Screening Officer, Regina International Airport
Connie Klein has been a dedicated screening officer at Regina International Airport (YQR) for 26 years. Connie enjoys working with the CATSA team and after all these years, still enjoys going into work.
"I am very proud of my job."
Connie is a proud grandma to five grandchildren and when she is not spending time with them, she keeps herself busy gardening and doing landscaping.
In recognition of CATSA’s 20th anniversary, we sat down with Connie to hear about her experience as a screening officer.
This is what she shared:
Q: Why did you become a screening officer?
A: My spouse was a screening officer so I thought I would try it and I love it. I like interacting with passengers and non-passengers.
Q: Why do you think being a screening officer is important?
A: I think my job is important because we work to ensure the safety of the travelling public.
Q: What do you find most rewarding about your job?
A: Being helpful to non-passengers and passengers and guiding them through security screening.
Q: What do you think are the skills required to be a screening officer?
A: Screening officers need to have good customer service skills as some passengers need extra care when going through screening. Smiling while dealing with passengers and non-passengers always helps.
Q: What impact do you want to have on passengers after they go through screening with you?
A: My goal is to try to make the screening experience as easy and as enjoyable as possible. I hope they know I’m here for them and will guide them through the screening process and answer any questions. I try to smile as much as possible; I think this has an impact on their experience.
Q: What are some of the most significant changes you have personally experienced over the years with security screening?
A: There have been quite a few changes with screening equipment and the screening procedures, especially after 9/11 happened. For example, when I started as a screening officer, there was only black and white X-ray and now it is in colour. The training program is one of CATSA’s biggest accomplishments.
Q: Can you describe what CATSA means to you on a personal level?
A: CATSA is good to work with and always available to answer questions. I find CATSA employees quite positive.