Lori Seemann is the woman behind the scenes who keeps things in motion at the Kelowna International Airport.
As an airport duty manager she works to manage flight delays, changes and cancellations, icy roadways, scheduling, ensures planes have a place to park and organizes passenger and baggage processes.
“Most days there is something different that I will face. That variety is fantastic,” said Seemann.
Seemann starts her day by walking the whole airport facility to identify concerns that need her attention. As you can imagine, her job is demanding and stressful, but Seemann has a different perspective.
“I have the ability to make a difference and help people have a better day,” she said. Rather than dwelling on the issues constantly cropping up Seemann is solution-based and positive.
She meets each problem with a smile and confidence in her team that even if she can’t solve the issue, another member of her staff can.
In many ways, Seemann is the face of the Kelowna airport.
Peak season in mid-December brings in a storm of airline troubles coupled with a sharp increase in travellers. Seemann was down on the ground every day during the holiday chaos, helping passengers find their way.
She brings patience and understanding to each interaction and thrives under the pressure of constant problem-solving.
Often, problems that crop up are outside of her control. Trouble in other cities can spill over into the Kelowna airport but Seemann is nothing but positive and empathetic for her coworkers in the industry. Lost baggage from another airport causes distress when travellers arrive in Kelowna but Seemann is solution-focused and explained with a smile,
“I will be available in the best way I can to help my partners get through any kind of issues that they’re having.”
She leaves people in a better mood than she found them, goes above and beyond to solve any issue, even if it is not specified in her job description.
Seemann said that she loves her job and her coworkers and is proud of the diversity in the industry.
“I want people to know that there is a place for everybody within the aviation airport world. Any type of interest you have can probably fit into this industry. It is a fantastic world to work in,” she said.
According to Seemann, people of all backgrounds are welcome in the aviation industry and because of the unique work environment, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
“Being around people and making a difference is something that I really enjoy,” she said, and it seems like Seemann has truly found her perfect fit.