February 11
th
Hearing Panelist Information and Written Statement
Panel Four: What it’s Like to Work at the Airport
Dana Stewart, Server, Bigfoot Food and Spirits
INFORMATION:
Dana Stewart is an employee at Seattle Tacoma International Airport.
STATEMENT:
Hello, my name is Dana Stewart and I am 22 years old. I am currently working as a pharmacy
technician full time and a part time server for Filo Foods and BF Foods at SeaTac Airport for
over 6 years and I love it. I am looking forward to speaking and being a voice for equal
opportunities within the Port of Seattle.
My career journey at SeaTac started at age 16; I was just a high school student looking for my
first job to provide for my family as well as myself. I applied at many companies, but with no
experience they would not hire me. I went to Port Jobs and looked at the job listings; however,
very few jobs hired at 16 except for Filo Foods. I was hired as a customer service associate. I
was so excited! While attending school I was promoted to shift supervisor, I learned how to do
inventories, ordering and receiving, bank audits and a list of supervisor responsibilities. Because
they are a small business it was easier for them to be flexible with my work schedule. When I
turned 18 I moved to their bar as a food prep. I always had goals to move up to the next step in
my education and career. I believe I worked hard and I was promoted again to lead server. I
looked for opportunities and worked hard for them.
During my whole career I went to school and was given the opportunities to promote within the
company. I attended a medical institute while working and also did my externship. Now 22, I
am a pharmaceutical tech and I still work part time at the airport. I am a non-union worker with
the same or better benefits, which includes paid holidays, vacations, and medical. They also pay
for their employees to attend classes at Port Jobs. I believe not all jobs should pay the same. It
February 11
th
Hearing Panelist Information and Written Statements - Panel Three: What it’s Like to Work at the Airport
Dana Stewart, Server, Bigfoot Food and Spirits
should depend on the training and skills of the employee. I believe if the employer gives you the
opportunity, it’s yours to work for. My wage is almost $30/hour as a server. The airport has lots
of opportunities. I see my job as a starter job. I was given an opportunity for a first job with no
experience. They promote from within. They think education and career goals are important.
They are pretty flexible. They make the working for them fun by having contests and incentives
to encourage us to keep up our good work. I work with a lot of people from different countries,
and they are still learning English. Most employers won’t hire them for any position, but our
employer will give them a chance.
Everybody has to start somewhere and Filo Foods gave me my start. For me the training and
education while working at SeaTac Airport has been the best thing in my life.
