected.

Thank you for your trust and confidence.

Nicolle Stuart, CSA

Hi everyone! In case you don't know who I am, I’m Nicolle Stuart, I currently work as a CSA and am a GSL Relief. I currently work in the evenings.

I’ve been part of the WestJet family since 2005 – and in July, I’ll be celebrating 20 years with the company. Over the years, I’ve worked in a wide range of roles across multiple departments including the Call Centre, the Destination Desk (interline travel for employees), admin roles in People, WestJet Vacations, Marketing, and the Contact Centre, a Senior Admin in both Marketing and Airports, a Guest Service Ambassador, a Customer Service Agent, and currently Guest Service Lead (Relief). 

My broad experience has given me insight into the many challenges and opportunities faced by WestJetters across departments. I’ve always believed in staying informed and involved, which is why I make it a priority to attend Unifor meetings regularly. 

Earlier in my career, I was also part of the PACT (Proactive Communications Team) when I worked at Campus—an experience that taught me the importance of open, transparent communication and being a voice for my peers. 

If elected, I promise to listen, advocate, and represent your interests with integrity, respect, and fairness. I care deeply about our workplace and our people, and I would be honoured to support you as your union representative.

Let’s work together for a stronger, more connected WestJet. Thanks for your support!

Jamie Mote, GSL

With 28 years of experience at WestJet, I bring a deep understanding of our workplace, our people, and the challenges we face together. Over nearly three decades, I’ve proudly served in a variety of roles across the company, including Flight Attendant, Inflight Team Lead, Customer Service Agent, Baggage Services Agent, Airport Applications Tester, Guest Service Lead, and AEA (Airline Employee Association) Representative. 

Most recently, I was elected by you—my colleagues—to represent our group on the Unifor Local 531 Bargaining Committee. Over a dedicated nine-month period, I worked alongside a committed team to help create our very first collective agreement. Since then, I’ve continued to support and advocate for employees as a Workplace Union Representative, ensuring fair representation and helping team members navigate issues with confidence and clarity. 

Thanks to my hands-on experience across departments and my active involvement in union matters, I’ve developed a strong working knowledge of our collective agreement and how it applies in real-time workplace scenarios. My goal is to continue being a strong, accessible, and informed voice for you. 

I’m asking for your vote to continue serving as your Workplace Union Representative for the next three-year term. Let’s keep building a stronger, more united workplace—together.

Michelle Smeltzer, CSA

With over 20 years in corporate project management, I’ve built a career on strong communication, collaboration, and relationship-building. I’ve always believed in the power of connection—whether it’s leading teams through complex projects or simply showing up for people in meaningful ways. Alongside my corporate role, I also run a wellness business where I help clients prioritize their health and well-being, further fueling my passion for supporting others. I’m deeply committed to creating a more cohesive, inclusive, and supportive work environment, and I see this union role as a way to continue serving the greater good—by advocating for our people and helping our workplace thrive together.

I've been working with Westjet as a CSA for just under 3 years and in this role, I hope to bring not only my experience, but also a spirit of collaboration, empathy, and action. My goal is to help create a work environment where people feel genuinely supported, where communication is open and respectful, and where we can work together to build a stronger, more unified culture that reflects the best of who we are.

Courtney Paquette, CSA

I have worked at WestJet for 13 years in WestJet's contact centre, Guest Service Ambassador (GSA), Customer Service Agent (CSA) and also as a Guest Service Leader (GSL). It's very important as a union representative to be present and available to our union members.  As a union representative I will be there to support each and everyone of you to the best of my ability.  It is also very important to me that there is clear communication and be able to resolve any disputes in a timely manner.

Carla Ramos, CSA

Hi there! I’m Carla Ramos, YYC CSA for two years and GSL-R for the past year. My work is driven by empathy and purpose. I am passionate about fostering a supportive, inclusive workplace where WestJetters can grow and succeed.

As GSL-R, I see my purpose as uplifting our team, being a welcoming face for new WestJetters, and ensuring our coworkers feel valued. I firmly believe that every WestJetter deserves fair treatment and a safe, inclusive workspace to thrive in. My purpose as Workplace Representative would be rooted in being an approachable presence for each voice to be heard in a nonjudgmental, supportive, and encouraging manner.

Previously, I served as Community Representative for a local coffee roaster where I connected with organizations to produce initiatives that aligned with the spirit of “coffee for good”, crafted weekly internal newsletters, and organized team-building and volunteering events.

My commitment to cultivating a positive workplace culture has been recognized through nominations as Chief Happiness with Rosso Coffee Roasters (2020), and most recently as a President Award nominee with WestJet (2025). Stepping into the role of Workplace Representative is a natural extension of my values where my goals would align with the goals of our team members—because their concerns are my concerns, and their wins are my wins.
Thank you for taking the time to read a little bit about me.

Kristin Hooper, CSA

Candidate did not provide a bio. 

Amrit Singh, CSA

Candidate did not provide a bio.